Director, General Management, Non-Profit & Social Impact

Location: City of Edinburgh

Anderson Knight is thrilled to partner with Historic Churches Scotland (HCS) to appoint a visionary new Director at a pivotal moment in the charity’s journey.

Historic Churches Scotland is a national Building Preservation Trust dedicated to safeguarding Scotland’s most significant at-risk churches, ensuring they remain open, sustainable, and cherished by local communities. As HCS enters an exciting phase of growth and increased public engagement, the charity seeks an inspiring and experienced leader to steer its strategic direction, fundraising, operations, and stakeholder relationships.

This senior leadership role is ideal for someone with a strong background in heritage, conservation, or property management, complemented by exceptional financial, governance, and people leadership skills.

Location:

Scotland
Salary: £40,000–£50,000

Role Purpose

The Director will champion HCS’s mission by providing strategic leadership, enhancing fundraising efforts, managing the charity’s properties and teams, and ensuring robust governance.

Key responsibilities include:

Strategic Leadership

* Shape and drive the charity’s long-term vision and strategy

* Act as a national ambassador for HCS, raising its profile and influence

* Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, funders, and communities

* Lead debates and policy discussions on the future of redundant church buildings

* Develop and implement a long-term fundraising strategy

* Advise trustees on property acquisitions and oversee transfers

* Ensure HCS churches are well-maintained and actively engaged with local communities

Management

* Inspire and lead staff, consultants, and volunteers

* Support local “friends” groups to keep churches open and thriving

* Oversee budgets, resources, and project management to deliver quality and value

* Lead fundraising campaigns and manage grant applications

* Coordinate contractors and compliance processes

Governance

* Work closely with trustees to support effective board governance

* Ensure robust risk management, financial control, and compliance

* Assist the Chair with trustee recruitment and development

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 demonstrate experience or exposure to:

* Scottish ecclesiastical heritage and sector challenges

* Project management in heritage or conservation settings

* Working with building professionals, communities, and stakeholders

* Fundraising and engagement with funding bodies

* Financial management and compliance

* Leadership of staff and volunteers

* Ambassadorial and communication roles

Skills and Attributes:

* Passion for HCS and Scotland’s ecclesiastical heritage

* Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

* Practical problem-solving with diplomacy

* Strong self-management and ability to balance multiple priorities

* Negotiation skills and ability to manage diverse interests

How to Apply

For further information or to apply, please contact Nicole Limmer at Anderson Knight