Job Description

The Directorate for Culture and External Affairs (DCEA) brings together the Scottish Government’s work on Culture, Population and Migration, International Climate Change, External Affairs and International Development. The Directorate leads on engaging at home and internationally to enhance Scotland’s reputation and increase sustainable economic growth, pursue our interests overseas and strengthen our international relationships and partnerships. This post sits within the International Strategy and Reputation division, which aims to strengthen Scotland’s international impact by:

• Communicating with international audiences and helping to build and develop Scotland’s reputation as the best place to live, work, study, visit and do business.
• Developing and implementing the international strategy for Scotland with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Engaging on the international elements of inter-governmental relations across the UK and the development of our network of international offices.
• Improving Scotland’s economic and social wellbeing and influence by realising internationally the full benefits of our assets, including brand, sports, culture, events and values-based policies.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior leadership across the full remit of international communications team, as we develop our future offering to deliver PfG 2026-2031 commitments.
• Act as the lead international communications consultant for the Directorate, providing advice to the Directorate Management Team on strategic priorities, and co-creating alongside Scottish Government Communications colleagues, our communications approach in support of Scotland’s International Strategy.
• Lead a strategic, coherent approach to communications planning, digital and media engagement and branding across the international network and domestic policy teams, championing collaborative working with SG communications colleagues.
• Work closely with officials and relevant SG News and Marketing teams to plan, deliver within budget and evaluate communications and marketing activity that advances policy objectives, enhances Scotland’s reputation and supports international ministerial travel.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key internal stakeholders and Brand Scotland partners, such as VisitScotland and Scottish Enterprise, enabling effective networks of influence and information-sharing.
• Deputise for the Unit Head for International Communications and Branding, as required, and provide support on Brand Scotland matters including budget management and policy.
• Work with the new C1 Soft Power Team to develop and deliver strategic activity for Scotland’s Global Moments and Major Events.

Working pattern

This role is a permanent level transfer position.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive C1 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.

Further Information

If you have specific questions about the role, please contact Jane.Holligan@gov.scot

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