Paddle Scotland is entering an exciting new phase of development and are looking to appoint a Head of Business Development to join our Senior Leadership Team.
The Opportunity
This is a pivotal role that will help shape how Paddle Scotland operates as a modern, high-performing organisation, ensuring we have the systems, structures and financial sustainability in place to deliver our ambitions.
While the role has a clear remit for commercial development and income generation, the initial focus will be on strengthening our operational foundations. This includes leading on business operations, financial management, governance, and organisational systems to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and member experience.
Working closely with the CEO and Board, you will play a central role in both day-to-day organisational leadership and long-term strategic development.
About the Role
The role will focus on:
Providing strategic and operational leadership across business operations, finance, governance and systems
Strengthen organisational effectiveness through improved processes, systems and ways of working
Lead on financial planning, budgeting, reporting and oversight, working with external providers
Contribute to organisational strategy as part of the Senior Leadership Team
Develop and deliver a commercial and income generation approach to support long-term sustainability
Support and grow commercial opportunities, including Paddle Scotland’s facilities and partnerships
Lead and develop a small team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture
Build strong relationships with Board members, partners, funders and stakeholders
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for a strategic, collaborative and hands-on leader who is as comfortable improving internal systems and operations as they are identifying opportunities for growth.
You will bring:
Strong experience in business operations, finance, or organisational leadership, with a track record of delivering impact
Experience of developing systems, improving processes, and embedding effective governance
Confidence in financial management, including budgeting and reporting
The ability to translate strategy into practical delivery
Experience of leading and developing teams
Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with senior stakeholders, including Boards or partners
A commercial mindset, with the ability to identify and support income generation opportunities
Experience in sport, membership organisations, or the not-for-profit sector is welcome but not essential.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to play a key leadership role in the development of the future of Paddle Scotland where you can make a visible and lasting impact.
You’ll help shape not just our strategy, but how we operate day-to-day, enabling our wider team to deliver for our members and the sport.
Additional Information
Hybrid working with travel across Scotland as required
Occasional evening or weekend work may be required
Paddle Scotland is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk. We expect all staff to share this commitment.
Paddle Scotland is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds
How to Apply
Further information and applications
Closing date: 23:59 on Sunday 17 May 2026
Interviews: Expected to take place during the week commencing Monday 25 May 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications, so early application is encouraged.