Edinburgh Visitor Levy Forum Chair
£ Day Rate
More information on the role can be found on the dedicated recruitment microsite at https://www.aspenpeople.co.uk/microsite/edinburgh/
The Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act became a law in September 2024. The legislation allows councils in Scotland to tax paid, overnight accommodation if they wish to do so. Following years of consultation, the Council has decided to use the powers set out in the Act for overnight stays on or after 24 July 2026.
The levy is expected to raise £45-50 million a year by 2028/29. The money generated by the scheme will be reinvested directly into initiatives that benefit residents and enhance visitor experiences.
The establishment of an Edinburgh Visitor Levy Forum is a requirement in the Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act. The remit of the Forum is advisory, to review, discuss and advise on the Edinburgh Visitor Levy scheme, including the evaluation of the scheme and any proposed modifications to be made. The Forum will also be consulted for views on how the proceeds of the Visitor Levy should be invested.
The Forum will be made up of an equal number of representatives from the community and from businesses in the city’s visitor economy and it is recommended that at least 40% of the representatives are women. Council officers and staff may also attend meetings but will not be constituent members of the Forum.
The Chair will provide independent, transparent, and effective leadership to the Edinburgh Visitor Levy Forum and will play a crucial role in managing discussions among a diverse range of stakeholders, fostering consensus, and ensuring that the Forum effectively fulfils its advisory and consultative remit.
The Chair will have a front row seat to discuss the varied investment programmes with stakeholders who want to maximise the positive impacts that a levy can bring across many Council services. They will also be integral to the review process of the levy scheme and the future of the levy in Edinburgh, understanding what impacts it has had on the city and whether any enhancements can be made.
More information on the role can be found on the dedicated recruitment microsite at https://www.aspenpeople.co.uk/microsite/edinburgh/
For a confidential discussion, please contact Catriona Mackie or David Currie at Aspen People on 0141 212 7555.
To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter (as one document) via the apply button. If you are unable to combine your documents, then please email your cover letter to applications@aspenpeople.co.uk
Closing date for applications: Monday 31 March 2025