Job Description

We are currently recruiting for a Personnel Security Team Leader to work for Security and Business Continuity (SBC) Unit. The Unit sits within the Workplace Division in the Directorate for Corporate Transformation and Workplace, responsible for Physical and Personnel Security, Business Continuity, and a Security Improvement Programme.

The Personnel Security Branch comprises two teams who are responsible for delivery of the personnel security programme encompassing National Security Vetting (NSV) and Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) pre-employment checking for contingent workers.

You will report to the Personnel Security Operations Manager (B2) and will work closely with other managers in SBC to ensure that processes are aligned and streamlined. The Personnel Security Team Leader will oversee the daily line management and casework of the BPSS and NSV teams and liaise with other Personnel Security managers to refine, improve and implement personnel security policy and operational processes.

• Manage six members of staff within Personnel Security – managing annual leave, updating rotas, arranging cover, reviewing flexi, offering training opportunities, conducting monthly conversations, carrying out weekly casework audits, and managing and improving operational outputs.
• Oversee both National Security Vetting (NSV) and Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) processes ensuring case work is being processed within agreed timescales. Process and review BPSS & NSV when necessary and handle personal sensitive data for both BPSS & NSV. Review and escalate (if necessary) any case work issues. For example, criminal record convictions, caveats for NSV or nationality requirements.
• Maintain and develop Desk Instructions (DIs) and FAQs relating to completion of both BPSS and NSV; and train current and new colleagues on any changes to both BPSS and NSV. Carry out regular workshops for different subjects within personnel security that the team are interested in.
• Check for the correct completion of BPSS applications and that all necessary identification and supporting evidence meets required criteria, ensuring that omitted information and documentation is obtained prior to completion and that established processes are always followed; and that relevant Management Information (MI) is provided in a timely fashion.
• Ensure payment arrangements for contracted digital Identity Service Providers (IDSPs) are timely and any licensing within the system is managed accordingly.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders in respect of BPSS and NSV requirements and on-going applications by e-mail and Microsoft Teams chat.
• Conduct periodic audits of Scottish Government (SG) Framework Agency BPSS arrangements to ensure compliance with Cabinet Office guidance and SG contractual standards.
• Support the B2 in new ways of working and provide any assistance required to change or adapt processes that will help improve them; and conduct any other reasonable duties commensurate with the post and the grade.

Working pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B1 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).

Selection Process

All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager.

Informal discussion dates tbc.

Please be advised this vacancy is open only to Priority Movers.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact stephen.hood@gov.scot

Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.