Head of Cultural Services

RECRUITMENT PACKHEAD OF CULTURAL SERVICESMuseums, Libraries, Archives, Galleries, Visitor Attractions, Arts and Creative Programming, Cultural Services, Related Educational and Engagement Programmes.  About Live Borders

A message from our CEO

The Role

Key Responsibilities

Knowledge and Experience

Packages and Benefits

Working In the Borders

CONTENTSABOUT LIVE BORDERS

Live Borders is a forward-looking charitable trust at the heart of the Scottish
Borders, delivering active, creative, heritage, life-long learning and community
services that make a real difference to people’s lives.

We exist to help communities thrive - physically, creatively and socially. Every
day, our teams support people to be active, curious and connected, whether
that’s through sport and fitness, libraries and learning, arts and heritage,
museums, events or community programmes.

Since our establishment in 2016, Live Borders has brought together sport,
leisure, culture and learning services into one organisation with a shared
purpose: to improve wellbeing, reduce inequality and strengthen communities
across one of Scotland’s most distinctive regions.

A PLACE-BASED ORGANISATION DELIVERING SOCIAL IMPACT

The Scottish Borders is a unique place - rural, diverse and deeply connected to its
communities. Live Borders reflects that. We deliver services across towns, villages and
rural communities, reaching people of all ages and backgrounds.

Each year, we support more than a million visits to our sport and leisure facilities and
hundreds of thousands of visits to our cultural venues and services. But our ambition
goes beyond numbers. We want to ensure that what we offer is relevant, inclusive and
responsive to the changing needs of the communities we serve.

We reinvest every penny we generate back into services and communities, ensuring
public value and social impact sits at the heart of everything we do.

A TIME OF OPPORTUNITY AND CHANGE

Live Borders is on an exciting journey. With new leadership and a clear focus on impact,
we are strengthening how we engage with communities, partners and stakeholders, and
how we tell our story.

This is a place for people who want to make a difference - who are motivated by
purpose, but also excited by change, improvement and innovation.

Following an organisational restructure, we have an exciting opportunity to recruit three
new heads of service roles, including this role. The role holder will have a career defining
opportunity to establish and develop a restructured service and be a major influencer
and leader, shaping the transformation of Live Borders.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Thank you for your interest in joining Live Borders.

Live Borders plays a vital role in the life of the Scottish Borders. Every day, our teams
support people to be active, creative, curious and connected, through active living,
creativity, culture and heritage, learning and community services. The impact of this
work is felt across our communities, and it matters deeply.

We are a values-led organisation with a strong sense of purpose, and we are also one that
is evolving, responding to the changing needs of our communities, the challenges facing
the public and third sectors, and the opportunities ahead of us. This is a moment to be
ambitious, thoughtful and bold about how we deliver our services and how we engage
with the people we serve.

Our senior leadership roles are critical to that journey. We are looking for people who
bring professional expertise, strategic thinking and a collaborative mindset, people who
are motivated by purpose, but also comfortable leading change, asking questions and
finding better ways of working. Above all, we are looking for leaders who care about
people and place, and who want to make a positive, lasting difference.

At Live Borders, we value openness, inclusion and teamwork. We believe that empowered
people deliver the best services, and we are committed to creating an environment where
our leaders and teams can grow, develop and do their best work.

If you are excited by the opportunity to lead, to shape the future of an organisation
rooted in community and impact, and to be part of a committed and passionate team, I
encourage you to consider joining us.

I look forward to welcoming the next generation of leaders to Live Borders.

Catriona McAllister
 Chief Executive
 Live Borders

THE ROLE

Hours:

37

Location: HQ, Newtown, St Boswells / Hybrid

Salary: Grade 13: £53,865 - £58,360

The Head of Cultural Services will be accountable for setting an innovative,
compelling strategic direction for their portfolio, focused on social impact,
productivity, income generation, exceptional service.  You will have a
demonstrable track record at this level and be able to evidence experience of
significant transformational change.

