RSNO Overview
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO) has an established history stretching back over a
hundred years. It is one of Scotland’s national performing companies and an ensemble with a
variety, quantity and quality of work that is unparalleled among British orchestras. The reputation of
the Orchestra’s back catalogue, performance track record, its wide-ranging learning and
engagement programme, the loyalty of its audience and supporters, and the passion of musicians,
staff, directors are key assets in building a successful future.
In terms of structure, the RSNO is unique in being a hybrid of a self-governing orchestra and a
managed orchestra. This ensures that the players, as the majority members of the Society, have the
final say about who is elected to be a Director. However, the Board is autonomous and will make
strategic decisions about the Society without further input by the members.
The Board employs professional managers to manage the Society. The Board does not get involved
in issues which they have delegated to those managers. Therefore, the day to day running of the
Society is the responsibility of the Chief Executive and the management team.
Our Vision Scotland’s Orchestra for all of Scotland’s people
Our Mission Our mission is to be a welcoming and open organisation that believes music can enrich
lives. We create gathering points that engage, educate, entertain and move people no matter their
life stage or circumstances. We link music with what matters and with moments of relevance for all
of Scotland’s people and for our society.
Our Values
? Engage people through music and music-making, whatever their life stage or circumstance
? Be enthusiastic collaborators and work with partners to extend and enhance our mission
? Strive for excellence in our music-making upholding artistic integrity no matter where we are
? Listen and reflect the needs of Scotland’s diverse communities
? Recognise our role in creating a fairer, greener, more inclusive and sustainable Scotland
? Serve Scotland and its people at home and abroad
? Build on our heritage and innovate for our future
? Be fearless – we are never scared to change… never scared not to
? Endeavour to be open, warm, kind and supportive
Role Specific Responsibilities
? Act as the lead advisor to the board to ensure that the charity is operating within the legal
framework of a Scottish registered charity and company limited by guarantee.
? Advise on constitutional obligations as set the Articles of Association.
? Contribute to good governance, including compliance with Office of the Scottish Charity
Regulator (OSCR) and Companies House requirements, provision of guidance to other trustees
as to their legal and ethical duties and responsibilities, and financial stewardship and stability.
? Work with the chair of the board to ensure effective governance structures are in place and are
regularly reviewed, updated and followed.
General responsibilities of the role
? Legal and governance experience gained at a strategic level
? An understanding of the Company Secretary role, and of the non-executive role of Trustees and
the Board
? A level of commercial acumen and an understanding of finance and fundraising
? A strong commitment to the principles underlying the work of the RSNO and the importance of
music in society
? An understanding and commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Responsibilities of the role
? Act as an ambassador for the RSNO promoting awareness and interest in its work
? Contribute to the success of the RSNO by offering support and guidance related to the Society’s
strategic objectives
? Ability to share strong networks and contacts in support of the RSNO
Terms of appointment
? The role is unremunerated. Reasonable, pre-agreed travel expenses will be reimbursed.
? The successful candidate will be expected to undertake the appropriate legal responsibilities of
the company secretarial role
Time Commitment
? The initial appointment is for a three-year term.
? There are approximately six board meetings per year.
? Regular attendance at RSNO events is encouraged.