Trustees (Non-Executive Directors)
SKILLS
FULL DESCRIPTION
Trustees (Non-Executive Directors)
The Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) is an independent marine research organisation, founded in 1884, and one of the world’s oldest oceanographic institutions. Based on the west coast of Scotland, near Oban, SAMS is a registered charity and Company Limited by Guarantee.
About the Role
Are you fascinated by the marine world? Would you like to use your skills, creativity and energy to help us improve knowledge of the marine environment and promote its importance and value? Are you interested in widening your horizons? If any of these apply to you, you might just be the person we are looking for to join our Board.
We are seeking new Science focussed Trustees to join the SAMS Board to strengthen its scientific complement commencing in Summer 2026.
Key Responsibilities and Commitment
These positions are unremunerated. Appointments will be for an initial three-year term that may be extended for up to a further three-years. The minimum time commitment, including preparation for and participation in formal committee meetings, is approximately 10 days per annum. There are a number of sub-committees of the Board for which extra time commitment of two or three days is required. Science Trustees will be a member of the Research, Enterprise & Innovation Committee. A minimum of two meetings a year will be held in Oban, the others online. Should travel expenses be incurred these will be reimbursed.
Required Qualifications
- Background in marine / environmental science research and / or education.
- Senior operational role in a university, research or third sector organisation.
- An ability to operate strategically and collaboratively towards common goals.
- Demonstration of a strong commitment to equality and diversity.
Desirable Experience
- Background in media and communication, and/or public engagement.
- Experience of building effective philanthropic / fundraising relationships and networks.
- Background in Finance, Risk, Compliance or Law.
How to Apply
To arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Professor Nicholas J P Owens, Director ([contact hidden]). Application for the role is by: covering letter and CV to [contact hidden] by the deadline for applications of 29 May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview virtually in June with the possibility of face-to-face interviews later. More information about SAMS, including governance and composition of the Board of Trustees at: https://www.sams.ac.uk/about/#131679.
Equal Opportunities
SAMS Group is committed to being an equal and open organisation. Diversity and inclusion are important to us, and we strive to remove any barriers that may prevent people from applying to join us. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, and from all who share our values and can help us to broaden our knowledge and range of ideas.