Students have recently reshaped our democratic structures through the Democracy Review. At the same time, the University is moving from four Schools to three Faculties. As academic structures change, our representation systems must align clearly and remain effective.

This role will spearhead the implementation of our new democratic and student voice structures, focusing on increasing engagement and the effectiveness of our representation systems.

The Student Democracy & Insights Coordinator will lead on analysing and presenting student insight to strengthen representation and influence decision-making.

The role combines democratic development with data analysis. The postholder will maintain and develop student feedback systems, identify trends across campuses and Faculties, and translate complex information into clear, accessible reports and briefings that support elected Officers, staff and University engagement.

This role ensures that student voice is not only heard, but understood and acted upon.

Colleges Scotland is the collective voice for the college sector, and as the membership body, represents the 24 colleges in Scotland, which deliver both further education and around 20% of the provision of all higher education in Scotland.

The 24 colleges operate in 13 regions across Scotland, allowing them to plan nationally and regionally, as well as deliver locally.

Colleges Scotland’s primary role is to support colleges and the regional strategic body in achieving their aims and objectives, and to cultivate the strength of the college sector in Scotland. This is achieved through advocating and campaigning on behalf of the college sector, co-ordinating sector-wide engagement on major issues, policy development, and maintaining strong and proactive relationships with government, sector agencies and industry bodies. Colleges Scotland is driving new business development opportunities to increase benefits to its members.

College Employers Scotland is a committee of the Colleges Scotland board and has delegated decision making responsibilities on all matters related to National Bargaining.

The Role of the Chair

The Chair provides inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring the effective governance of the charity and that Colleges Scotland is accountable to its members.

The Chair will also support and, where appropriate, challenge the Chief Executive Officer and ensure that the Board functions effectively as a unit and works closely with the entire Executive of the charity to achieve agreed objectives.

The Role of the Trustee

As a Trustee, you will be responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and effective operation of Colleges Scotland as an organisation, rather than matters related to the college sector more broadly, and ensuring that we meet our charitable objectives and comply with our legal obligations.

Refugee Sanctuary Scotland is seeking a committed and values-driven Trustee with a background in governance and/or Human Resources to join our Board and help guide the next phase of our development.

We are a charity dedicated to supporting and standing in solidarity with people seeking sanctuary. As we continue to grow and strengthen our impact, we are looking to enhance the skills and experience on our Board — particularly in governance and people management.

About the Role

As a Trustee, you will:

• Provide strategic oversight and good governance
• Ensure compliance with charity law and best practice
• Support effective Board decision-making
• Contribute to organisational sustainability and growth

With a specific focus on governance and HR, you will also:

• Advise on Board governance structures, policies and compliance
• Support the development and review of HR policies and procedures
• Contribute to workforce planning and people strategy
• Promote best practice in equality, diversity and inclusion
• Support a healthy, accountable and values-led organisational culture

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals with:

• Experience in charity governance, public sector governance, or corporate governance
• A professional background in HR, people management, or organisational development
• Knowledge of employment law and HR best practice (charity sector experience desirable but not essential)
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A commitment to the mission and values of Refugee Sanctuary Scotland

We are particularly keen to hear from candidates who bring lived experience, diverse perspectives, and a passion for social justice.

Previous trustee experience is welcome but not required — we will provide induction and support.

Time Commitment

• Approximately 4–6 Board meetings per year
• Participation in sub-groups as required
• Occasional strategy sessions or development days

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of people seeking sanctuary
• Help shape the governance and people strategy of a growing charity
• Contribute your expertise to a cause rooted in dignity, inclusion and community

Join Our Board – Make an Impact

Help shape Scotland’s future. As a Board Director at the ALLIANCE, you’ll influence policy, guide strategy, and champion our vision: A Scotland where everyone has a strong voice and lives well with dignity and respect.

Why Join Us?

• Drive change at a national level
• Develop strategic leadership skills
• Expand your professional network
• Make a lasting impact on people’s lives

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking passionate leaders with expertise in:

• Business development and innovation strategy
• Artificial Intelligence
• Cyber security
• Influencing change
• Charity finance
• Governance, charity law and compliance
• Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Human Rights

Your Commitment

• 4 Board meetings per year (2.5 hrs each) – hybrid option
• 4 Finance, Audit and Risk committee meetings per year (2 hrs each) – hybrid option
• 1 development day plus occasional events (AGM, annual conference, self management awards).

Term

• Up to 6 years (renewable)
• Nomination required by an ALLIANCE standard member organisation.

Board Directors will be elected by our membership at our AGM on 23 March 2026.

PVG Scheme membership is required for this post.

Board Directors are unpaid but reasonable travel and subsistence expenses will be paid.

Full induction will be provided.

For more information about the ALLIANCE please visit our website.