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- Tasks: Join SRUC's Board as a Non-Executive Director, guiding strategic oversight and governance.
- Company: SRUC is a leading institution in the Natural Economy with a rich history and global impact.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in governance; travel expenses covered; contribute to meaningful change.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and research while enhancing diversity and inclusion in leadership.
- Qualifications: Seeking individuals with expertise in finance, risk, equality, and green skills; diverse backgrounds encouraged.
- Other info: Non-remunerated role; commitment of at least 18 days per year; applications close on March 3, 2025.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Background
SRUC is a specialist institution focused on the Natural Economy, with pan-Scotland locations and a global reach. Formed in 2012, but built on a history of over 100 years, we are a young institution with a long heritage. We are quite unlike any other institution, with a tertiary education model (from FE to PhD), a world-class research base, knowledge exchange and consultancy services. Therefore, we are uniquely placed to respond to the global challenges facing us collectively, and we have the strength, courage and audacity to do it.
SRUC is in the top 5 in the UK for studying animal science and agriculture in the Guardian University rankings and, in 2024, it was awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize – the highest form of national recognition open to educational institutions in the UK – for the second time.
About SRUC
SRUC is home to approximately 2500 FE and HE students, 300 master’s students and 100 PhD students undertaking study over a number of courses in the domains of circular economy, planetary health and science society and business. In addition, SRUC delivered short course training to over 3000 individuals in the last year and 600 apprenticeships.
SRUC has an annual turnover of £92.3m and employs approximately 1,100 staff operating from 6 campuses, 8 farms, 24 consulting offices, 6 research centres and 5 veterinary surveillance centres located primarily across Scotland. SRUC’s main purpose is to advance education, science, research and environmental protection and improvement in the rural and land-based industries, both domestically and internationally. The commercial consultancy, and commercially-focused aspects of skills training and some research activities are undertaken through SRUC Innovation Limited.
The Role of Non-Executive Director at SRUC
SRUC is seeking to appoint up to five new Non-Executive Directors, including individuals with the required skills to chair our Finance & Estates and Remuneration & Appointments committees. These appointments would carry the responsibilities of a Company Director and Charity Trustee .
Board Members collectively provide high-level strategic oversight and ensure that adequate control and monitoring arrangements exist to support executive management in exercising proper stewardship and working towards agreed strategic objectives. Board Members are asked to bring their expertise and experience to bear on this work.
The Board is entrusted with funds, both public and private, and has a particular duty to observe the highest standards of corporate governance.
Board Members are expected to develop an understanding of SRUC, its teaching and research mission and internal structure and culture. In addition, members are expected to build understanding of SRUC’s relationships with relevant external agencies and the Scottish and UK higher education systems.
Qualifications and experience required:
Applications are particularly welcomed at this time from individuals with skills and experience in the following areas:
- Audit and Risk
- Finance and Accounting (Chair of Finance & Estates Committee)
- Transformational Change and Implementation
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (Chair of Remuneration & Appointments Committee)
- Green skills, aquaculture, veterinary and food experience as these are areas we are moving into
- Commercialisation and business development
Applications are also invited from individuals who can demonstrate experience and skills in the following areas:
- Communication and Marketing
- Cyber Security
- Digital Transformation
- HEI experience
SRUC is committed to ensuring that the Board represents the community, stakeholders, staff and students and welcomes expressions of interest from all suitably experienced individuals who have the experience and expertise needed to help direct and shape the organisation into the future. Expressions of interest are welcomed from applicants currently underrepresented on the Board who would further enhance its diversity. This includes women, young people, ethnic minorities, and those with disabilities.
Fees and Terms
Appointments will be made for a period of 3 years with the possibility of extension for a further three years subject to a satisfactory appraisal. This post is non-remunerated. Travel and subsistence expenses are reimbursed.
Time to be committed to SRUC business is expected to be at least 18 days per annum, which includes four Board meetings a year, one strategy session.
Application Process
Further details about these roles and full instruction on how to apply can be found in the Candidate Brief document which is downloadable from the link on the SRUC website job advert. You must read this document fully before applying.
If you are reading this advert on the SRUC website, please do not apply using the web link on the page, please email your application (CV, covering letter and equal opportunities form) to:
George Houliston, Recruitment Manager at:
To reach the SRUC website page from a non-SRUC website please click the APPLY button on the advert which will take you to the SRUC website job advert.
Closing Date:
The closing date for all applications is noon on Monday 3rd March 2025.
Interviews:
If selected, interviews will be conducted in person in Edinburgh on Tuesday 25th March or Friday 28th March 2025
At the heart of the natural economy
SRUC is a company limited by guarantee (SC103046) and is a registered Scottish charity (SC003712). SRUC Innovation Ltd (SC148684) is an SRUC company. Registered Office: Peter Wilson Building, King’s Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG
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SRUC Non-Executive Director employer: Scotland's Rural College
Contact Detail:
Scotland's Rural College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SRUC Non-Executive Director
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with SRUC's mission and values. Understanding our commitment to education, research, and environmental protection will help you align your expertise with our goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current and former board members or stakeholders in the higher education sector. Building these connections can provide insights into the board's dynamics and expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in areas like finance, governance, or diversity. Highlighting specific examples of how you've contributed to similar organizations can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in the natural economy and higher education. Demonstrating your knowledge of these topics during interviews will show your commitment to SRUC's future direction.
We think you need these skills to ace SRUC Non-Executive Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Non-Executive Director at SRUC. Familiarize yourself with the strategic oversight and governance aspects required for this position.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in areas such as finance, audit, risk management, or any other skills mentioned in the job description. Make sure to align your qualifications with the specific needs of SRUC.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the natural economy and how your background aligns with SRUC's mission. Be sure to mention any experience you have that relates to the areas of expertise they are seeking.
Follow Application Instructions: Carefully read the Candidate Brief document and follow the application instructions precisely. Ensure you submit your CV, covering letter, and equal opportunities form via email to the specified contact.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scotland's Rural College
✨Understand SRUC's Mission
Before the interview, take time to familiarize yourself with SRUC's mission and values. Understanding their focus on the natural economy and their commitment to education, research, and environmental protection will help you align your responses with their goals.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your experience in areas such as finance, audit, or transformational change. Provide specific examples of how your skills can contribute to the strategic oversight and governance of SRUC.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Diversity
SRUC values diversity on its Board. Be ready to share your thoughts on equality, diversity, and inclusion, and how you can help enhance the Board's representation of various communities and stakeholders.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about SRUC's future challenges and opportunities, especially in areas like green skills and digital transformation. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organization.
