The SCD Board have started the search for a General Manager. This will be an operational leadership role to support and guide all employees and board members of Strathdearn Community Developments (SCD) and White River Trading (WRT). This central role will tie together all SCD / WRT operational and oversight functions, ensuring that future strategy set out by the board is understood and adopted by all staff, working together as a team. The General Manager will work to a clear business plan agreed by the SCD Board and in alignment with the Community Action Plan. There will be a need to report back regularly to the SCD Board with financial updates.
External Structure Review
In 2024 SCD engaged with an external consultant recommended by DTAS https://dtascot.org.uk/ to look at the current structures in place within SCD / WRT and recommend areas where the organisation could be strengthened. This external viewpoint recognised the growth in the last few years, which has increased the complexities, legal and regulatory responsibilities of the business. The consultant recommended the appointment of one operational leadership position with the expertise and skill for ensuring future success whilst minimising organisational risk.
Future Board Role
The General Manager will allow both the SCD and WRT Boards to remain non-executive, responsible for strategy setting and oversight of the progress being made by the organisation in respect of the objectives set. The SCD Board meeting will be where the General Manager will be held to account on operational progress. Out with the board meetings, the Chair of the SCD board will be available to the General Manager as a source of trusted guidance, the SCD Chair will be able to give a second opinion in a safe space with more formal annual appraisals being held as agreed by the SCD Board.
Due to the new structure, SCD and WRT Board meetings should be shorter and less frequent. The directors can then concentrate on future strategy leaving operational matters within the responsibility of the General Manager. Having a General Manager in place may hopefully encourage more Strathdearn residents to take the opportunity to contribute to Strathdearn’s future development by choosing to become a board member.
Success of Operations and Projects
SCD must ensure the success and sustainability of the shop, cafe and hub. Sustainability should be improved in all areas. Community assets already built must be looked after and future projects such as housing and Hazelbank woods must be delivered to satisfactory standards. Having one person with oversight in all these areas, pulling things together, is considered essential if the organisation is to operate as efficiently as possible.
Reductions in hours of key staff
The current Company Secretary, Project and Development Manager and Financial Controller have all shown a wish to reduce their hours and would welcome the recruitment of a General Manager to help this happen. Although the General Manager’s salary may potentially increase current employment costs, the expectation is that most of this new position’s salary would be significantly offset by the reduction in costs currently being incurred due to work being done by key staff members and outsourced resources. The SCD Board are looking for the appointment to deliver an uplift in turnover and progress towards breakeven alongside the delivery of social and environmental goals expected of a social enterprise like SCD.
Independant Recruitment Company
An independent company, Orion https://www.orionjobs.com/ is being used for the start of the recruitment process, and they will put forward suitable candidates for interview. Only at that point will anyone currently involved with SCD and WRT get involved to take the process to the point of hiring. Any interested parties should contact https://www.orionjobs.com/job/general-manager/ for more information on the role.
Further Questions
If you have further questions please contact us by email info@strathdearn.org and your query will be forwarded to the relevant person.
