Chair

Chair of Governing Council

The Chair of our Governing Council, Professor Geoffrey Boulton OBE FRSE FRS, has played a leading role in our successful transformation over the past two years as we have worked to reshape the organisation to meet the challenges of a changing research environment. Geoffrey is now stepping down at the end of his term of office and we are looking for an exceptional individual to succeed him. Our Board of Trustees has already been strengthened by the recruitment of six new trustees working with us and helping us meet the challenges as SAMS continues to develop and we therefore see this final appointment as pivotal in bringing together the different elements of our governance. SAMS is a registered charity and Company Limited by Guarantee. The Chair will also be a Trustee of SAMS Charity and a Non-Executive Director of SAMS as a company.

Whether your background is academic, commercial, or third sector, you will be able to provide commercial and strategic leadership as SAMS moves forward in its mission.

The role requires a broad range of skills and experience. The Chair will need to be competent to contribute to several of the following areas:

  • Clear demonstration of the ability to operate at Board level, most likely through previous strategic/board-level experience;
  • Senior role in a university, research, commercial or entrepreneurial organisation; preferably but not necessarily in marine, environmental, or related sectors.
  • Experience of building effective funding and/or income-generating relationships. A record of achievement in marketing and/or philanthropic fundraising would be welcome.
  • Demonstration of a strong commitment to leading positive culture change.
  • An ability to work strategically and collaboratively at a senior level with excellent knowledge of corporate governance.
  • Significant organisational business acumen.
  • Ability to lead change successfully and positively influence individuals and organisations.
  • Strong networking skills preferably with a significant network.

This position is unremunerated, although travel expenses will be reimbursed. The appointment will be for an initial three-year term, which may be extended for a further three-years. The minimum time commitment, including preparation for and participation in formal committee meetings, is approximately 18 days per annum.

The majority of meetings are held in Oban, thus travel time will need to be added to this. 

Full details of the role are provided in the attached job description and person specification.