Current Opportunities:
We are seeking new Board Trustees
The Water of Leith Conservation Trust works to protect and improve Edinburgh’s river. We strive to ensure the Water of Leith remains a haven for wildlife, a resilient blue-green corridor through the city, and a place where people can learn, volunteer, connect and enjoy nature.
As we continue to implement our five-year strategy, we are looking to recruit at least two new Trustees to join our Board and help shape the future of this successful and well-established charity. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute your skills, experience and enthusiasm to an organisation that makes a real difference to both people and nature across Edinburgh.
We are especially keen to hear from prospective Trustees who can help strengthen the Board’s skills in conservation and environmental management, or who have financial or treasurer experience.
Above all, we’re looking for people who share our passion for the Water of Leith and our commitment to the Trust’s values and mission. A strong interest in volunteering, environmental and conservation issues, combined with an understanding of our work and ambitions, would be particularly valuable.
We welcome applications from individuals at all stages of their careers and from a wide range of backgrounds. Previous trustee experience is useful but not required.
What does the role involve?
Trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Trust, ensuring that the organisation is well-managed, financially sustainable and delivering against its charitable objectives.
The Board usually meets every six to eight weeks, typically on a Tuesday evening at 6.30pm. Meetings generally last around two hours and can be attended in person or online where appropriate.
Trustees are also encouraged to attend Trust events and take an active interest in the work of the organisation.
The role of trustee is not paid.
For more details on becoming a Trustee download our TRUSTEE INFORMATION PACK
How to apply
If you’d like to become a Trustee, we’d love to hear from you. Please send us:
- A short statement outlining your interest in the role and what you feel you could contribute; and
- A brief CV.
If you would prefer to make a verbal expression of interest, we would be very happy to arrange this.
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact:
Helen Brown, Chief Executive
[email protected]
0131 455 7367 (on leave from 30th August to 9th September)
Further information about the Trust can be found at:
https://www.waterofleith.org.uk/the-trust/
Recruitment timetable: Closing date for expressions of interest: 14 September 2026
Following the closing date, prospective Trustees will be invited to an informal discussion with the Chair and Chief Executive. These conversations are intended to help potential Trustees learn more about the role, the Trust and our future plans, and to explore how their skills and experience might contribute to the Board. Candidates will also be invited to attend a Board meeting as a guest before being considered for appointment and induction.
Our Commitment to Fair Work
The Water of Leith Conservation Trust is committed to the principles of Fair Work as set out in Scottish Government guidance. We ensure that all employees are paid at least the Real Living Wage and have meaningful and effective channels to express their views and engage in open, two-way communication with their line managers.