GENERAL SECRETARY
The Scottish Secondary Teachers’ Association (SSTA) is the only Scottish-based teaching union exclusively representing teachers in secondary education. With around 6,000 members, the Association is committed to supporting teachers, influencing education policy, and promoting excellence in Scottish education.
Following the retirement of the current postholder, the Association seeks to appoint a new General Secretary. This is an exciting opportunity to lead the organisation and help shape the future of education in Scotland.
The Role
Based in Edinburgh, the General Secretary will provide strategic leadership for the Association and be responsible for:
- Leading the development and implementation of the Association’s strategic objectives.
- Supporting the development of education policy and representing the interests of secondary teachers.
- Managing and leading the Association’s staff and resources.
- Building strong relationships with members, elected representatives, employers, government bodies, and other stakeholders.
- Leading negotiations and representing members’ interests at national and local levels.
- Supporting recruitment, retention, training, and engagement of members.
- Promoting effective communication, campaigning, and public advocacy on education issues.
- Driving organisational development and continuous improvement.
The Person
Candidates should be able to demonstrate:
- Strong leadership and management skills.
- Strategic thinking and the ability to lead organisational change.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- An understanding of education and the challenges facing the profession.
- Experience of policy development, stakeholder engagement, and public representation.
- The ability to manage complex issues and make sound decisions.
- A genuine commitment to education and the welfare of education professionals.
A background in teaching, educational leadership, or trade union work would be advantageous but is not essential.
Salary and Conditions
- Salary: £106,224 (SNCT Head Teacher Point 15)
- Car allowance: £3,500
The appointment is subject to the provisions of the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992, which may require a ballot of members. The post is also subject to re-election by members every five years.
Application Process
Applications close at 12 noon on 27 August 2026.
Interviews will be held in Edinburgh on 9 September 2026.
An application pack, including the application form, job description and person specification, can be downloaded from the SSTA website or requested from the Association’s office. Candidates may also contact the current General Secretary for an informal discussion about the role.