Anderson Knight is delighted to be partnering with Historic Churches Scotland to appoint a new Director at an exciting and pivotal stage in the charity’s development.
Historic Churches Scotland is a national Building Preservation Trust dedicated to protecting and conserving Scotland’s most significant at-risk churches, ensuring they remain open, sustainable, and valued by local communities. As the organisation prepares for a new phase of growth and increased public engagement, they are seeking an experienced and inspirational leader to guide its strategic direction, fundraising, operational delivery, and stakeholder relationships.
This is a senior leadership opportunity for a candidate with strong heritage, conservation, or property management experience, combined with excellent financial, governance, and people management skills.
Salary - £40,000-£50,000
Role Purpose
The Director will lead HCS to secure its mission through:
* Strategic leadership and advocacy
* Fundraising and partnership development
* Management of HCS properties, staff, and volunteers
* Oversight of organisational finances and governance
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Lead the charity and develop its strategic direction
* Act as an ambassador for HCS, raising its profile nationally
* Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders and funders
* Respond to debates about the future of redundant church buildings
* Develop and implement a long-term fundraising strategy
* Oversee maintenance and community engagement for HCS churches
Management
* Inspire and manage staff, consultants, and volunteers
* Support local “friends” groups to ensure churches are open and actively used
* Prepare budgets and resource plans to meet property needs
* Lead fundraising and grant applications
* Manage projects, contractors, and compliance to ensure quality and value
Governance
* Maintain strong relationships with trustees and support board activities
* Ensure good governance, risk management, and financial compliance
* Assist the Chair in recruiting and developing trustees
Person Specification
Knowledge and Experience
A degree or professional qualification in art history, architectural history, architecture, surveying, conservation, or a related field is desirable. Candidates should have experience or exposure to:
* Scottish ecclesiastical heritage and current sector challenges
* Project management in heritage settings
* Working with building professionals, communities, and stakeholders
* Fundraising and managing funding bodies
* Financial management and complianc and staff and volunteer leadership
Skills and Attributes
* Passion for HCS and Scotland’s ecclesiastical heritage
* Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication
* Practical problem-solving and diplomacy
* Strong self-management and ability to balance multiple priorities
* Negotiation skills and ability to manage conflicting interests
To apply or for further information, please contact Nicole Limmer at Anderson Knight on (phone number removed)