Job Description

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

The Equality, Inclusion & Human Rights Directorate’s mission is to ensure equality, inclusion and human rights are at the centre of everything the Scottish Government does, promoting equality, tackling discrimination and fostering inclusion. The Mainstreaming and Inclusion Division drives actions to embed human rights and equality across government and the wider public sector, building capability and capacity to make deep and sustained progress on tackling inequality through better policy-making and service design.

The Strategic Team for Anti-Racism (STAR) leads Scotland’s cross-government work to tackle structural and systemic racism. Operating in a fast-paced, highly visible environment with significant political interest, STAR develops and delivers strategic policy to embed anti-racism across government and public services. This role requires resilience and the ability to manage complex, sensitive issues under scrutiny, balancing competing priorities while influencing diverse stakeholders. The successful candidate will play a leading role in the next phase of Scotland’s anti-racism work, implement and monitor a refreshed delivery plan aligned to the Race Equality Framework for Scotland (2016–2030), contribute to Scotland’s international treaty reporting obligations, and support wider community cohesion work, including providing reassurance and clear communication during times of uncertainty or heightened public concern. The postholder will also line-manage a B2 Policy Officer.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of a public-facing anti-racism delivery plan, ensuring alignment with the Race Equality Framework for Scotland (2016–2030).
• Provide strategic advice and support to senior leaders on anti-racism policy, including managing sensitive issues that attract scrutiny and involve balancing competing priorities.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including community organisations, public bodies, and internal teams, to ensure meaningful engagement and co-production.
• Monitor and report on progress against anti-racism commitments, ensuring transparency and accountability in delivery.
• Lead on capability-building initiatives to embed anti-racism principles in policy-making and service design across Scottish Government.
• Oversee operational delivery including ministerial briefings, PQs, correspondence and cross ‑government coordination; manage risks, dependencies and milestones.
• Lead and contribute to Scotland’s international treaty reporting obligations, ensuring accurate, timely submissions and alignment with human rights commitments.
• Support wider community cohesion work, including offering reassurance and clear messaging during periods of uncertainty or heightened sensitivity.

Working pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B3 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).

Vacancy closes at 11:59pm on Friday 14th August

Selection Process

All applications will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager.

Informal discussions are to be confirmed.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact Frankie McLean, frankie.mclean@gov.scot

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