You will be a proven leader who has led large teams through whole-system
cultural change, with the ability to identify learning and development
opportunities to improve the team's productivity, capabilities, and competencies.

Your focus will be on delivering transformational change that improves services,
increases income generation, and widens inclusion across the portfolio. You will
lead the delivery of the portfolio's strategic plan with the drive and passion to
bring innovation and deliver the business case targets within your remit.

THE ROLE

Live Borders is a charity and key community delivery partner to a wide range of
organisations. A fundamental element of the remit is to develop strong delivery
partnerships and initiatives that can help the organisation secure additional funds
and grants, and accelerate the delivery of national, regional, and our own strategic
priorities. The Head of Cultural Services will be accountable for delivering key
performance measures of both financial and social impact across their portfolio.

Live Borders is at a pivotal moment. Following the recent council-led review of our
services, the Head of Cultural Services will be a key programme manager,
supporting the CEO in delivering the launch of the Business Transformation
Programme, designed to secure a sustainable future for our diverse portfolio of
facilities and services.

This ambitious three-year programme will provide significant improvements in
efficiency, productivity, and customer experience, ensuring that the Scottish
Borders remains a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.  You should have a proven
track record in senior project management and be able to demonstrate a thorough
understanding of project management methodology.

The Head of Cultural Services will lead the strategic and operational delivery of
Cultural Services related services including Museums, libraries and archives, Visitor
attractions and Arts and Creative programming. They will lead on management of
Cultural Services related educational programmes and engagement with schools,
Colleges and other education- based organisations.

THE ROLE

They will lead the design and delivery of artistic and creative programmes to
engage communities across the Borders region, driving additional footfall and
revenue. They will oversee delivery of programmes across the region, ensuring
that financial targets are achieved.

 The Head of Cultural Services will lead on building partnerships and engaging
with the community, ensuring that the organisation fulfils its remit to provide
appropriate programmes to support the health and wellbeing of the
community. Their responsibilities will include leading on building financial
investment through creating effective partnerships and collaborating with
both potential sponsors and the community to build engaging programmes.

They will lead on funding applications, bringing in additional revenue to
support the creation of new and innovative programmes. Their responsibilities
will include leading on building new and existing partnerships to create cross
regional programmes to enhance the cultural offerings across the region,
ensuring that quality targets are achieved.

KEY RESPONSIBILITES

STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT

Contribute to the development of the organisational Strategic planning process and
be accountable for delivering the outcomes and impacts for their portfolio of
services. Provide a challenge to the development of strategic plans, ensuring that
focus remains on the delivery of social impact and financial targets.
Lead partnership management with SBC and external sector bodies relating to the
portfolio.
Develop detailed implementation plans to ensure the portfolio's operations deliver
exceptional service and demonstrate regular progress toward key performance
indicators.  Monitor progress and implement mitigation to succeed.
Represent the organisation at appropriate sector forums.  Attend networking
events and industry-related events to enhance and strengthen the Live Borders
profile and to key role holders' sector knowledge.
Contribute to the corporate management, growth and development of the
organisation as a key member of the Senior Leadership Team.  Lead relevant cross-
company working groups
Act as Programme Manager, leading strategic programmes and projects as part of
the Business Transformation Programme.
Ensure the portfolio’s organisational structure is fit for purpose and has the capacity
and capabilities to deliver the strategic plan.  Make recommendations for changes
to the structure to reflect evolving service demands.
As part of a wider stakeholder group, implement and drive forward the delivery of
the Scottish Borders Council Cultural Strategy.

