What is a Public Appointment?

A Public Appointment is an appointment to the board of any of the public bodies across Scotland - either as a member, or as the chair. Whatever the organisation, it's the board's role to provide leadership, direction and guidance.

Board members aren't involved in the day-to-day running of the public body. Of course, a public appointment is an ongoing commitment demanding your interest and attention, but the actual time commitment is usually only a few days a month (though some posts will have greater demands). Appointments range from a few days a year to a more substantial commitment. Most involve attending board meetings - for which some preparation is needed - and some posts involve other duties as well.

Many public appointments are made under a system regulated and monitored by the Public Appointments Commissioner (Scotland). It's the Commissioner's role to ensure that appointments are made fairly and openly and are based on how well people match the skills needed for the role.