At a Glance
- Tasks: Connect and facilitate governance processes across the organisation with precision and attention to detail.
- Company: The Royal Society of Edinburgh, Scotland’s National Academy, dedicated to knowledge and collaboration.
- Benefits: Inclusive culture, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a growing team committed to making knowledge useful and supporting Scotland's future.
- Why this job: Be the glue that holds our governance together and work with inspiring leaders.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, experience in secretariat support, and excellent communication abilities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) is Scotland’s National Academy. Through the expertise of our Fellowship and the work of our staff, we bring together knowledge, ideas, and people to help address the most important issues facing Scotland and the wider world. Our Fellowship of over 1,800 individuals spans academia, business, public service, the arts, and civil society. Alongside this, the RSE delivers a wide-ranging programme of research support, policy advice, public engagement, and international collaboration. We are a collaborative, purpose‑driven organisation with a strong commitment to supporting our people and promoting a positive and inclusive working culture.
Our small team is about to become a wee bit bigger. You may spot several roles advertised across the RSE this summer. These opportunities reflect investment in our people and future priorities as we grow our ambition to make knowledge useful.
About the role
We are looking for an agile, organised Governance Officer to be the glue that connects and facilitates complex moving parts across our organisation. Working closely with colleagues and committee Convenors, you will ensure our governance is translated into efficient, fit‑for‑purpose processes with absolute attention to detail. This is a varied role where you will develop and manage robust governance processes and maintain the annual governance calendar to keep actions and timelines on track. You will ensure our committees run seamlessly by providing secretariat support to several committees, from preparing agendas to capturing actions. You will also coordinate the rolling recruitment of new members and support their induction and onboarding, ensuring all processes are delivered efficiently and in accordance with RSE Laws and Standing Orders.
About you
You will bring:
- Strong organisational and coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple interlinked committees and maintain a complex governance calendar
- Proven experience delivering high quality secretariat support, including agenda planning, paper coordination, minute‑taking, and action tracking
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, with confidence working closely with senior leaders, committee Convenors, and cross‑functional colleagues
- A proactive and detail‑oriented approach to managing timelines ensuring deadlines are met and governance processes run smoothly
- The ability to manage cyclical processes (e.g. committee member recruitment, governance timelines, business planning) with a focus on continuous improvement
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to keep stakeholders informed and coordinate across teams.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives on bringing structure and clarity to complex processes, enjoys working collaboratively with senior stakeholders, and takes pride in delivering high‑quality governance support with precision and attention to detail.
How to apply
To apply, please complete the online application via BreatheHR. At the document upload stage, please ensure you provide both required documents:
- A CV (maximum two A4 pages) outlining your relevant skills and experience
- A cover letter (maximum one A4 page) setting out your suitability for the role and your interest in working at the RSE
Applications must be submitted by 23:59 on Monday 22 June. Interviews for this role will take place on Thursday 2 July at the RSE in Edinburgh. Please note that the RSE is not in the position to sponsor work or student visas. Pre‑employment screening will include the necessary right to work in the UK checks as well as reference checks.
Governance Officer employer: Royal Society of Edinburgh
The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and purpose-driven work environment that values inclusivity and employee growth. With a commitment to supporting our staff, RSE provides opportunities for professional development while engaging in meaningful projects that address critical issues facing Scotland and beyond. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, employees benefit from a vibrant cultural scene and the chance to work alongside a diverse Fellowship of experts across various fields.
Contact Details:
Royal Society of Edinburgh Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Governance Officer
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We think you need these skills to ace Governance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Society of Edinburgh
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