SERVICE DELIVERY

Ensure services within the portfolio are delivered. Oversee the design and delivery
of all activity programmes with a focus on inclusion, service excellence, social
impact and improved income generation
Ensure that service managers within the portfolio are accountable for delivering
innovative programmes and excellent customer service with safe practices at the
core of service provision.
Accountable for the cascaded development and delivery of operational plans for
areas of responsibility.
Ensure that managers achieve Key Performance Indicators and that service delivery
is managed effectively and adheres to Health and Safety guidelines and statute
legislation.
Embed a culture and system of continuous improvement with robust monitoring
and evaluation of customer satisfaction in place.
Monitor and analyse business performance data and ensure competence in using
data and research to underpin decision-making and innovation.
Provide and present reports, data and advice to the Executive team, staff teams,
partners and the Board as required.
Oversee the management of contracts with all external providers to ensure that
terms of agreement are adhered to, including start and termination dates, review
points etc.
Accountable for ensuring that the company obtains best value for money for all
external services provided to the function and reviews the performance which it
receives on a regular basis.
Lead on collaboration with service stakeholders to improve ways of working and
associated internal processes

BUDGET MANAGEMENT

Accountable for the delivery of the organisational business plan and annual budget.
Work closely with the Head of Finance and Business Services to prepare annual
budgets and monitor performance.
Accountable for identifying deviations from budgets and implementing corrective
action in the year

PEOPLE MANAGEMENT

Manage, lead, develop, motivate and coach direct reports so they are fully equipped
to deliver a quality service.    .
Promote a Cultural Services of continuous organisational improvement with strong
focus on both internal and external customers
Ensure all direct and indirect reports understand the organisation’s strategic goals
and are motivated to achieve them.
Ensure effective channels of communication and collaboration are in place both
within the function and across the wider organisation.
Support innovative ideas from team members aimed at service improvement and
encourage creativity
Ensure that managers adhere to policies and procedures.
Undertake performance development reviews and ensure all team members have
an annual impact objective and a clear personal learning and development plan.

PARTNERSHIPS

Work closely with other senior managers to identify and act upon potential
commercial opportunities.
Lead and promote partnership working with a range of professional bodies and
external stakeholders to support potential commercial opportunities for the
organisation.
Represent Live Borders externally e.g. at networking events, conferences and
exhibitions to enhance and strengthen the company’s profile.
Identify and secure fundraising and grants opportunities, and develop fundable
projects within the service delivery portfolio.

OTHER DETAILS

Undertake any other reasonable duties which may be requested by Live Borders
Requirement to work out with normal hours /weekends may occasionally be
required to ensure business continuity
Full UK Driving Licence and access to vehicle essential.
Live Borders offers a flexible working environment, with a hybrid approach.
This is a senior role and the balance can be shaped around the needs of the role.
Relocation packages may be considered

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

EDUCATION

Essential

Assessed  Desirable

Assessed

Educated to postgraduate level in cultural
services or related subject or able to
demonstrate equivalence through CPD or
experience

EXPERIENCE

A

Master's or equivalent

Project Management
Qualification

A

A/I

Essential

Assessed  Desirable

Assessed

Demonstrable track record and
skills/experience gained within a similar
position(s), at a similar level.

Experience of successful strategic planning,
development, implementation and
consultation

Ability to analyse and use complex
management  data and research to inform
decision-making and improve performance

Experience in securing external funding and
Implementations

Experience of senior leadership, managing
complex relevant services in Creative Arts

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

Impressive, demonstrable track
record and skills/experience
gained within a charitable,
leisure/ cultural trust at a
similar level.

Lead development of
departmental or organisational
strategic plans

A

A/I

Leadership in Charitable,
Leisure / Cultural Environment

A/I

EXPERIENCE

Essential

Assessed  Desirable

Assessed

Senior people leadership and management
skills, and experience in dealing with a
range of people issues

Experience in writing and presenting Board
papers, experience in creating
communication suitable for a variety of
audiences, including the Board. Persuasive
writing and presenting to secure decisions

Experience in developing successful
strategic partnerships and working in
collaboration to deliver key outcomes

A/I

A/I

A/I

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Essential

Assessed  Desirable

Assessed

Self-motivated, with the ability to work
proactively using own initiative.

Tenacious and results driven with sound
business judgement

Ability to influence at all levels, both
internally and externally, including at Board
level.

