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Senior Policy Adviser (2 roles), Scotland Office
The Scotland Office supports the Secretary of State in promoting the best interests of Scotland within a stronger United Kingdom. It ensures Scottish interests are fully and effectively represented at the heart of the UK Government, and the UK Government’s responsibilities are fully and effectively represented in Scotland.
The two roles sit within the Rural Affairs and Public Services Team in the Policy Division of the Scotland Office and can be based in either Edinburgh or London. The Policy Division is divided into small teams with each team leading on specific policy area priorities. The Rural Affairs and Public Services team is responsible for UK Government policy interests in rural affairs, health, education, culture and faith and equalities policy.
Role 1 - Public Services Policy Lead: This role will lead on the policy areas of health, including monitoring Covid-19 recovery developments and culture, including supporting Ministers in visits across Scotland. You will also manage and support an HEO in leading on education and faith and equality interests.
Role 2 - Rural Affairs Policy Lead: This role will lead on policy areas in the rural space, including considering issues from a UKG perspective that may impact on agriculture and fisheries sectors in Scotland. You will support and manage up to two HEOs and support Ministers in leading the Scottish Seafood Industry Action Group and in attending Inter-Governmental meetings in the remit of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Given the devolved nature of these policy areas, these roles are an interesting opportunity to understand Scottish Government priorities from a UK Government perspective and consider where the UK Government can add value within the boundaries of the constitutional settlement. The team is headed by a Grade 7 and works closely with other Scotland Office Divisions, as well as lead UKG departments and the other Territorial Offices, as appropriate. The team engages closely with key stakeholders, managing and developing relationships to inform Scotland Office positions.
The Rural Affairs and Public Services Team is looking for individuals who will bring positive energy, creativity and collaboration to the team. You will develop relationships across UK Government, with external stakeholders and the Scottish Government and its agencies. You will ensure Scotland Office Ministers are kept up to date with key activities and initiatives in Scotland and support Ministers and other UKG departments on opportunities to promote UK Government policy in Scotland.
The Roles
These are fast paced, high output and varied roles, including, but not limited to:
- Providing advice and support to the Secretary of State, Ministers and Special Advisors on your relevant policy areas;
- Working with other Government departments to influence, develop and implement plans to deliver UKG business in Scotland and ensure policy developed in Whitehall supports needs and opportunities across Scotland;
- Represent the Scotland Office in Whitehall and externally at meetings, working groups, events and with key stakeholders; and
- Leadership and management of HEOs within the team.
Person Specification
Essential criteria
- Ability to prepare clear and succinct policy advice, recommendations and briefings to Government Ministers, Special Advisors and senior colleagues.
- Ability to manage and respond appropriately to Ministerial and official correspondence and Government write-rounds.
- Effective communication and networking skills to secure confidence with those you are engaging with.
- Demonstrable experience of working across more than one policy area.
Desirable criteria
- Experience of working in a fast-paced environment, with high levels of personal autonomy.
- Knowledge of the Scottish political landscape and the Devolution Settlement.
Selection process details
The application process will assess the experience and behaviours elements of the Success Profiles. To assess experience, the process will require candidates to provide a name-blind (anonymous) CV which includes job history and full qualification details. A name-blind statement of suitability is also required. Further details are provided during the application process.
Should a large number of applications be received, an initial sift may be conducted using the lead behaviour, Leadership. Candidates who pass the initial sift may be progressed to a full sift, or progressed straight to assessment/interview.
Behaviours
We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
- Leadership
- Delivering at Pace
- Making Effective Decisions
- Communicating and Influencing
Strengths may also be assessed at interview but these are not shared in advance.
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