Walking Scotland is Scotland’s walking and wheeling charity. Walking and wheeling are the most affordable and practical ways to help solve some of Scotland’s biggest challenges, from health inequalities to the climate-nature emergencies.

We promote the benefits of walking and wheeling on our physical, social, and mental health. Our programmes connect communities and inspire positive behaviour change. We also improve places and spaces to walk and wheel.

A key element of this work involves the delivery of our walking programmes, and we are seeking a senior leader who can inspire and develop our approach to this work. Our programme settings are based on national and international evidence of what works best to support people to become more active with walking and wheeling being one of the best ways to achieve this

So, as a potential candidate for this new post:

• Are you able to take a leading role by managing our walking programme teams to deliver on our commitments?
• Are you able to build, manage and nurture highly effective relationships, influencing key stakeholders, partner organisations and funders to increase walking opportunities in Scotland?
• Can you demonstrate competency as a senior leader and contribute meaningfully to a Senior Leadership Team?.
• Are you adaptable and resilient and able to anticipate challenges and developing plans to solve them?

You will work closely with the Chief Executive Officer and Senior Leadership Team to champion and deliver Walking Scotland’s Mission, Strategy, and Plans. You will also lead a multidisciplinary team to drive forward Walking Scotland’s key objectives within the programme settings.

We offer the opportunity to be part of an organisation that recognises staff as our most valued asset. Attractive employment conditions include a contributory pension scheme and flexi-time policy.

HTSI brings together a wide range of community groups, charities, and social enterprises. We work collaboratively with five local delivery partners to ensure that the needs of our communities—spanning an area larger than Wales—are met with innovation, partnership, and integrity.

HTSI continues its ambition to be a catalyst for positive change, investing in the strength and resilience of the Third Sector through knowledge sharing, capacity building, partnership, and a steadfast commitment to ensuring our sector’s voice is heard in policy, planning, and service delivery. Our work and impact rest on a team that values expertise, creativity, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact. We foster an inclusive, respectful, and empowering working environment, where staff are encouraged to develop professionally, contribute ideas, and take on responsibility.

We are now seeking an inspiring leader who shares our values and vision. The ideal candidate will bring strategic insight, excellent communication skills, and a proven ability to build strong, collaborative relationships. You will be comfortable advocating for the Third Sector at both local and national levels, engaging with policy forums, and championing the interests of our diverse communities. We are looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic and challenging environment, who demonstrates flexibility, resilience, and the ability to listen as well as lead. Your leadership will be instrumental in shaping progressive change, securing sustainable funding, and nurturing community-led solutions for the Highlands and beyond.

If you are passionate about driving real and lasting impact, and have the experience and vision to take HTSI forward, we warmly invite your application for this pivotal role.

highlandtsi.org.uk/vacancies

Full details are available in the recruitment pack below.

About Tay and Earn Trust:

Tay and Earn Trust is a Scottish registered charity, established in June 2013, dedicated to the conservation, sustainable management and enjoyment of the River Tay and River Earn catchments and the communities connected to them.

Rooted in one of Scotland’s most significant river systems, the Trust works to protect and enhance the natural environment while supporting people to engage with, learn from and benefit sustainably from these landscapes. Their work spans environmental conservation, education, community development and wellbeing, reflecting the interconnected nature of healthy rivers, resilient communities and sustainable futures.

At the heart of the Trust’s mission is the conservation, regeneration and improvement of the environment, flora, fauna and fish associated with the Tay and Earn river systems. They promote responsible stewardship of these natural assets, supporting research and practical action that contribute to long-term ecological health and biodiversity.

The Role of CEO:

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will have overall responsibility for the strategic, operational, and cultural leadership of Tay and Earn Trust, ensuring the organisation is financially sustainable, well-governed, and delivering high-quality, impactful projects across its catchment.

You will lead the development and delivery of the Trust’s long-term strategy and business plans, translating vision into measurable outcomes and ensuring alignment with the Inner Tay Masterplan. As the Trust’s senior executive, you will secure and diversify income, strengthen partnerships, and oversee the delivery of major capital and community projects. Acting as the Trust’s principal ambassador, you will build strong relationships with funders, local authorities, statutory bodies, and community stakeholders to raise the Trust’s profile and influence.

This is a dynamic leadership role where strategic thinking, operational expertise, and exceptional relationship management are critical. You will provide robust governance, compliance, and risk oversight, supporting Trustees in fulfilling their statutory duties while maintaining high standards of transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance. You will also lead a small senior management team, establishing a positive, inclusive, and values-driven organisational culture while ensuring staff wellbeing, professional development, and accountability.

The Trust are seeking a candidate with proven experience in senior leadership within a charity, public, or mission-led organisation. You will bring a strong track record in developing and delivering multi-year strategies, managing complex projects, and securing a diverse range of funding. You will be confident operating in a regulated environment, with a deep understanding of charity governance, risk management, and compliance. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are essential, with the ability to build credibility with Trustees, partners, funders, and stakeholders, and to inspire, motivate, and develop staff across the organisation.

The successful candidate will be a visible and effective ambassador for the Trust, capable of strengthening strategic partnerships and advancing the Trust’s impact in the Tay and Earn catchments. This is a unique opportunity to lead a passionate team, shape the delivery of transformative projects, and make a lasting difference to the communities and environments served by Tay and Earn Trust.