Advertised from 17 July 2025

Role

ACE IT Scotland is a thriving Edinburgh-based charity established in 2005. In the past year, the charity delivered over 4,000 sessions supporting people aged over 50 to gain digital skills and build the confidence to navigate modern society. We are supported by a small team of staff, over 40 volunteers, and a committed Board of Trustees.

With the planned retirement of our current Chair in late 2025, ACE IT Scotland is seeking a new Chair to lead the Board into 2028 and beyond. This is an exciting opportunity to guide a dynamic charity at a time when digital inclusion is more important than ever.

Chair Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Champion ACE IT Scotland’s vision for digital inclusion for older people
• Lead the development of the Strategy 2028
• Safeguard the charity’s values, reputation, and financial stability
• Plan for Board recruitment and renewal

Governance Oversight

• Coordinate and support the Board of Trustees
• Monitor implementation of Board decisions

Board Facilitation

• Chair quarterly Board meetings and the AGM
• Set meeting agendas with the Manager
• Lead constructive discussions and ensure decisions are recorded
• Support Board performance and development

Staff Support

• Line manage the Manager, including performance reviews
• Provide occasional constructive support to staff
• Ensure clear reporting between staff and Board

External Representation

• Represent ACE IT Scotland at external events
• Advocate for the charity’s mission and values
• Stay informed on sector developments

Time Commitment

The Chair is expected to serve a minimum term of 3 years, with an average commitment of 4–5 hours per month. This includes meeting preparation, attendance, and ad hoc responsibilities.

• Lead quarterly Board meetings (currently Mondays, 10am–12pm, in person at the ACE IT office in Edinburgh)
• Lead the AGM (last held online in June 2025)
• Meet with Trustees as needed (including annual reviews)
• Attend occasional development sessions
• Participate in relevant sub-committees e.g., Finance, HR, Fundraising, Strategy & Planning (the Chair is not expected to attend all of these)

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience in governance and strategic leadership
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with tact and diplomacy
• Understanding of charity finance and compliance in line with regulations
• Ability to lead and inspire a diverse team

Desirable

• Previous Chair experience
• Sector knowledge (charity, social care, older people)
• Fundraising or partnership development experience

Application notes

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to ACE IT Scotland Manager Iain Couper iain@aceit.org.uk

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Please note that this is an unpaid role. Travel and other reasonable expenses can be reimbursed.

We are happy to discuss the role with potential applicants. To arrange an informal chat please contact Iain Couper at iain@aceit.org.uk