Introduction

The Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal programme is funded by the Scottish and UK Governments as part of a programme of Regional and City Growth Deals.

The Greener Grangemouth Programme is part of a portfolio of Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal Projects. Falkirk Council Executive provides strategic oversight of, and approvals for, the Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal including its governance and assurance frameworks. As the accountable body, the Council is responsible for ensuring that there are comprehensive management and governance arrangements in place to deliver the Growth Deal.

Overview of the role

The Chairperson of the Greener Grangemouth Programme Board (Town Team) will play a key role in supporting the programme by working collaboratively to advance its aims, assist in driving progress, facilitate discussions, communicate updates, and advocate for its vision. While the Chairperson will represent the Greener Grangemouth Town Team at key strategic meetings, including the Growth Deal Programme Board and other relevant events, the role does not carry budget responsibilities or decision-making powers beyond the Town Team project level.

As an integral member of the Town Team, the Chairperson has no authority over the final decision on project delivery, which rests with the Growth Deal Programme Board for approval to submit proposals to the Scottish Government for final sign off. Instead, the Town Team is tasked with identifying and assessing potential opportunities, contributing to Project Business Cases, and exploring what is possible to help progress the programme’s objectives.

The one-year voluntary role provides a unique opportunity to play a key role within the programme with access to interesting and impactful work.

Responsibilities of the Chair

  • Work closely with the Programme Manager (Jacquie McArthur) and the Town Team to take forward the priorities of the programme.
  • Chair regular meetings, ensuring all voices are heard and discussions remain productive.
  • Act as an advocate and spokesperson for the Town Team, promoting the group’s work locally and nationally.
  • Engage with stakeholders to communicate and progress programme aims.
  • Maintain an impartial and fair approach to balancing the interests of different stakeholders.
  • Important note: no budget responsibility.

Remuneration

The position of Chairperson within the Greener Grangemouth programme is a voluntary, unpaid role however all reasonable expenses incurred in carrying out duties related to the role will be reimbursed.

Our commitment to equality and diversity

The Town Team aims to be inclusive, drawing on diverse perspectives, creativity and expertise to strengthen the programme.

If you are passionate about serving the community, keen to contribute to meaningful initiatives and wish to develop your skills further, we warmly encourage you to apply.

Support in your role

As Chair, you will be supported by the Programme Manager and a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers with a shared vision for a thriving, sustainable community. Comprehensive guidance, resources and support will be available to you in your role.

Contingency planning

To ensure the continuity and stability of the Greener Grangemouth Programme Board (Town Team), a clear process must be in place in the event of an unexpected period of ill health affecting the Chairperson or a loss of confidence in their leadership. The following procedures will be enacted to maintain the effective operation of the Town Team.

Temporary absence (up to 4 weeks)

If the Chairperson experiences an illness or any unforeseen circumstance that temporarily prevents them from fulfilling their duties, the following process will apply:

  • Interim Leadership: An agreed-upon member of the Town Team will assume interim leadership responsibilities.
  • Notification: The Programme Manager will inform the Programme Board and key stakeholders of the temporary absence.
  • Support Mechanism: The Programme Manager and Town Team members will offer operational support to maintain continuity.
  • Return to Role: Upon recovery and confirmation of readiness, the Chairperson will resume duties in consultation with the Programme Board.

Prolonged absence or permanent departure (4 weeks +)

If the Chairperson is unable to return after 4 weeks of absence or chooses to step down, the following actions will take place:

  • Interim Chair Appointment: A Town Team member or Programme Board representative will be appointed as Acting Chair.
  • Recruitment Process: A new Chairperson will be identified through an expedited selection process following the existing appointment procedure.
  • Handover Process: The outgoing Chair (if available) will provide key documentation and insights to the successor to ensure a smooth transition.

Loss of confidence in the Chairperson

If there is a loss of confidence in the Chairperson’s ability to effectively lead, the following steps will be taken:

  • Concerns Raised: Any concerns should be formally raised with the Programme Manager within the Town Team.
  • Review Process: An internal review will be conducted by a small panel, including representatives from Falkirk Council, the Programme Board, and community stakeholders.
  • Resolution or Transition: Depending on the findings, the Chairperson may be offered support and guidance to address concerns or asked to step down if required.
  • Interim Leadership: If a transition is necessary, an Acting Chair will be appointed until a replacement is formally selected.

