Job Description

The Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) is an Agency of the Scottish Government responsible for the assessment and payment of student financial support for Scottish Students studying within the UK.

SAAS administer budgets of around £1.4 billion each year, making payments to both higher education institutions and over 160,000 students a year. We are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that is representative of the clients we serve.

This appointment sits within SAAS’ Corporate Office, which is responsible for coordinating executive activity, supporting governance structures, and ensuring effective communication across SAAS. The Senior Executive Assistant is a key role within this function, responsible for delivering high-quality executive support and maintaining continuity of business during a critical period.

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised individual to join our Corporate Office as a Senior Executive Assistant on a fixed-term maternity cover basis.

This is a high-profile role providing essential executive, governance and corporate support to the Chief Executive, Directors and Non-Executive Board Members. The postholder will play a central role in supporting strategic decision-making and ensuring the effective running of executive and governance functions across the organisation.

Responsibilities

• Providing strategic executive support to the Chief Executive and Directors, exercising initiative and maintaining confidentiality.

• Managing executive diaries, correspondence, and group mailboxes, ensuring timely and effective handling of business.

• Leading secretariat support for Executive Team and Board meetings, including agenda planning, minute-taking, and tracking actions.

• Acting as a key interface between senior leadership and internal/external stakeholders.

• Maintaining corporate governance records and assurance documentation in line with required standards.

• Supporting the coordination of ministerial and corporate business.

• This role is critical to maintaining operational continuity, governance compliance, and executive effectiveness throughout the maternity cover period.

Working Pattern

This role is a temporary position with an expected commitment of 10 months.

SAAS operates a 35‑hour working week with flexible and hybrid working options. Our hybrid model requires colleagues to attend the office six days per month, which includes one set day per week and two additional ad‑hoc days each month, scheduled according to business needs. SAAS also observes its own public holiday schedule and is fully closed between Christmas and New Year.

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).

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 SAASCorporateOffice@gov.scot

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