Overview
The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice is seeking to appoint a Board Member to the board of OSCR (Scottish Charity Regulator). The Cabinet Secretary values diverse perspectives on the board and welcomes applications from people from all walks of life. The appointments process for this board vacancy follows the Code of Practice for Public Appointments and is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.
OSCR is Scotland’s charity regulator and registrar for Scotland’s 25,000 charities. Our vision is for a trusted and respected charity sector that contributes positively to society. We believe the Scottish public should have confidence that the country’s charities are well run, and that this allows these vital organisations to thrive and be central to everyday life.
OSCR’s Board sets the strategic direction and ensures effective governance of Scotland’s charity regulator. OSCR is a Non-Ministerial Office, part of the Scottish Administration but independent from the Scottish Government, and accountable to the Scottish Parliament.
The Board is responsible for oversight, governance, and future direction. Members act as ambassadors for OSCR, promoting our values and bringing specialist knowledge and experience along with a passion for charities and the third sector. Appointed by Scottish Ministers, they share collective responsibility for the actions and decisions of the Regulator.
The Board is currently working with staff to develop our next Corporate Strategy, building on the outcomes set in our 2023–26 Corporate Strategy and Business Plan.
Role and responsibilities
Board members play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of Scotland’s charity regulator.
The Board meets formally five times a year, with additional days dedicated to strategy and development. Members will join the Audit and Risk Assurance or Cases committees and may also participate in short-life working groups.
Members work with OSCR colleagues to
* deliver our Corporate Strategy and contribute to future plans;
* set the strategic direction for OSCR in response to changes in the wider operating environment; and
* oversee the effective implementation of the new powers as part of the Charities (Regulation and Administration) (Scotland) Act 2023
Current priorities for 2025–26 are listed in our Business Plan. Board members engage with a wide range of stakeholders including charities, voluntary organisations, the public, Scottish Parliament, and other regulators. This may involve attending meetings, conferences, and public events, with full support and briefings from OSCR staff.
OSCR has produced a video about the role of a Board member, including frequently asked questions.
Further information
For further information about OSCR and the role, please contact Katriona Carmichael, OSCR CEO, Katriona.Carmichael@oscr.org.uk.
Remuneration and time commitment
£224.46 per day, non-pensionable plus reasonable travel and subsistence and receipted dependents’ carer costs.
Taking up a public appointment either paid or unpaid may affect your entitlement to benefits or any benefits you already receive. This will depend on your circumstances, the type of benefit you receive and the appointment. You should seek advice from the office that deals with your benefit. Further information can be found at Public appointments and welfare benefits: information - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
Skills and experience
We are seeking candidates who meet at least one of the three Priority Criteria. If you have experience across multiple Priority Criteria, provide supporting evidence for the one you consider strongest. If you would like to be considered under more than one Priority Criterion, please indicate this in the other Priority Criterion field. The Priority Criteria are weighted over the essential criteria, and candidates who provide the strongest evidence against the Priority Criterion will be considered most able to fulfil the role. Candidates must also be able to demonstrate all of the Essential Criteria.
Priority Criteria
* Understanding of digital delivery and the requirements of cyber resilience
* Experience or expertise of working with diverse communities and organisations
* Understanding of regulation at a senior level in any sector
Essential Criteria
* Ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively
* Constructive support and challenge
* Strategic thinking and long-term vision
* Ability to analyse and review complex issues
* Ability to communicate effectively
Tailored Career History
In your application form you are asked to provide a tailored career history. This should include relevant information from your professional, personal and voluntary experience.
How to apply
1. Open the advert and download the Applicant Pack and Application Form.
2. Fill out the Application Form while referencing the Applicant Pack, noting the word counts for each section.
3. Return to the advert and click “apply now” and follow the instructions.
4. Complete the personal information and conflict of interest questions.
5. When prompted to add an attachment, upload your completed Application Form and click submit.
6. PLEASE NOTE you do not have the option to edit your application once you click ‘submit’. You must have all your information and attachments to hand before submitting your application.
Advert closes on 17 September 2025. Late applications will not be accepted by the selection panel.
Assistance for applicants
If you use assistive technology, please contact the Public Appointments Team for an accessible application form by email at public.appointments@gov.scot
Seniority level
* Executive
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Business Development and Sales
Industries
* Government Administration
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