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.

Do you have excellent people skills with the ability to build strong relationships with colleagues at all levels across government? Are you interested in joining a dynamic, supportive and motivated team? If so, this is a unique role working right at the centre of Government with unparalleled access to Ministers, Special Advisers, senior stakeholders and all grades across the organisation.

Ministerial Private Office skills and experience are highly sought after which will serve individuals well for their future career. Time spent in Ministerial Private Office will mean that you learn and understand the intricacies of Parliamentary and Cabinet business whilst observing decision making at its highest level in Government.

You will be part of a team that ensures a first class service is offered to Ministers and policy colleagues. You will be seen as a role model and reflect behaviours and values in line with the Civil Service Code representing both Ministers and the SG in a positive way.

The post is based in St Andrew’s House. In person support is required around 3 days per week for this role.

Key responsibilities

• Provide support to the Minister in all aspects of Ministerial business, including at meetings and accompanying them on external engagements.
• Line management of at least 1 member of staff.
• Providing a timely flow of information and advice on policy, communications, and logistics to and from the Minister;
• Work as part of the portfolio Private Office team, providing resilience and out of hours cover (on a pre agreed rota basis – on call allowances and overtime can be claimed if necessary);
• Establish and maintain good working relationships with internal colleagues (including communications, special advisers, policy unit and others) and external stakeholders.

Working Pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position

There is an expectation for this role that you will provide regular in person support in St Andrews House, Scottish Parliament, Bute House and support the First Minister on events both domestically and internationally. For this reason this post sits outwith the Scottish Government's standard hybrid working policy.

You are eligible to claim overtime for any hours worked in excess of 35 per week.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B2 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

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 MPORecruitment@gov.scot

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