We are the UK Government’s independent adviser on sustainable development. Through advocacy, advice and
appraisal, we help put sustainable development at the heart of Government policy

Our People

Our Commissioners

At the time of closing the SDC had 10 out of an original 16 Commissioners from a range of academic, scientific, business and NGO backgrounds. Our Commissioners play a central role in developing and steering our work. Commissioners generally work closely with staff on our projects, and often act as spokespeople for the SDC.

Commissioners are recruited via a public appointments process and are appointed by the Prime Minister and the First Ministers of the Devolved Administrations. The term of employment is for three years, and Commissioners serve for a maximum of six years.

Commissioners provide a minimum of 18 working days each year, and the Commission meets formally at least four times each year.

The Commissioners are led by SDC Chair, Will Day. Our four Vice Chairs focus on developing relationships across Whitehall and with Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

» View our Commissioner list 

 Our Board

The SDC Board manages the business of the SDC.

Its responsibilities include:

  • Overview of the SDC's strategic aims and objectives
  • Effective delivery of work programmes in Whitehall and the Devolved Administrations
  • Review of the SDC's finances, including proper management of public funds in accordance with the SDC's statutory obligations (link to money in money out?)
  • Communication with sponsor departments.

Full information on the responsibilities of the Board can be found in our Framework Agreement.

» View our Board member biographies

Our staff

At the start of the 2010-2011 financial year, the SDC employed around 60 staff, with offices in Whitehall, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast. The work of our staff consisted mainly in:

  • Carrying out policy research and analysis
  • Working on a day to day basis with Government Departments
  • Liaising with Commissioners
  • Providing corporate support  

» View our Senior Management Team