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About public appointments

Public appointments offer a fantastic opportunity to influence decisions that impact the lives of people in Wales and contribute to the development of policies and services that matter. 

Whether you are an experienced leader or someone bringing fresh perspectives, your skills, insights, and lived experiences can help shape the future of our nation. 

We are committed to making these appointments open, inclusive, and accessible to a wide range of talented individuals, ensuring that all voices have the chance to make a difference.

Public appointment opportunities

Use your experience to contribute to public life in Wales, with opportunities in sectors such as:

  • Health and social care
  • Educatioand skils
  • Culture, heritage and sport
  • Economy and infrastructure
  • Environment and sustainability

Understanding different types of boards

Public boards vary in their structure, responsibilities, and remuneration. It’s important to understand the different types:

Paid roles

Some board positions come with remuneration, typically for statutory bodies where members commit significant time and expertise.

Voluntary roles

Many boards operate on a voluntary basis, offering valuable experience and the chance to make a meaningful impact.

Advisory boards

Focus on providing independent insight and recommendations without direct governance responsibilities.

Regulatory and oversight bodies

These ensure compliance, uphold standards, and provide accountability within key sectors.

Each role offers a unique way to contribute. We aim to make all options clear so you can find the right fit.

New roles are advertised throughout the year, explore current opportunities or sign up for alerts.

Why join a public board?

By joining a public board you have the opportunity to help shape the policies and decisions that matter in Wales.

Being on a public board will also help you to develop your skills and provide experience that you can use in other areas of your life.

A role on a public board enables you to:

Influence key decisions

Help shape policies and decisions that matter to Wales.

Expand your expertise

Gain invaluable experience in leadership, governance, and public service.

Network with professionals

Work alongside experienced and passionate individuals who are dedicated to making a difference.

Champion diversity and inclusion

Be part of a team that values different perspectives and lived experiences.

Serve the public and give back

Make a meaningful contribution to your community and to public life in Wales.

Use your lived experience to drive change

Bring your unique perspective to the table and influence better outcomes.

Time commitment for public appointments

The time commitment for public appointments varies depending on the role, organisation, and level of responsibility. Before applying, it’s important to consider how much time you can dedicate.

Typical Commitments Include:

Board meetings

Most public bodies meet monthly or quarterly, with meetings lasting several hours.

Preparation time

Reading papers and preparing for discussions can take additional time.

Committee work

Some roles require participation in sub-committees, which may meet separately.

Engagements and events

Some roles involve public engagement, stakeholder meetings, or representing the organisation at events.

While some roles may require only a few days per year, others demand a more substantial commitment. 

The time expectations are always outlined in the role description, so ensure you review them carefully before applying

Conduct

All public appointments are guided by the Nolan Principles of Public Life. 

While the original 7 principles apply across the UK, Wales has expanded upon them with two additional principles, Respect and Transparency,  to reflect our inclusive, collaborative, and open approach to public service

The principles are:

1. Selflessness

Public office holders should act solely in terms of the public interest, not to gain personal benefit.

2. Integrity

Public office holders should avoid placing themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties.

3. Objectivity

Public office holders should act and make decisions impartially, fairly, and on merit, using the best evidence and without bias.

4. Accountability

Public office holders are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to scrutiny.

5. Openness

Public office holders should be as open as possible about their decisions and actions and should give reasons for their decisions.

6. Honesty

Public office holders should be truthful and act with honesty in the performance of their duties.

7. Leadership

Public office holders should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.

8. Respect

Public office holders should respect others, their views, and their rights to express differing opinions, working in a constructive manner to serve the public interest.

9. Transparency

Public office holders should ensure that their actions are transparent, allowing the public to see the reasons behind their decisions.

These principles guide how public officials in Wales are expected to conduct themselves, ensuring trust, fairness, and integrity in public service.

Who can apply

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and walks of life. 

You don’t need previous board experience. We value passion, lived experience, and a commitment to public service. 

If you bring fresh ideas, strategic thinking, and a willingness to learn, we encourage you to consider a public appointment.

What We Look For:

  • A commitment to public service and fairness
  • Independent thinking and fresh perspectives
  • A willingness to challenge and innovate
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills

First-Time Non-Executive Directors (NEDs)

If you haven’t sat on a board before, don’t worry – we actively encourage first-time Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) to apply. We understand that stepping into a board role can feel daunting, so we’re developing tailored support to help you succeed.

We aim to provide:

Introductory sessions

Learn the essentials of governance, accountability, and decision-making.

Networking opportunities

Connect with experienced board members and peers.

Guidance on application and interviewing

Practical advice to help you showcase your potential.

While our full programme is in development, we encourage anyone new to public appointments to reach out for information and informal guidance.

How to apply for a public appointment

Find out more about applying and get help with your application by reading our application guidance.

Current vacancies

If you want to see current vacancies, you can find a list on our recruitment pages.  

On these pages, you can also sign up to receive notifications about new vacancies as they become available. 

You can find other public board vacancies on the Boards Wales website.