Guide the Future of Our National Park: 2026 Board opportunities

Five Ministerial Board vacancies are open for people who can bring strategic thinking, sound judgement and real commitment to the long-term success of the National Park Authority.

Together, we guide how the Park thrives – from climate and nature recovery to visitor experience and local livelihoods. Your enthusiasm, skills and experience can play a vital role in ensuring our Park delivers for both people and nature.

Alongside the general skills and experience requirements for Board membership, we are looking to ensure continuity in the delivery of our strategic aims by appointing members with expert knowledge and understanding in at least one of the priority criteria set out in the application pack, as outlined below:

• Knowledge and understanding of nature restoration and biodiversity;
• Knowledge and understanding of the climate emergency, adaptation, and mitigation;
• Knowledge and understanding of financial, audit, and risk management and its application in a public sector finance context;
• Strategic knowledge and understanding of the public sector in Scotland and the role of Scotland’s National Parks in leadership and delivery;
• Knowledge and understanding of rural economic and social development.

We also want to hear from candidates with genuine curiosity, commitment and care for people, and for nature. We need Board members who reflect the diversity of Scotland – people with lived experience, community insight, specialist knowledge or leadership from any sector. Different voices aren’t just welcomed – they’re essential.

Being a Board member means helping to set the direction of the National Park and making decisions that guide how we deliver for people, nature and local communities. You’ll review and shape strategy, scrutinise performance, support good governance and work closely with fellow Board members and senior staff on key issues facing the Park.

Each Board member brings their own experience, perspective and strengths – you don’t need to be an expert in everything. What matters is your ability to contribute thoughtfully, ask good questions, learn from others and help drive meaningful, positive change.

You’ll be well supported in the role. We offer training, development opportunities and Board shadowing, so you can build confidence and settle in at your own pace.

We also recognise that Board members balance work, family and other commitments, so the time expectations are clear and flexible wherever possible.

We have a blended Board structure that combines community representation, local authority insight and national perspective, including:

• Five locally elected members
• Six Scottish Government appointed members
• Six local authority nominated members