West Highland Way Trust
West Highland Way Trust

Charity registered in Scotland SC053704

The West Highland Way Trust has been established to fund and support the essential work – carried out by the West Highland Way Management Group, communities and other stakeholders along the trail - that keeps the trail safe, sustainable, and spectacular. From drainage and bridge repairs to signage renewal and discreet path engineering, the Trust will help fund projects to ensure the route remains accessible while retaining its wild, natural feel. By working with the local authorities, communities and volunteers who have cared for the Way since it opened in 1980, the Trust channels public support into practical action. Its mission is simple: to protect the West Highland Way for today’s walkers and for generations to come.

Current vacancies

Top job! Director

  • Full time
  • Circa £52,000
  • Hybrid/Remote: Scotland
  • Closing 25th May 2026

The West Highland Way Trust is a newly established Scottish charity with responsibility for championing, supporting and sustaining one of Scotland’s most iconic long-distance routes. Working in partnership with public bodies, communities and businesses, the Trust aims to support collaborative work with Access Authorities to care for trail whilst safeguarding the route’s environment and heritage while maximising its social, economic and community benefits.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Director to lead the day-to-day development and operation of the Trust during its formative phase.

This is a senior, hands-on leadership role, working closely with and supported by the Board of Trustees. The postholder will act as the Trust’s main delivery lead and public point of contact, supporting the Board in shaping the Trust’s vision and strategy, establishing robust operational systems, and delivering business development and fundraising activity.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Leading the day-to-day operation and set-up of the Trust
  • Supporting the Board with strategy development, governance and reportin
  • Developing and overseeing the delivery of fundraising and income generation plans
  • Building strong relationships with communities, businesses and partners along the route
  • Managing suppliers, consultants and freelance support
  • Overseeing communications, engagement and organisational development

About you

You will bring senior-level experience in the charity, public or community sector, with a strong track record in organisational development, fundraising or partnership working. You will be comfortable working with Trustees, operating independently in a start-up environment, and representing the organisation with credibility and confidence.

Experience of place-based, environmental, heritage, access or tourism-related work would be advantageous as will experience commercial or sponsorship.

  • What we offer
  • Competitive salary
  • Generous annual leave and pension contribution
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • A unique opportunity to shape and lead a nationally significant charity at an exciting stage of development

Looking for more information?

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact the Chair, Stuart Mearns via trustee@westhighlandwaytrust.org. You can also find more information about us on our website westhighlandwaytrust.org and on the official West Highland Way website westhighlandway.org

Shortlist

Funding and Membership Manager

  • Part time
  • £32,000 – £36,000 pro-rata
  • Hybrid/Remote: Scotland
  • Closing 25th May 2026

The West Highland Way Trust is a new Scottish charity established to support the long-term sustainability, promotion and stewardship of the West Highland Way. We work collaboratively with partners, communities and stakeholders to ensure the route continues to deliver environmental, social and economic benefit.

As the Trust enters its next phase of development, we are seeking to grow a strong and engaged membership base and build sustainable income streams to support the future care of Scotland’s most iconic long-distance trail.

About the role

We are looking for an enthusiastic and driven Funding and Membership Manager to lead the development, delivery and growth of the West Highland Way Trust’s membership and fundraising activity.

This is a pivotal role within a small and ambitious organisation. You will be responsible for growing individual, corporate and international membership, developing fundraising campaigns, and ensuring an excellent supporter experience. Working closely with the Trust’s Director and Board of Trustees, you will help embed recurring income streams that underpin the Trust’s long-term sustainability.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Developing and delivering a membership growth and retention strategy
  • Leading fundraising campaigns and individual giving initiatives
  • Managing supporter data, CRM systems and Gift Aid processes
  • Delivering high-quality communications to members and donors
  • Supporting website maintenance and social media content
  • Building relationships with corporate supporters and partners
  • Monitoring income performance and reporting to supporters, parters and Trustees

About you

You will have experience in membership development, fundraising or supporter engagement, with a track record of meeting targets and building strong supporter relationships. You will be confident using CRM systems, analysing data and delivering engaging communications.

You will be proactive, organised and motivated by the opportunity to grow income in a developing charity. An interest in outdoor access, conservation, sustainable tourism or Scotland’s landscapes would be highly advantageous.

Experience within a charity, conservation, heritage or tourism setting would be beneficial, as would experience of corporate partnerships or digital fundraising.

What we offer

  • Competitive salary
  • Employer pension contribution
  • Generous annual leave entitlement
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • The opportunity to shape and grow membership for a nationally significant charity at an early stage of its journey
  • A meaningful role supporting the long-term care of the West Highland Way

Looking for more information?

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact trustee@westhighlandwaytrust.org. You can also find more information about us on our website westhighlandwaytrust.org and on the official West Highland Way website westhighlandway.org.

Shortlist