At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Board to lead transformative change in Scotland's education and skills sector.
- Company: The Scottish Funding Council invests in a world-class tertiary education system for over half a million learners.
- Benefits: Earn £366.65 per day for 3 days a month, with expenses reimbursed.
- Other info: Interviews will be held virtually; diverse applicants are encouraged to apply.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives and drive positive change in education.
- Qualifications: Experience in leadership, financial stewardship, or education transformation is essential.
The predicted salary is between 10000 - 15000 £ per year.
The Minister for Higher and Further Education and Veterans seeks to appoint four highly experienced and passionate leaders to the Board of the Scottish Funding Council. In doing so, the Minister recognises the wealth of expertise and knowledge across all communities and sectors and welcomes applications representing the diversity in Scotland.
The Scottish Funding Council (SFC) is investing in Scotland’s future. If you have a desire to make a significant difference in the lives of students and are passionate about driving transformative change and improvement across our post-school education and skills sector, providing leadership, guidance and assurance across SFC and the sector, you are encouraged to apply for this important role.
With the Scottish Government having embarked upon a 10-year transformational journey of the post-school education and skills landscape, this is an exciting and unique time to join SFC. The Scottish Funding Council is a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) responsible to Scottish Ministers for developing and sustaining a world-leading system of tertiary education, research, innovation and skills. Scotland is home to one of the world’s most respected and advanced post-school education sectors with over half a million learners participating in diverse programmes across our 43 colleges and universities every year. This system is key to delivering the economic transformation that will improve the lives of individuals and communities across Scotland while also enhancing our global reach and impact.
The role of the Board is to provide leadership, direction, support and guidance and ensure the SFC delivers and is committed to delivering its functions effectively and efficiently and in accordance with the aims, policies and priorities of the Scottish Ministers. As a member of the SFC Board, you will play a leading role in ensuring SFC supports Scottish Ministers’ reform priorities, and that change is promoted positively within the organisation and the post-school sector. You will play a role in leading SFC through a period of change, driving cultural change and transformation as SFC takes on additional functions.
Responsibilities:
- Ensuring that the public body delivers its functions in accordance with Scottish Ministers’ policies and priorities.
- Providing strategic leadership.
- Ensuring financial stewardship.
- Holding the Chief Executive and senior management team to account.
Scottish Ministers welcome applications from people from a wide range of backgrounds who have the following skills/knowledge/experience:
At Least One Of The Following Priority Criteria:- Knowledge and senior leadership experience of the role of the post-school education and skills system and its impact on the economy and society.
- Knowledge and experience of high-level financial stewardship in relation to organisations of scale and complexity.
- Knowledge and experience of research and innovation, and its role in driving economic growth.
- Knowledge and experience of business and industry in Scotland or across the UK and of developing and implementing sector change or transformation.
- Knowledge and experience of apprenticeships and workplace learning.
Applicants must also provide evidence of the following essential criteria:
- Ability to work as an effective Board member through working collaboratively with influence.
- Experience of managing performance.
- Experience of managing organisational change and transformation.
- Ability to champion equality and diversity at Board level.
Public appointments are made by Scottish Ministers. The appointments process is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.
The position is for 3 days per month and will be remunerated at £366.65 for every day of not less than 7.5 hours devoted to performing your functions (as required or requested by the Board) on a pro rata basis, up to a maximum total fee of £13,199.40 per financial year. Remuneration is non-pensionable and reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
Board and Committee meetings are held in person and via Microsoft Teams. Some Board meetings are held at institutions across Scotland.
Interviews will be held week commencing 11 August 2025 and will be conducted virtually over Microsoft Teams. It is unlikely that we will be able to offer alternative interview dates.
Download the candidate information pack. This will explain more about the role, the board and the application process. You will be asked to upload a supporting statement that evidences at least one of the priority and all the essential criteria. This must be no more than 300 words for each criterion you are addressing. You must include this in order to apply for this role. You will be asked to upload a tailored career life/history. You must include this in order to apply for this role. Completed applications must be received on or before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 15 July 2025.
Scottish Ministers value highly the benefits of diverse Public Body Boards. People from all walks of life are encouraged to apply for public appointments.
Appointment of Members to the Board of the Scottish Funding Council employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
The Scottish Funding Council (SFC) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to influence the future of Scotland's post-school education and skills sector. With a commitment to diversity and transformative change, SFC fosters a collaborative work culture that values leadership and innovation, providing members with the chance to make a meaningful impact on communities across Scotland. As part of a forward-thinking organisation, you will benefit from professional growth opportunities while contributing to a vital mission that enhances the lives of learners and supports economic development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Appointment of Members to the Board of the Scottish Funding Council
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Scottish Funding Council's current initiatives and priorities. Understanding their strategic goals will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their mission during discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former board members of the SFC or similar organisations. Engaging in conversations with them can provide valuable insights into the role and expectations, as well as potential opportunities to showcase your interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in managing change. Given the emphasis on transformation within the SFC, being able to share specific examples of how you've successfully led change initiatives will be crucial.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your commitment to diversity and inclusion in your conversations. The SFC values diverse perspectives, so be ready to discuss how you have championed these principles in your previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Appointment of Members to the Board of the Scottish Funding Council
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and criteria for the Board position at the Scottish Funding Council. Familiarise yourself with the role's expectations and how your experience aligns with them.
Tailor Your Supporting Statement:When writing your supporting statement, address at least one of the priority criteria and all essential criteria. Use specific examples from your experience to demonstrate how you meet these requirements, ensuring each example is no more than 300 words.
Craft a Compelling Career History:Your career history should be tailored to highlight relevant experiences that showcase your leadership skills and knowledge in the post-school education sector. Focus on achievements that align with the role's responsibilities and the SFC's mission.
Follow Application Instructions:Carefully read the 'How to Apply' section in the candidate information pack. Ensure you upload all required documents, including your supporting statement and tailored career history, before the deadline of 12.00 noon on Tuesday 15 July 2025.
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the role of a Board member at the Scottish Funding Council. Familiarise yourself with their mission, values, and current initiatives, especially regarding the transformational journey in post-school education.
✨Demonstrate Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your experience related to the priority criteria outlined in the job description. Be ready to provide specific examples of how your leadership has positively impacted education, financial stewardship, or organisational change.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Skills
As a Board member, collaboration is key. Be prepared to share instances where you've worked effectively with others to achieve common goals, particularly in diverse teams. Highlight your ability to influence and champion equality and diversity.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the SFC's future direction, challenges they face, and how you can contribute. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
