We're hiring: Head of Operations
St John Scotland is recruiting a Head of Operations to provide strategic and operational leadership across a range of services that support communities throughout Scotland.
This senior leadership role is an opportunity for an experienced operational professional to play a key part in delivering and developing services that strengthen community health resilience and help save lives. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the successful candidate will lead national operational delivery, oversee service performance, and support both staff and volunteer frameworks across the organisation.
The Head of Operations will be responsible for ensuring the safe, effective and consistent delivery of St John Scotland's operational services, including Patient Transport, Public Access Defibrillators, CPR awareness initiatives and volunteering. The role also involves leading performance management, overseeing operational budgets and resources, managing service delivery issues and supporting the development of strong governance, safeguarding and risk management processes.
Working closely with colleagues, volunteers and external partners, the successful candidate will help strengthen relationships with organisations including NHS Scotland, the Scottish Ambulance Service and local stakeholders, supporting St John Scotland's mission of creating safer, healthier communities.
This position would suit an experienced leader from a charity, health, public sector or similar operational environment who is confident managing teams, delivering organisational objectives and turning strategy into practical results. Strong communication skills, sound judgement and a collaborative leadership style will be essential.
Key details
- Edinburgh Head Office, with regular travel across Scotland and flexible working considered
- Full-time, 37.5 hours per week, with occasional evening and weekend work
- Salary: £55,000
- Closing date: 9 August 2026
Joining St John Scotland offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact through a senior leadership role with real responsibility and influence. The successful candidate will help shape the future of services that support people and communities across Scotland while working within a values-driven organisation committed to saving lives.
Click here for a full job description.
To apply, please send your CV and cover letter to recruitment@stjohnscotland.org.uk ✉️
Closing date: 9 August 2026.