At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Board to shape Scotland's red meat sector and drive innovation.
- Company: Quality Meat Scotland, a key player in promoting premium Scottish meat.
- Benefits: Receive £221.36 per day plus reimbursement for expenses.
- Other info: Diverse candidates encouraged to apply; commitment to inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability and quality in the food industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in pig production and strategic board skills required.
The predicted salary is between 221 - 221 £ per hour.
OVERVIEW
Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) is the public body supporting Scotland’s red meat sector to improve efficiency, sustainability, integrity and profitability, while maximising its contribution to the national economy. Its internationally recognised assurance schemes cover over 90% of livestock farmed for red meat in Scotland, reflecting a strong heritage and commitment to the highest standards. QMS promotes and protects the Scotch Beef, Scotch Lamb and Prime Scottish Pork brands, communicating the “Scotch Difference” to consumers. Through robust quality assurance and clear branding, it helps build trust and strengthens Scotland’s reputation for premium red meat at home and abroad. Focused on provenance, profitability, sustainability and people, QMS drives market development, innovation and environmental leadership. It supports the entire supply chain - from farm to market - while delivering professional services that protect the industry and enable growth in domestic and international markets.
THE ROLE OF MEMBER
Board members of QMS are appointed entirely on merit, to maintain the mix of skills, knowledge and experience required to allow the Board to successfully fulfil its duties as a Public Body. A board member’s responsibilities include:
- setting the strategic and cultural direction of the organisation;
- providing oversight on issues of strategy, performance and resources;
- monitoring the reporting of performance and holding management to account through purposeful and constructive challenge and scrutiny;
- contributing to decision-making and to the work of board committees and advisory groups;
- acting as “ambassadors” for QMS by communicating clearly and effectively and establishing and promoting the work of QMS in the industry and community.
The operational work of the organisation is delivered by around 35 QMS staff led by the Chief Executive, Sarah Millar.
REMUNERATION AND TIME COMMITMENT
Members receive £221.36 per day. Expenses incurred as a result of carrying out the duties of the appointment, including reasonable travel and subsistence costs and dependant carer and childcare expenses, will be reimbursed. The appointment is non-pensionable. The appointment is for a period of four years. The Board meets six to eight times each year with Members of the Board committed to a maximum of 20 days per year. By the nature of a non-executive role, the time commitment will vary from week to week. It involves a mix of activities including preparing for and attending Board meetings and undertaking other duties and responsibilities such as engaging with stakeholders and occasionally attending events.
QUALIFICATIONS
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
The Minister is seeking to appoint four new Board Members across the two roles outlined below:
- Role 1: Candidates must demonstrate knowledge and experience of pig production (Priority Criterion 1), together with the general board skills set out in Essential Criteria 1-3.
- Role 2: Candidates must demonstrate the general board skills set out in Essential Criteria 1-3.
Priority Criteria
- Knowledge and experience of pig production
Essential Criteria
- Understanding of QMS and the wider Scottish red meat sector
- Ability to contribute effectively to the Board at a strategic level
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with a range of stakeholders
How to Apply
For details on how to apply, please ensure you read pages 9-12 in the Applicant Information Pack. The Pack includes further information on the role and additional details on the criteria being assessed. Completed applications must be submitted by 5pm on Friday 25 September 2026.
ABOUT PUBLIC APPOINTMENTS
Public appointments are made by Scottish Ministers. The appointments process is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.
EQUALITY STATEMENT
Scottish Ministers value highly the benefits of diverse Public Body Boards. People from all walks of life are encouraged to apply for public appointments. Find out more about our commitment to diversity and how we offer and support recruitment adjustments for anyone who needs them. If you have a disability and require an adjustment at any stage of the public appointments process, please get in touch with the Scottish Government, Public Appointments Team by email at public.appointments@gov.scot.
FURTHER INFORMATION
FAQ’s about the application process is here: Public Appointments - Frequently Asked Questions. Guidance to support applicants is here: Public appointments - gov.scot (www.gov.scot). If you experience any difficulties, please contact the Public Appointments Team by email at Public.appointments@gov.scot.
Appointment of Members to the Board of Quality Meat Scotland employer: Scottish Government
The Scottish Government offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, where you can make a significant impact on customer service and safeguarding across Scotland. With a strong focus on employee development and innovation, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working alongside a dedicated team committed to excellence in public service. Join us in shaping a high-performing organisation that values collaboration and strives for transformative results.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Appointment of Members to the Board of Quality Meat Scotland
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We think you need these skills to ace Appointment of Members to the Board of Quality Meat Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, make sure to shine a light on any agriculture-related experience you've got, whether it's from coursework, volunteer work, or hands-on jobs. Don't forget about specific skills like crop management or knowledge of sustainable practices; those are real winners for Scottish Government!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Given the agriculture field, it's vital we understand farming techniques, equipment, and even pest management strategies. Be ready to discuss specific practices you've encountered or used—perhaps your experience with certain crops or technologies in farming.
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✨Flexibility & Commitment—Key for Part-Time Roles
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