Ability to organise, communicate and
motivate

Understanding of external funding
programmes

A/I

I

I

A/I

A/I

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Essential

Assessed  Desirable

Assessed

Detailed knowledge of appropriate industry
sector(s).

Able to work collaboratively with CEO,
senior managers, board directors and
external stakeholders

Ability to motivate individuals and teams to
achieve/exceed targets

Ability to organize, prioritise and meet
deadlines

Good working knowledge of Office 365
suite of programmes

Ability to plan and achieve objectives and
maintain quality outcomes within tight
deadlines.

Ability to scrutinise and review information
and data, prepare and present reports based
on analysis

Ability to build and manage effective links
with a variety of organisations and
individuals

Ability to build persuasive arguments and
make recommendations to different
audiences.

Ability to lead complex programmes and
projects

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

A/I

PACKAGES AND BENEFITS

Pension: Starts with a 5% company contribution into an Aviva scheme, increased to
10% after 2 years service. After 5 years service, you can join the Local Government
Pension Scheme (current company contribution is 17%)

Holidays: Starts at 30 days of annual leave plus 4 public holidays (for Christmas and
New Year). Increases with service up to a maximum of 35 days after 6 years’ service.

Free membership at our Gyms & Swimming Pools

Free entry to our Attractions (e.g. The Great Tapestry of Scotland, The Jim Clark
Motorsport Museum)

Death in Service benefit of 3 times salary

ASVA membership: We are a corporate member which means staff can get free access
to other member attractions, including Edinburgh Zoo and Historic Scotland sites.

Cyclescheme: Saves the employee tax and NI contributions on the purchase of a new
bike and accessories

Help@Hand: Employee assistance programme which includes a variety of services
including a 24 Hour advice and information line with support including -

Counselling and legal information
Financial Support
Remote GPs: where employees can arrange a call back from a practising UK GP 24/7
Savings and discounts - access savings and rewards across a variety of big brands

WORKING IN THE BORDERS

The Scottish Borders is an outstanding place to live and work, offering an excellent
quality of life alongside rewarding career opportunities. Live Borders plays a vital role
in supporting culture, sport, learning and wellbeing across the region’s communities.

Predominantly rural and rich in history, the Borders is known for its strong local
identity, traditions such as the Common Ridings and its sporting heritage as the
birthplace of seven-a-side rugby in Melrose. The area offers exceptional opportunities
for outdoor activity, with world-renowned mountain biking at Glentress, beautiful
walking and cycling routes and access to the Berwickshire coast. A wide range of
sports, leisure and cultural facilities are available throughout the region.

The Borders also has a vibrant cultural scene, with libraries, museums, galleries,
festivals, theatres and community arts across its towns, alongside excellent cafés,
restaurants and independent shops.

Despite its rural setting, the Scottish Borders is well connected. Edinburgh is around
30 miles away, with regular rail services via the Borders Railway taking around 50
minutes. There is also easy access to Glasgow, Newcastle and major airports.

The region offers strong education provision, with a network of primary and secondary
schools across the region, and more affordable housing than many UK cities - making
it an attractive option for individuals and families alike.

 Working for Live Borders means being part of an organisation that makes a real
difference to people’s lives, while enjoying everything the Scottish Borders has to offer.

WORKING IN THE BORDERS

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If you would like more information or an informal chat about the role, please contact
Catriona McAllister on cmcallister@liveborders.org.uk

If you would like to apply for this post, head to
https://liveborders.bamboohr.com/careers

Hours:

37

Location:

HQ, Newtown, St Boswells / Hybrid

Salary:

Grade 13: £53,865 - £58,360

Closing Date: Monday 16  February 2026 at 12pm Noon

th

The selection process can include different forms of assessment along with a formal
interview. You will be advised of this if your application is successful.

If you have a disability and need assistance in completing your application form,
please contact our People team recruitment@liveborders.org.uk to discuss your needs.

We look forward to receiving your completed application.