At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead business development and enhance operational efficiency at Paddle Scotland.
- Company: Join Paddle Scotland, a forward-thinking organisation in the sports sector.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Embrace a diverse and inclusive culture while shaping strategic direction.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on Paddle Scotland's future and member experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in business operations, finance, and team leadership required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.
Paddle Scotland is entering an exciting new phase of development and are looking to appoint a Head of Business Development to join our Senior Leadership Team.
The Opportunity
This is a pivotal role that will help shape how Paddle Scotland operates as a modern, high-performing organisation, ensuring we have the systems, structures and financial sustainability in place to deliver our ambitions. While the role has a clear remit for commercial development and income generation, the initial focus will be on strengthening our operational foundations. This includes leading on business operations, financial management, governance, and organisational systems to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and member experience. Working closely with the CEO and Board, you will play a central role in both day-to-day organisational leadership and long-term strategic development.
About the Role
The role will focus on:
- Providing strategic and operational leadership across business operations, finance, governance and systems
- Strengthen organisational effectiveness through improved processes, systems and ways of working
- Lead on financial planning, budgeting, reporting and oversight, working with external providers
- Contribute to organisational strategy as part of the Senior Leadership Team
- Develop and deliver a commercial and income generation approach to support long-term sustainability
- Support and grow commercial opportunities, including Paddle Scotland’s facilities and partnerships
- Lead and develop a small team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture
- Build strong relationships with Board members, partners, funders and stakeholders
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for a strategic, collaborative and hands‑on leader who is as comfortable improving internal systems and operations as they are identifying opportunities for growth. You will bring:
- Strong experience in business operations, finance, or organisational leadership, with a track record of delivering impact
- Experience of developing systems, improving processes, and embedding effective governance
- Confidence in financial management, including budgeting and reporting
- The ability to translate strategy into practical delivery
- Experience of leading and developing teams
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with senior stakeholders, including Boards or partners
- A commercial mindset, with the ability to identify and support income generation opportunities
- Experience in sport, membership organisations, or the not-for-profit sector is welcome but not essential.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to play a key leadership role in the development of the future of Paddle Scotland where you can make a visible and lasting impact. You’ll help shape not just our strategy, but how we operate day‑to‑day, enabling our wider team to deliver for our members and the sport.
Additional Information
- Hybrid working with travel across Scotland as required
- Occasional evening or weekend work may be required
Paddle Scotland is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk. We expect all staff to share this commitment. Paddle Scotland is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
How to Apply
For full details about the role, please review the Role Description and Person Specification. To apply for this role, please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the position to hr@paddlescotland.org.uk. Your covering letter should clearly demonstrate how your skills, experience and approach align with the requirements of the role.
Closing date: 23:59 on Sunday 17 May 2026
Interviews: Expected to take place during the week commencing Monday 25 May 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications, so early application is encouraged.
Equality and Diversity Statement
Paddle Scotland is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, identities, and experiences.
Head of Business Development employer: Paddle Scotland
Paddle Scotland is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity to lead and shape the future of a dynamic organisation dedicated to promoting paddle sports across Scotland. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, we foster a collaborative work culture that values innovation and employee growth, providing hybrid working options and the chance to make a tangible impact on our community. Join us in this pivotal role where your strategic vision will not only enhance our operational foundations but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of Paddle Scotland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Business Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and engage with Paddle Scotland's community. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Paddle Scotland thoroughly, understand their mission, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see you shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've improved processes or led teams in the past. We love hearing about real impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates who want to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Business Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Business Development role. Highlight your experience in business operations and financial management, as these are key areas for us. Use specific examples that demonstrate your impact and how you can contribute to Paddle Scotland's goals.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Clearly outline how your skills and experiences align with the job description. We want to see your passion for improving systems and driving income generation, so don’t hold back on sharing your vision for the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:As a pivotal leader, it’s important to convey your leadership style in your application. Share examples of how you've led teams and improved processes in previous roles. We’re looking for someone who can foster a collaborative culture, so let that shine through!
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We encourage early applications as we may close the vacancy if we receive a high volume of suitable candidates. Plus, applying early gives you a better chance to stand out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Paddle Scotland
✨Know Your Numbers
As the Head of Business Development, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets and financial planning in previous roles. This will show that you can handle the financial responsibilities of the position.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Mindset
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've translated strategy into practical outcomes. Think about times when you've improved processes or systems in your past roles. This will highlight your ability to contribute to Paddle Scotland's long-term strategic development.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role involves working closely with the CEO, Board, and various stakeholders, be prepared to talk about your experience in building strong relationships. Share examples of how you've collaborated with senior stakeholders to achieve common goals, as this will be crucial for success in this position.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership
You'll be leading a small team, so it's important to convey your leadership style. Prepare to discuss how you've fostered a collaborative culture in previous roles and how you plan to support and grow your team at Paddle Scotland. This will demonstrate your commitment to developing a high-performing environment.
