Why now is the moment to join the Architecture and Design Scotland Board
Architecture and Design Scotland is entering one of its most exciting chapters yet and we’re opening recruitment for three new board members to help shape the next phase of our national design mission.
Over the past year, we’ve been working closely with the Scottish Government to refine our focus and strengthen the contribution we make to Scotland’s built environment. As Angela Bonney reflects in the launch film, this renewed direction brings “a focused view of the areas where we can make real impact”, building on the expertise across Architecture and Design Scotland and our partnerships with organisations across Scotland and beyond.
A Board connected by purpose and diverse in perspective
Our board members come from a wide range of backgrounds, united by a belief in the power of design to improve people’s lives. As Bruce Ross notes, Architecture and Design Scotland’s remit may be rooted in architecture and place, but its impact is much broader:
“It’s also about the lives of people and the impact that architecture and the built environment can have in shaping places.”
He describes the strength of a board that blends design understanding with wider cultural, environmental and societal insight, creating a space where big ambitions meet practical action.
Championing the future of Scottish architecture
He shares his excitement to see “Scottish architecture taking place on the world stage”. And thinks the new role and remit of Architecture and Design Scotland as a centre for excellence and sector development body provides an opportunity “for architects to be promoted abroad and make it better for the next generation.”
He emphasises that the board thrives on diversity: alongside architects, there are voices from creative industries, marketing, education and beyond. No one should feel they have to “fit a mould” to join. Curiosity, contribution and commitment matter most.
A place to learn, grow and give back
For Kirsty Macari, who is currently serving as interim Chair, board membership has been both a professional challenge and a personal opportunity to give something back to an organisation that supported her early career.
She believes this is a pivotal moment for Architecture and Design Scotland:
“We need people who can think beyond the next five or ten years, people who can imagine the future, whether through digital innovation, sustainable design or alternative ways of shaping the built environment.”
Kirsty sees huge potential for Architecture and Design Scotland to expand conversations beyond traditional partners, open up new collaborations, and bring design thinking into more of Scotland’s places, professions and communities
Is this your moment to shape Scotland’s built future?
If you’re motivated by design, inspired by Scotland’s potential, and ready to contribute to a small but high-impact national organisation, we’d love to hear from you.
You don’t have to be an architect.
You don’t need prior board experience.
You do need to care about how design improves lives.
Or, as Alistair puts it:
“People who are thinking about joining should be optimistic and just go for it.”
Learn more about the role and apply
More information about how you can apply or about the role can be seen on Public Appointments Scotland’s website here.
We are also hosting an evening online information session on 25 March at 18:30 – 19:30. You can register for the event here.