The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society
The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society

Charity registered in Scotland SC016085

The RSCDS, founded in 1923, is the recognised representative body for Scottish Country Dancing throughout the world. We have around 12,000 members worldwide, with a network of 160 Branches and almost 310 affiliated groups covering all continents. 44 of the Branches and 33 of the affiliated groups are in Scotland.


Closed vacancies
This vacancy has now closed

Top job! Chief Operating Officer

  • Full time
  • Circa £45,000
  • Edinburgh (Home working and occasional travel included)
  • Closing 13th February 2023

Growing a vibrant worldwide community of Scottish Dance and Music.

The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society (RSCDS) exists to promote Scottish dancing globally as a fun, friendly, inclusive and healthy activity which can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere. RSCDS deliver their mission to today’s generation by running activities and annual events throughout the UK and further afield, all with a focus on Scottish Country Dance.

With an extensive network of RSCDS branches and affiliated groups already working at local level to organise and deliver Scottish Country Dance courses, ceilidhs and workshops in their communities, this fantastic charity is able to reach huge numbers of dancers around the world. RSCDS work on everything from implementing the overall strategy of the charity to the successful delivery of the intensive four-week Summer School in St Andrews. They work in partnership with a board of trustees and three committees who come from a variety of backgrounds, all working voluntarily.

The opportunity has now arisen for a new Chief Operating Officer (COO) to join the passionate team at RSCDS. Reporting directly to the Chair and the Management Board, the COO will work to ensure smooth and efficient running of the RSCDS operations. You will work to support the Management Board and Committees in the delivery of the RSCDS strategy. The COO will play a critical role in ensuring there is a positive organisational culture where all staff feel valued by volunteers and colleagues. Essentially, the COO will be in post to manage the staff function and to ensure the successful delivery of major events. You will have the confidence to take authority when making decisions on behalf of RSCDS and be the face and voice of the team. The COO will work to increase membership and engage the current members. This is a varied role, and no two days will be the same. There is a great opportunity here to design a fast and responding organisation.

We are looking for a strong leader who is able to engage with members and influence decision making. To be successful in this role, you may be someone with a background in office management, marketing, HR, operations or volunteer management. Although this would be beneficial, you do not need to have experience within the charity sector to be successful in this role. If you feel that you are able to manage people and volunteers whilst being able to influence through the art of negotiation,

This could be the perfect role for you. This is a wonderful and unique opportunity to take RSCDS to a great place. If you have a passion for dance, this is advantageous.

Shortlist