Applications invited for chance to sell Capital to the world

For the chance to scream and shout about the wonders of Edinburgh to the rest of the world is a role many people will relish.

The hunt is on for four proud locals to join a leading marketing company – which brought the world premiere of T2 Trainspotting to Edinburgh – in helping to attract more attention from across the globe to the Capital.

The search for “business leaders” to take up non-paid, non-executive director roles on the board of Marketing Edinburgh, has now begun.

An advert for the position promises “A fantastic opportunity to help shape the way in which Edinburgh is perceived throughout the world,” with the company specifically targeting those with experience in the business, education, marketing and tourism sectors.

And according to Marketing Edinburgh chair Gordon Robertson, the newly created positions reflect the evolving needs of the business.

Mr Robertson said: “Edinburgh is changing and we recognise we have to move with the times.

“These roles present a fantastic opportunity for a few people to come in and make a big difference to the way the city is seen, not just nationally, but globally.

“It’s not a role to be taken lightly, this is for people who have a real business and marketing acumen, but it is a big chance to shape the worldwide perception of the city.

“The next few months signal an exciting time for Edinburgh. By evolving, we’ll be more nimble and better able to take advantage of emerging opportunities. We’ll meet more regularly and decisions will be made more quickly.”

The organisation has been central to attracting international campaigns and events to the city and was pivotal in bringing the world premiere of Trainspotting sequel T2 to Fountainbridge last month.

The non-executive directors will be joined on the reshaped board by Mr Robertson as well as the chief executive of Marketing Edinburgh, John Donnelly, plus three city councillors to be determined after elections in May.

However Mr Robertson said that holding a position of authority was not necessary to join the board.

He said: “There’s no such thing as an ideal candidate in this situation; just someone with the passion, drive and clarity for the Capital.

“That’s what it is going to come down to, who is the most passionate about the city and who is willing to take on the commitment.

“The roles are unpaid so they’re really targeted at people who have that drive to succeed as part of our team.”

Anyone interested in the role can apply by sending a CV and covering note FAO Scott Black at [email protected] clearly marked “Marketing Edinburgh NED Appointments” no later than midnight on Friday, February 24.