Paddle Scotland is entering an exciting new phase of development and are looking to appoint a Head of Operations & Strategy 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.
Working closely with the CEO, Board and our small staff team, you will play a central role in strengthening our operational foundations while contributing to the strategic direction of the organisation. You will help ensure Paddle Scotland is well-managed, financially robust and equipped with the systems, processes and culture required to deliver our strategy.
This is a rare opportunity for a collaborative and strategically minded leader to drive organisational excellence behind the scenes, enabling our community and sport-facing teams to maximise their impact across Scotland.
About the Role
The role will focus on:
Leading the delivery of organisational strategy and supporting Paddle Scotland's ongoing development and sustainability
Providing strategic and operational leadership across finance, governance, compliance and organisational systems
Strengthening organisational effectiveness through improved processes, systems and ways of working
Leading financial planning, budgeting, reporting and oversight, working closely with our external financial services provider
Supporting the CEO, Board and Committees through the provision of high-quality reporting, financial insight and operational information
Developing and delivering a commercial approach to diversify and grow income streams
Identifying and developing new partnerships and revenue opportunities aligned to Paddle Scotland's values and strategic priorities
Supporting the continued success of Grandtully Station Park Campsite, maximising customer experience and financial return
Providing strategic oversight of marketing and communications activity to enhance Paddle Scotland's visibility and profile
Leading and developing a small team, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture
Building strong relationships with Board members, partners, funders, suppliers and stakeholders across the sector
Deputising for the CEO as required
Who We're Looking For
We're looking for a strategic, collaborative and hands-on leader who is as comfortable improving systems and strengthening governance as they are identifying opportunities for growth and supporting organisational change.
You will bring:
Significant leadership experience within operations, finance, organisational leadership or a related field
A track record of leading and developing high-performing teams
Experience of developing systems, improving processes and embedding effective governance
Confidence in financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, monitoring and reporting
The ability to translate strategy into practical delivery
Strong understanding of governance, compliance and risk management
Experience of engaging and influencing senior stakeholders, including Boards, Committees and funding partners
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
A collaborative and adaptable approach, with the ability to thrive in a changing environment
A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
Experience within sport, membership organisations or the not-for-profit sector would be welcomed, as would experience of income generation, public funding environments and organisational change.