Policy Official - B2

This opportunity is only open to internal Scottish Government applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.

Expressions of interest are sought from existing B2s for an exciting opportunity to join the Local Government Strategy and Reform Team. This busy and rewarding role will support the team's work on public service reform and the future role of local government in Scotland, working closely with colleagues across Scottish Government and external partners including COSLA, SOLACE and others.

The post sits within the Local Government Division and works alongside colleagues responsible for Local Government Finance, Local Taxes and Local Government Relationships. The successful candidate will support the delivery of a range of policy and reform priorities, contributing to stakeholder engagement, policy development and analysis, and helping to ensure the effective delivery of ministerial commitments.

We are looking for a motivated and organised individual who enjoys working collaboratively, building relationships and managing a varied workload.

Key responsibilities

• Support the development of policy advice on local government reform and public service reform.

• Contribute to the planning and delivery of engagement activity with local government and wider public sector partners.

• Support briefing, correspondence, parliamentary business and responses to enquiries.

• Build and maintain productive relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.

• Contribute to research, analysis and the assessment of policy proposals affecting local government.

• Support wider projects and priorities across the Local Government Division as required.

Experience

• Experience of contributing to policy development, project delivery or stakeholder engagement work.

• Ability to analyse information from a range of sources and present evidence-based recommendations.

• Experience of building positive working relationships and working collaboratively.

• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.

• Good written and verbal communication skills.

Working pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position.

Our standard hours are 35 hours per week and we offer a range of flexible working options depending on the needs of the role, including Flexi-leave. Scottish Government staff in hybrid-compatible roles should aim to work in-person 40% of the time, either in an office or other agreed work location.

Further information

This is a priority area of work, please discuss the possibility of early release with your line manager in advance.

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact Sign in to view email or [email protected]

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B2 grade employees.

Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).

Vacancies close at 23:59pm on Monday 12 October.

Selection Process

All applicants will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager. There will be no formal testing or assessment.

Discussions are expected to be scheduled for w/c TBC

Recruitment Principles

As a government organisation, we adhere to the Civil Service Commission Recruitment Principles and we investigate any complaints received in relation to recruitment cases.