The role of our Board

The Board of Scottish Natural Heritage, which is appointed by Scottish Ministers, is the ultimate decision-making body within the organisation.

It is the Board’s role to decide the strategic direction of SNH – within the framework of the policy, planning and resources set by Scottish Ministers.

Our Board, Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team then work together to provide leadership, direction, support and guidance to all SNH staff. The Board appoints our Chief Executive.

The Board must also:

make sure Scottish Ministers know of any changes likely to affect our strategic direction or ability to meet our targets
respond to Scottish Government requests and directions
ensure we work in an open, accountable and responsible way, comply with guidance on the use of public funds, and use staff effectively
set up committees of the Board as it sees fit – and oversee their work
make decisions on the notification of Sites of Special Scientific Interest and other important items of casework
engage with a range of strategic partners and stakeholders – e.g. through monthly area evening receptions (not July/August)

Our Board is supported by our:

Board members

View details about each of our Board members.

Board meetings

Anyone may come along to watch the open sessions of our Board meetings.

You can also make written representations and bring to the Board’s attention information about items on the meeting agenda. Find out how to do this in the relevant agenda.

Search for published Board meeting papers, including agendas and open session minutes.

Board member appointments

You could apply to join the SNH Board if you have experience in one or more areas of our work

The Scottish Government appoints the members of the SNH Board. To view vacancies and find out more, visit the Public Appointments website

Board members are appointed as individuals rather than to represent an organisation or other body. The initial term for a Board member is usually three years. Most Board members will serve no more than two terms.

Board appointments are unpaid.