SNH Board a ‘challenging and rewarding’ opportunity

12th December 2012

The recruitment of new Board members for Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) is an opportunity that is both challenging and rewarding, according to one of its retiring members.

Dr. Joan Mitchell, a farmer, moorland ecologist and former councillor, is one of two women on the eight-strong Board. Her term ends in March, along with another two members, and Ministers are currently recruiting replacements.

Reflecting on her experience, Dr. Mitchell said: “For me, working with SNH has been both challenging and rewarding. It has drawn on both my academic background and previous experience, particularly in countryside management and rural development, and as chair of the council planning and environment committee.

“The organisation’s work impinges on economic development, tourism and recreation as well as environmental issues, land management and nature conservation. In providing strategic leadership across this varied remit, the Board must have a wide range of expertise, not just scientific.”

Commenting on the make-up of the Board she added: “Personally I think the board would benefit from a better gender balance. Experienced people from virtually any background can add value to the work of the Board. I’m certain there are many women who would bring excellent relevant experience and would enjoy the work.”

Dr. Mitchell said the main challenges that have faced SNH during her term have been to ensure the public and decision makers appreciate the importance of nature to everyone’s wellbeing, while protecting SNH’s reputation as an evidence-based advisor to government.

Future challenges, she said, include maintaining that reputation and engagement with a reducing budget whilst reaching out to members of the public who don’t yet derive much benefit from nature and landscape.

Andrew Thin, SNH chairman, said: “Scottish Parliament and Ministers look to SNH to help deliver the sustainable management of nature and landscape. That’s a huge responsibility, given that nature is our greatest asset. The Board has a vital role in making sure it is fulfilled effectively and efficiently.”

Current expertise represented on the SNH Board include farming, estate management, fisheries research, marine pollution, environmental management, energy, education, aquaculture and wildlife management.

Mr. Thin added: “It’s not necessary to have a detailed understanding of science and the natural heritage. We’re looking for people with the experience to help lead a large and complex public service organisation in a non executive capacity.”

SNH Board members receive £282.80 per day with a normal commitment of 30 days a year. Application packs are available from the public appointments website ( www.appointed-for-scotland.org ) with a closing date of 21 December.