At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance and strategic direction for a respected housing and care organisation.
- Company: Viewpoint Housing Association, dedicated to supporting older people in Scotland.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with reasonable expenses reimbursed and impactful leadership experience.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant personal and professional growth in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of an organisation committed to independence and dignity for older people.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience with strong governance and strategic thinking skills.
For more than 75 years, Viewpoint Housing Association has delivered high-quality housing, care and support services for older people across Edinburgh, the Lothians and Fife. Today, it owns and manages over 1,300 properties and operates two care homes in central Edinburgh, maintaining a strong commitment to helping people live independently, safely and with dignity.
As part of its planned Board succession, Viewpoint is seeking to appoint an exceptional Vice Chair (Chair Designate). Working alongside the current Chair during a planned transition period, the successful candidate will gain a detailed understanding of the organisation, its governance, culture and strategic priorities before assuming the role of Chair in 2027.
This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in the governance of one of Scotland's most respected housing and care organisations. Working closely with fellow Board members and the Executive Team, the Vice Chair will support the continued delivery of Viewpoint's strategic ambitions while helping to shape the organisation's long-term future. The Board is committed to ensuring Viewpoint adapts to changing customer needs and the wider operating environment.
The successful candidate will support the Board in assessing future strategic opportunities across housing, care and support services, enabling sustainable growth while keeping Viewpoint financially resilient, values-led and focused on excellent service delivery. This is an opportunity to provide experienced, strategic leadership to a capable and ambitious Executive Leadership Team. The successful candidate will bring sound judgement, perspective, and the ability to support, mentor and constructively challenge senior leaders, helping the organisation build on its strong foundations while preparing for the opportunities ahead.
About You
We are looking for an experienced, collaborative leader with the credibility, judgement and strategic perspective to guide an ambitious organisation through its next stage of development. You will bring a broad organisational perspective, combining strong governance with strategic thinking and commercial awareness. Confident at Board level, you will be able to support and constructively challenge an ambitious Executive Leadership Team, helping Viewpoint achieve its long-term goals.
You may already have experience as a Chair or Non-Executive Director, or you may be a senior executive seeking your first Chair appointment. You will be able to demonstrate:
- Significant executive and/or non-executive leadership experience.
- A track record of leading strategic growth, business transformation or organisational change.
- Experience contributing to organisational growth, transformation or strategic development.
- Strong governance, commercial and financial awareness.
- The ability to think strategically while maintaining a holistic view of organisational performance.
- Outstanding communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills.
- A collaborative, inclusive and values-led leadership style.
- A genuine commitment to the values and purpose of Viewpoint.
Whilst experience within housing, care or the wider public or third sectors would be advantageous, we also welcome applications from leaders who have successfully guided organisations through periods of strategic change, growth or diversification in other sectors.
Time Commitment
The Board meets approximately eight times per year, with additional time required for preparation, Board development activities and occasional stakeholder engagement. This is a voluntary appointment, although reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
Further Information
For a confidential discussion, please contact Nigel Fortnum or Paul Rooney at Aspen People on 0141 212 7555 or email enquiries@aspenpeople.co.uk.
Closing date: Monday 24th August
First interview date: Thursday 3rd September
Final interview date: Monday 21st September
Board meeting: Wednesday 23rd September
Vice-Chair (Chair Designate) employer: Aspen People
Aspen People is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment in Cumnock, Scotland, where you can make a meaningful impact on housing and community well-being. With a commitment to employee growth and development, we provide opportunities for professional advancement while fostering a collaborative culture that values diverse perspectives. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that prioritises both organizational success and tenant satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice-Chair (Chair Designate)
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We think you need these skills to ace Vice-Chair (Chair Designate)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like Aspen People, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Aspen People
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Dive deep into the mission of Aspen People and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
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Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
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