Scotland’s Finest Woods is pleased to announce it is welcoming applications for a new Executive Director, following the decision by Jean Nairn to step down after four years of excellent work promoting the very best of woods and forests in Scotland and the people that care for them.
The charity is also looking for up to three new trustees to bolster the team behind an annual awards ceremony which showcases the exemplary work going on across Scotland, from community orchards to commercial plantations, farm woodland to urban forestry.
If you would like to be involved it is easy to apply and you have until May 15th. See below for full details.
Executive Director position
The position of Executive Director is an excellent opportunity for an independent consultant or contractor to take a leadership role in an organisation with a strong profile, a growing reputation and positive momentum. The terms of engagement will be on a Contract for Services basis.
Scotland’s Finest Woods is a Scottish Charity and a Limited Company whose aim is to celebrate the contribution that woodlands and trees can make to the people of Scotland, its environment and economic prosperity. Each year, the charity runs the Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards programme which recognises and rewards an array of excellence in caring for Scotland’s woodland resource. Awards are presented at a prestigious ceremony which has for the last two years been held at the Scottish Parliament.
The responsibility of the Executive Director is to ensure successful delivery of the annual Awards programme of the highest quality with efficient use of resources. The Executive Director should ideally have a forestry background or come from a related field with an interest in forestry. You should understand what is required in running a small charity in Scotland and the role of the Company Secretary. You will have strong organisational, budget management and communication skills as well as good planning, time management and problem-solving skills. You will work with the charity’s trustees, sponsors, supporters, the volunteer competition judges and any other contractors supporting delivery of the Awards as well as other contacts relating to the running of the charity and company.
Although the time commitment is around 70 days a year, this not evenly spread as there are periods of more concentrated activity. The contract value is expected to be £15,000 – £20,000 (negotiable) inclusive of any VAT per annum. This is a three-year contract, renewable annually subject to satisfactory delivery and funding.
Jean said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time among the branches of Scotland’s Finest Woods, helping to champion some inspiring work going on across Scotland. During my time, I was pleased that the Urban Forestry Award was introduced, demonstrating yet another woodland type that the Awards programme celebrates. The charity has also been able to facilitate a dedicated event for the Awards ceremony during National Tree Week.”
“I would recommend the position of Executive Director to anyone with a passion for trees, woodland and forests, and the superb work going on to help them grow.”
Wilma Harper, Chair of Scotland’s Finest Woods, said: “First of all, thanks must go to Jean for the tremendous effort and work she has put in to make Scotland’s Finest Woods thrive and grow.
“Her replacement will be warmly welcomed and join a team of dedicated champions of all woods.”
Applications must be submitted by noon on Friday 15th May 2026 to Jean Nairn via admin@sfwa.org.uk Interviews will take place in person or online late May/early June. The successful applicant is expected to start on 1st July 2026, initially overlapping with the present Executive Director for two months to provide an induction and handover. If you wish any further information about the role, you may phone or email the current Executive Director on admin@sfwa.co.uk / 07954 847055 (please leave a message). Full details of the contract specification can be found here.
Trustee applications
Scotland’s Finest Woods is seeking up to three new trustees to contribute to the governance of the charity.
Scotland’s Finest Woods is looking for people with experience in leadership roles ideally as trustees or non-executives. If new to charity governance, this will not be a barrier, but you must familiarise yourself with charity trustee guidance as outlined by OSCR (Office of Scotland Charity Regulator) and the SCVO Trustee Network. Support will also be provided during Board induction and update sessions.
While desirable, a knowledge of woods and forestry is not required. Scotland’s Finest Woods will particularly welcome applications from those with knowledge across our Award categories, communications and promoting our work externally, fundraising or a combination of these.
There are two Board meetings per year, hybrid, based in Edinburgh or fully online. In addition, trustees may be asked to lead on certain topics or contribute to the development of particular projects. Trustees also attend the Awards ceremony, welcoming guests and Award winners.
The position of charity trustee is voluntary though essential expenses can be reimbursed.
Wilma Harper, Chair of Scotland’s Finest Woods, said: “Scotland’s Finest Woods is a small charity with a big impact.
“Our new trustees will form part of the bedrock of our organisation, helping to make our promotion of woodland and forestry even more powerful.”
Applications must be submitted by noon on Friday 15th May 2026 to Jean Nairn, the Executive Director, via admin@sfwa.org.uk. If you have any queries about SFW and the role of trustees or wish to have an informal and confidential discussion, Guy Watt, the former Chair, is available by emailing gw@johncleggconsulting.co.uk to arrange a call. Interviews will take place in person or online late May/early June.
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