The Next Chapter: SCDC Director
/Fiona Garven shares some reflections as she looks ahead to stepping down as SCDC Director later this year.
After 13 years as Director of SCDC and approaching a ‘significant birthday’ it is now time to step back and make way for new leadership.
I can honestly say, Director of SCDC has been the best job I’ve ever had and I have enjoyed (almost!) every bit of it.
I have had the rewarding experience of working with a fantastic team of committed and creative colleagues, and a supportive and progressive board. On top of that, the opportunity to have met and worked with a vast array of insightful and knowledgeable people from local community organisations and many other sectors, collectively helping to shape public policy in favour of community empowerment and participation, has been a genuine privilege.
Together we have made a difference – ‘community’ is now part of our policy lexicon and part of our legal frameworks. But, there is still lots to be done to properly embed community empowerment and to develop a strong participatory democracy in Scotland.
I hope to continue to be part of that collective effort – not just cheering on from the sides but working in a different capacity to support and champion communities and all the brilliant work they do to make a difference to millions of people’s lives.
I am very much looking forward to the new appointment, the next chapter in SCDC’s journey and the exciting times ahead for community development in Scotland. If you want a truly rewarding job and the chance to work with some great people, please apply – SCDC looks forward to hearing from you!
