Overview

We’re looking for a new Chief Executive. Full-time: 4-day week (32 hours, Monday to Thursday). Application closing date: 5pm on 14 October 2025.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a proactive, solution focused leader who combines energy, vision, and creativity with the experience of leading an organisation to deliver on its strategic priorities. You can demonstrate relevant expertise in planning/placemaking and community engagement. You are an excellent communicator and experienced networker with a proven ability to foster collaboration, creating strategic alliances to maximise impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive will be responsible for the leadership and management of the operational and financial affairs of the organisation including developing, promoting and facilitating strategies, objectives and deliverables. It will be the Chief Executive’s responsibility to ensure that the organisation continues to maximise and evidence its impact, ensuring reflective learning is embedded throughout. As Company Secretary, the Chief Executive takes responsibility for the organisation’s legal and statutory requirements. The Chief Executive will ensure that Planning Aid Scotland continues to be an inclusive and learning organisation. Encouraging greater shared understanding and cooperation amongst planning practitioners, elected members, officers and community members, and promoting greater diversity is also an essential part of the job.

Why join our team?

• Become part of our friendly, creative team
• Work flexibly between home and our Edinburgh city centre office
• Enjoy a progressive 4-day workweek (this means you will work 32 hours, Monday to Thursday)
• We offer generous annual leave and employer pension contributions - details in the Position Profile on our website

How to apply

Interested candidates should provide a tailored CV and covering letter, detailing your motivation for the position, as well as completing the Equal Opportunities Monitoring form. Applications should be submitted by 5pm on Tuesday 14 October 2025.

Please read the Position Profile on our website for more information and details on how to apply.

Planning Aid Scotland is an equal opportunities employer. Inclusion is one of our core values and we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and life experiences. If you require any adjustments to take part fully in our recruitment process, please let us know and we will support you.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Planning Aid Scotland is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and life experiences. If you require any adjustments to take part fully in our recruitment process, please let us know and we will support you.