At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Board to lead community-focused initiatives and drive positive change.
- Company: Almond Housing Association, a values-driven organisation in West Lothian.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with travel expenses reimbursed and training provided.
- Other info: Exciting growth opportunities and a chance to influence strategic direction.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local communities and help shape housing development.
- Qualifications: Passion for community service and relevant experience in governance or related fields.
Board vacancies: Almond Housing Association and Almond Enterprises Limited. Do you have the passion and drive to make a positive difference to tenants and communities, and lead the largest West Lothian based Housing Association on its journey from good to great? Almond Housing Association is based in Livingston and has exciting opportunities for the right individuals to join its Board of Management. We also have positions available on the Board of our subsidiary company, Almond Enterprises Limited. These are voluntary roles with no financial remuneration; however, travel expenses will be reimbursed.
Almond Housing Association owns over 2,500 properties, 655 garages, and delivers a factoring service for 176 properties. With a rental income of more than £14m and over 45 employees, Almond HA is a values-driven organisation with a mission to deliver ‘homes, people and communities to be proud of’. We are looking for enthusiastic, community-minded and suitably skilled individuals to join our Board of Management, which is responsible for overall governance and financial management, business development and growth, investment in housing, related services and its people.
This is an exciting time to join us as we embark on the development and delivery of an ambitious Development and Regeneration strategy which will result in the replacement of some of our older, less efficient & less desirable homes with new homes. Our approach will also provide the opportunity to realise the wider community benefits that a regeneration programme brings. Commitment and relevant experience are valued as much as knowledge and qualifications. The successful applicant will be required to work with fellow Board members and the senior team and have an ability to grasp complex issues quickly, make considered and informed decisions and have the ability to challenge constructively in a Board environment.
Applicants will be required to demonstrate ability and a proven track record in their chosen profession or other relevant experience. To complement the existing range of expertise on the Board and to fill recent vacancies, we would be particularly keen to hear from applicants that have professional or personal experience in the following areas, supporting our 5-year Business Plan 2025-30:
- Development and regeneration
- Audit and financial planning
Skills and experience in the following areas would also be welcomed:
- Digital – technical aspects and cyber security
Almond HA Board members are expected to attend six in-person evening meetings during the year, and two strategy meetings at our Livingston office. Additionally, Board members are expected to undertake relevant training from time to time. An Induction programme, training and Board ‘buddy’ will be provided. The successful applicants will join the Board to fill recent casual vacancies that have arisen.
Almond Enterprises Limited (AEL) is seeking Board Members from candidates with a keen interest in driving the strategic direction and growth of the organisation to maximise its benefit to the local community. This is a voluntary role with no financial remuneration; however, travel expenses will be reimbursed. AEL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Almond HA, and is an established social enterprise, working for over fifteen years to provide cleaning and environmental services throughout West Lothian.
Much has been achieved by AEL since its inception; however, we recognise that it has the ability and resources to do much more. As a subsidiary of Almond HA, it can deliver real impact within the community and assist the parent company in achieving the aims of its community impact strategy. The subsidiary receives support from the Almond HA Board and senior management team. Almond HA delivers large programmes of planned and cyclical maintenance works and there is significant opportunity for AEL to deliver additional workstreams. We are also keen to create training and employability opportunities for our local communities. AEL is a Real Living Wage employer, and it is proposed that as the scope of services increase, the terms and conditions offered to the team will be enhanced.
The Board member role represents an exciting opportunity to help lead AEL through a period of significant growth as it looks to realise its significant potential and increase its considerable positive impact within West Lothian. Commitment, enthusiasm and relevant experience are valuable assets. We would welcome all applications and particularly from those with knowledge or experience in the following areas which will help deliver our three-year Business Plan:
- Managing and delivering property related services
- Finance
- Legal
- Third sector knowledge
Ideally, we are looking for individuals with an appetite and drive to help AEL increase its activity and range of services. We would love to hear from you if you think you can bring added value, experience, and leadership to the Board. Previous experience as a Board member is not required as induction and training will be provided. The Board currently meets remotely twice each year and twice in person. Meetings take place in the early evening.
More information can be found on our website, including a detailed Board Recruitment Pack and access to our Recruitment Portal. To apply, please upload your CV and cover letter to our Recruitment Portal, detailing which Board you would like to apply for, why you are interested in joining and any experience you have that would support or enhance our work. If you would like a confidential informal discussion, please contact John Davidson, Chief Executive by phoning 01506 439291. Closing date for applications: Wednesday 18th February.
Board Members in Livingston employer: Housing co
Almond Housing Association is an exceptional employer, dedicated to making a positive impact in the community of Livingston. With a strong focus on values-driven governance and employee development, the organisation offers unique opportunities for Board Members to contribute to meaningful projects that enhance local housing and community services. The supportive work culture, commitment to training, and the chance to be part of an ambitious regeneration strategy make Almond HA a rewarding place to volunteer and grow professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Board Members in Livingston
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
Start connecting with local nonprofits or social impact projects in your area. Attend their events, offer to help out with community initiatives, or just drop by to chat about their mission. This way, you’ll not only learn about the work they do but also make meaningful connections that could lead to volunteer opportunities.
✨Leverage Social Media for Social Impact
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are goldmines for discovering volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Follow organisations you’re passionate about, engage with their posts, and keep an eye out for their volunteer calls. It’s a great way to show your interest and dedication!
✨Utilise Volunteer Matching Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch or local community boards are perfect for finding short-term and long-term volunteer roles. These platforms can connect you with causes that align with your passions and skills, and often allow you to browse opportunities tailored to your interests.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
We think you need these skills to ace Board Members in Livingston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like Housing co, 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.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at Housing co.
How to prepare for a job interview at Housing co
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of Housing co 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.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
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.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!