About us
Edinburgh is a very special place – steeped in history, with iconic and stunning buildings and public spaces, the city was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995. Edinburgh World Heritage is an independent charity dedicated to ensuring that our World Heritage status is a dynamic force that benefits everyone – those who live, work or study in the city, and those who visit. Our mission is to connect people to their heritage. We work in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland and the City of Edinburgh Council to ensure that the management and conservation of the WHS preserves it intact for future generations to enjoy.
We do this through grant-aiding and working with partners to deliver active conservation of historic buildings, conservation and creative interpretation of historic public spaces, developing solutions and guidance through our new climate emergency programme and engaging people directly with the rich heritage of their city.
Job summary
We are looking for new Board trustees with drive and enthusiasm who are:
· Passionate about Edinburgh and the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO World Heritage Site
· Interested in how we connect and engage all people in our heritage
· Skilled and experienced in one or more of the following: conservation and maintenance of the built environment, legal, finance, HR, events and fundraising
As a trustee you will be responsible for the strategic direction of the organisation and stewardship of public and charitably-given funds, supporting and adding value to the work of its professional team in conservation, engagement and capacity building.
We wish to attract people from a broad range of backgrounds, demographics and cultures to steer and inform our work. We are aiming for inclusivity, richness of experience and diversity on our Board and in our workforce, to ensure that Edinburgh World Heritage reflects the diversity of the world we live and work in. We particularly welcome applications from young people or those interested in applying for their first trusteeship. Appropriate support, including induction and training, will be given.
Board meetings occur four times a year and there is an annual away day for trustees and staff to discuss current issues. Board trustees are also expected to play a role in at least one the organisation’s committees or groups.
Details of the current Trustees, staff and initiatives are available on our website – and full details of the post may be downloaded from.
Role Description:
Purpose
To ensure, with the other trustees, that EWH acts in accordance with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, and to manage its activities in furtherance of its objects.
Responsibilities
* Acting as a pro-active advocate for EWH
* Setting the strategy and undertaking the strategic management of EWH
* Ensuring that EWH complies with all applicable legislation and regulations
* Ensuring that EWH applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects
* Ensuring the financial stability of EWH and that proper accounting records are kept
* Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of EWH and approving EWH's policies
* Protecting and managing the property of EWH
* Ensuring the proper investment of EWH’s funds
* Safeguarding the good name and ethos of EWH
* Supporting EWH’s fundraising and development programme
Main duties
Collective
* Approving the rolling business plan annually and monitoring progress against it
* Determining/approving the annual budget and monitoring progress against it
* Approving the annual report and accounts
* Appointing the Director and monitoring their performance
Individual
* Attending meetings of trustees
* Playing an active part in the trustees’ meetings and deliberations
* Exercising due care and attention and using reasonable skill in dealing with EWH’s affairs
* Using own skills, knowledge and experience to help the trustees reach sound decisions
* Taking the lead in any trustees’ activities where the trustee has special knowledge
* Managing any conflict of interests
* Sitting on board committees and informal groups, when required
* Sitting on recruitment and disciplinary panels if required
* Supporting EWH’s programme of events
* Supporting executive in response to targeted requests
Requirements
Closing date 10am, 9 December 2024
Benefits
Appropriate support, including induction and training, will be given.
Trustees are not remunerated, however reasonable out of pocket expenses are reimbursed.