Be our Next Trustee

We're looking for new trustees to join our board.

Shape the Future of the Arts in Shetland

The role of Shetland Arts Development Agency’s board of Trustees is to ensure the objectives of the Agency are realised, through the management and direction of our Chief Executive and through the approval and monitoring of a range of policies, delegation schedules and strategic plans.

A key role of the Board of Trustees is to take the ‘long view’ on the organisation’s development and sustainability, including the monitoring of financial matters such as the approval of annual budgets and management accounts. Trustees ensure the organisation stays relevant to the community it serves by adapting to change and responding to strategic opportunities and challenges.

“Ultimately, trustees are responsible for the organisation. The Chief Executive provides professional expertise, and trustees represent the community, helping to keep the organisation on course.” – Graeme Howell, Chief Executive

What is Shetland Arts?

Rooted in Shetland since 2006, Shetland Arts brings people together through creativity to make a real impact, right across the isles. All that we do works towards clearly defined outcomes we want to see, for the benefit of everyone in Shetland.

With our outcomes, we aim to improve:

Quality of life – through greater access to creative and social experiences
Opportunities – through the development of new skills
Confidence – to contribute positively through greater opportunities for self-expression and community involvement
Inclusion and equality – through an appreciation of a diversity of cultures and lifestyles
Mental and physical health – through more active involvement in creative and social experiences
Community resilience – through a more diverse creative economy

Find out more about our impact.

Why become a Trustee?

To make a meaningful difference in the community while gaining invaluable personal and professional experience, Trustees:

Play a key role in supporting Shetland Arts’ strategic direction.
Help ensure the organisation remains relevant, sustainable and impactful.
Develop skills in leadership, governance and decision-making.
Contribute to shaping the arts landscape of Shetland.

“Being a trustee is a very rewarding experience – you get out what you put in. It offers the opportunity to develop new skills, see organisations from a different perspective, access training, and build new relationships and networks. Locally, it helps you connect with people outside your usual circles, and nationally, it can deepen your understanding of wider sector issues.” – Graeme Howell, Chief Executive

What's involved?

Trustees serve a three-year term and meet six times a year for formal board meetings, with additional informal meetings throughout the year.

New Trustees receive a full induction and ongoing support to help them succeed in the role.

Shetland Arts trustees are not excluded from applying for funding or other opportunities offered by the organisation.

Take a look at some of our board meetings and papers.

Who should apply?

We are looking for people who share a passion for the arts and Shetland’s communities. We value diverse perspectives and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.

While skills or experience in areas such as finance, governance, arts, education, or community engagement are particularly beneficial, they are not essential. Enthusiasm and commitment are the most important qualities. With fewer than 3% of charity trustees under 30, Shetland Arts is also keen to welcome young trustees who can bring fresh perspectives, skills and experiences to the board.

If you are passionate about the positive impact of the arts on people’s lives and want to contribute to Shetland’s creative future please consider getting in touch. To apply to be a trustee please fill out an application form and send it to [email protected] before the 9th of August, interviews will take place at the start of September.

How to apply

If you are passionate about the positive impact of the arts on people’s lives and want to contribute to Shetland’s creative future please consider getting in touch.

To apply to be a trustee, please fill out an application form and send it to [email protected] before the 9th of August.

Interviews will take place at the start of September.