Senior Non-Executive Director – Governance & Strategy
Job Description
About Us
SRUC is a leading tertiary institution working across Scotland and internationally to deliver education, research and innovation that supports a sustainable natural economy. Our vision is to address global challenges including climate change, biodiversity loss and food security, through a unique integration of teaching, research and knowledge exchange. With a Scotland-wide footprint spanning campuses, farms and innovation centres, we are a key anchor institution driving inclusive growth, skills development and impactful research aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
About the Roles
We are seeking up to seven Non-Executive Directors to join the SRUC Board as part of planned succession and skills renewal aligned to our strategy. The Board provides strategic leadership, governance and oversight across a complex organisation operating in education, research, consultancy and innovation. Members act as both Company Directors and Charity Trustees, contributing to high-quality decision-making, robust challenge and effective oversight of performance, risk and resources. The role requires a commitment of approximately 18-25 days per year, including Board and committee meetings and stakeholder engagement.
About You
You will be a strategic leader with the judgement, independence and credibility to contribute at Board level. You will bring experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Audit and risk governance
- Tertiary education (Higher Education), skills, research, and international collaboration
- Rural and land-based sectors, including current farming experience
- Digital transformation, data and cyber resilience
- Equality, diversity and inclusion
- Innovation, commercialisation and entrepreneurship
- Strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and organisational reputation
You will be collaborative yet willing to provide constructive challenge, with strong communication skills and a commitment to high standards of governance, integrity and public value. You will share SRUC’s ambition to drive sustainable growth and innovation within the natural economy.
Application Details
To apply, please visit for full information and to upload your CV and cover letter (as one document).
Closing Date
Applications must be submitted by Monday 10th August 2026.
Interviews
Interviews will be conducted during the weeks of 24th August and 31st August.
Additional Notes
Please note any annual leave or prior commitments you have planned during this time on your application.
