Chief Executive Officer

Zero Waste Scotland is the nation’s circular economy public body, dedicated to transforming the economy from a linear “take, make, waste” model to one that keeps resources in use for as long as possible. Since its inception in 2014, the organisation has worked with government, businesses, and communities to reduce overconsumption and embed circular practices across key sectors. 

Its pioneering initiatives—such as the Circular Economy Investment Fund and Scotland’s first Circularity Gap Report—have positioned Zero Waste Scotland as a leader in sustainability both nationally and internationally. The organisation is guided by four core values: Pioneering, Collaborative, Focused, and Authentic.

Zero Waste Scotland is seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the organisation through an ambitious transformation. The CEO will serve as both the public-facing ambassador and internal leader, inspiring change, driving high performance, and positioning the organisation as a global exemplar in circular economy policy, research, and practice. 

Reporting to the Non-Executive Board and the Scottish Parliament as Accountable Officer, the CEO will be responsible for setting strategic direction, ensuring operational and financial excellence, and upholding the organisation’s values while delivering on public expectations. 

The salary for this role is £120,000.

Strategic Leadership 

• Define and communicate the organisation’s vision and long-term strategy. 

• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, inclusion, and high performance. 

• Ensure financial and operational sustainability. 

Operational Excellence 

• Oversee day-to-day operations across all corporate functions. 

• Manage an operational budget of approximately £18M. 

• Uphold governance, ethics, and compliance standards. 

People & Culture 

• Lead and develop a high-performing executive team. 

• Embed a values-led culture focused on engagement and development. 

• Empower approximately 160 colleagues across three directorates. 

External Relations & Stakeholder Engagement 

• Act as the primary spokesperson nationally and internationally. 

• Engage with government ministers and senior policymakers. 

• Build strategic partnerships across sectors. 

Innovation & Impact 

• Champion evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement. 

• Respond to emerging trends and challenges. 

• Drive entrepreneurial approaches to public outcomes. 

Accountability 

• Ensure value for public money, transparency, and compliance with statutory responsibilities. 

Skills & Abilities 

• Strategic thinker with strong leadership and people management skills. 

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and media handling. 

• Financially astute with governance and risk management expertise. 

• Decisive under pressure, especially in high-profile situations. 

Job Essentials 

• Proven strategic leadership at Executive or CEO level. 

• Understanding of circular economy or sustainability. 

• Experience in the Non-Departmental Public Body sector. 

• Knowledge of Scottish Government structures and public finance. 

• Track record in transformation, budget management, and stakeholder partnerships. 

Personal Attributes 

• Values-driven and committed to public service. 

• Visionary, courageous, and results oriented. 

• Emotionally intelligent and inclusive. 

• Culturally aware and respectful of diversity. 

Knowledge 

• Deep understanding of public sector governance and funding. 

• Awareness of environmental, political, and social drivers. 

• Strong grasp of public value and organisational development. 

Work Environment 

• Predominantly home-based with hybrid options (Stirling office). 

• Role involves strategic judgement in sensitive matters. 

Desirable 

• Experience operating in an international context.