Transfer of responsibilities

To ensure seamless continuity at the end of the one-year term or early departure from role, the following transfer mechanisms will be in place:

  • Documented Handover: A structured handover document detailing key priorities, ongoing workstreams, and stakeholder relationships will be maintained.
  • Succession Planning: The Acting Chairperson and Programme Manager will support the transition process, ensuring continuity as the role changes hands.
  • Stakeholder Communication: Any transition will be communicated clearly to stakeholders to maintain confidence in the Town Team’s leadership.
  • Reapplication Option: The outgoing Chairperson will have the opportunity to reapply for the role should they wish to continue for another term.

Selection criteria

Essential Criteria: The ideal Chairperson will bring the following skills and attributes to the role:

  • Stewardship Skills: an ability to support a diverse group of stakeholders toward a shared vision and common objectives.
  • Networking and advocacy:– you must have established connections within the Grangemouth and wider Falkirk area with the ability to build and leverage such networks. Understanding and connections with wider regional and national networks will be advantageous.
  • Communication Skills - good interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to build relationships, mediate discussions and represent the Town Team externally.
  • Organisational Skills - experience managing agendas, facilitating productive meetings, and following up on actions to ensure progress.
  • Neutrality and Impartiality - ability to remain impartial and represent all community voices fairly and equitably, ensuring all stakeholders feel heard and valued. The Chairperson must act in a non-political capacity, maintaining independence from any political affiliations or agendas to ensure the role is inclusive and focused solely on the objectives of the Greener Grangemouth programme.
  • Time Commitment - willingness to dedicate sufficient time to prepare for and participate in meetings, engage with stakeholders and support the overall objectives of the Town Team. This is likely to be approximately 15 days per year.

Desirable criteria

While not essential, the following attributes and experiences would enhance the Chairperson's effectiveness:

  • Experience in a similar role.
  • Familiarity with urban regeneration concepts and practices.
  • Ability to plan and adapt smoothly to upcoming challenges and opportunities.
  • Experience resolving differences constructively and fostering a collaborative environment.
  • An understanding of managing budgets or monitoring financial resources effectively.
  • A commitment ensuring broad representation and engagement.

Governance

As the Chairperson role sits within the Greener Grangemouth Programme Board (Town Team) please refer to the accompanying Terms of Reference.

Selection process

Stage 1: Expression of Interest

Interested candidates are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) outlining:

  • Relevant experience and skills aligned with the selection criteria.
  • Reasons for applying and their vision for the Town Team.
  • Confirmation of availability to commit to the role.
  • Submission Deadline: 18 April 2025

Stage 2: Evaluation panel

An evaluation panel comprising representatives from the following groups will assess EOIs:

  • Falkirk Council.
  • Grangemouth Community representatives.
  • Delivery partners.

Evaluation method

EOIs will be scored against the criteria using a scoring matrix:

5: Exceeds expectations.

4: Fully meets expectations.

3: Partially meets expectations.

2: Minimal evidence provided.

1: Does not meet expectations.

Stage 3: Interview process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview with the evaluation panel. The interview will:

  • Explore their ability to meet the essential and desirable criteria.
  • Test their approach to managing complex stakeholder discussions.
  • Provide an opportunity to share their vision for the Town Team.

Interview format

A 10-minute presentation on "How I Can Support the Greener Grangemouth Programme".

Q&A session led by the panel.

Stage 4: Appointment

The panel will agree on the most suitable candidate, ensuring alignment with the Town Team’s needs. Feedback will be provided to all applicants. The successful candidate will be formally announced and invited to chair the first Town Team meeting.

Application timeline

  • Launch of EOI: 2 April 2025
  • Deadline for EOI submissions: 18 April 2025
  • Interviews: 29 April 2025
  • Appointment announcement by: 30 April 2025

Contact information

For an informal chat, to ask questions or to submit an Expression of Interest, please email regeneration@falkirk.gov.uk.

Confidentiality

All applications and discussions will remain confidential within the evaluation panel.