North Berwick Trust is a community-focused charity dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents of North Berwick. Led by a Board of charity Trustees with the support of two part-time employees, the Trust works in partnership with others to address community needs and ensure long-term benefits for the town through the North Berwick Forever Fund.

The Trust has significant financial assets which allows it to distribute funding through its grant-giving programme to individuals and organisations that promote recreation, culture, sport, education, lifelong learning, and the conservation of North Berwick’s historic and natural environment. In addition, the Trust develops and maintains 20 hectares of its own land holdings for community use.

With a vision to make North Berwick more sustainable, resilient, vibrant, inclusive, and equitable, the Trust focuses on six strategic aims: enhancing community facilities and opportunities, preserving the town’s heritage and green spaces, supporting those in need, and securing long-term funding for future generations.

Background to the role of Chair

Sir David Tweedie, the current Chair of North Berwick Trust, will step down from his role in the summer after leading the Trust through a very successful period. The Trust now seeks an inspiring and committed successor to lead the Trust through its next phase.

Whilst the Trust manages sizable assets, it remains a small organisation that is very much led by the Chair and Board of charity Trustees who are expected to balance both strategic leadership responsibilities and occasional involvement in day-to-day operations.

In addition to leading the Board of charity Trustees, the role demands sound judgment in managing the various governance issues that may arise between meetings. A key responsibility will be overseeing the Trust’s significant financial investments, ensuring that funds are effectively managed to support both current and future community needs. The position is initially for a three-year tenure.

The Trust is looking for the next Chair to have a close connection to North Berwick, whether through living or working in the area. They will have an understanding of local needs and priorities and have an appreciation of how the Trust can add value to support local causes.

The successful candidate will be an experienced leader, capable of providing clear direction and support to the Board and Trust staff, ensuring that the Trust’s long-term vision is delivered. Acting as the Trust’s ambassador, they will be the external face of the charity attending events, community meetings and social functions ensuring that the good name of the Trust is always promoted.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced chair and/or leader that possesses good intellect and the ability to get on well with people. They will have a decisive but calm and empathetic style demonstrating excellent communication and organisations skills.

For those who share the Trust’s commitment to the North Berwick community and have the necessary leadership experience, this is a great opportunity to help shape its future.