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 Social Security Directorate is responsible for the largest and most complex transfer of powers since devolution, delivering a radically different benefits system and overseeing development and implementation of policies designed to alleviate poverty and support disabled people to live full and independent lives.

We now have a rare vacancy to join the Directorate’s fast-moving, friendly and informal Parliamentary Unit, which writes and co-ordinates extensive Ministerial & SCS briefing on social security issues, as well as overseeing the Directorate’s legislative programme.

The post holder will have strong opportunities for exposure to Ministers and will work with colleagues from across the Directorate, Social Security Scotland and beyond to work on high-profile Parliamentary set pieces with considerable scope for career development in a supportive and collegiate environment.

This role would suit someone who can establish successful relationships with a wide range of SG stakeholders and the successful candidate should be able to demonstrate positive relationship building and strong people skills.

The role will also require considerable political acuity and strong analytical and strategic thinking in response to often complex policy scenarios to support the provision of timely and accurate briefing.

This post will suit a proactive individual who leads by example and thrives on the unexpected, providing significant development opportunities for the right candidate, with members of the unit previously moving to a wide-range of promoted posts, including in private offices, strategic resilience and key SG policy roles.

As part of a small unit, you will be expected to work collaboratively and flexibly to support the priorities of the Unit and Division, adapting to a shifting policy environment and reprioritising activities to respond to emerging needs.

The unit consists of 1 x C2, 2 x C1 (3 x C1 once this post is recruited), 2 x B3 (3 x B3 once recruitment is completed) 2 x B2 and 1 x B1

Key Responsibilities

• To lead on a programme to review legislative regulations on each of our main benefits to confirm policy intent is appropriately met and reflected in day-to-day delivery practice.
• To lead and co-ordinate the directorate’s work with comms colleagues both in SG news & Social Security Scotland to facilitate efficient preparation of effective external comms positions.
• To work closely with the two existing C1 post-holders to ensure continuity and consistency in C-band leadership and oversight in the unit as a whole.
• To build successful and credible relationships with wider Scottish Government colleagues and internal stakeholders.

Working Pattern:

This role is a permanent level transfer position.

How to Apply

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

Vacancies close at 12:00pm on Thursday 9 April 2026.

Selection Process

All applicants will be invited to an informal discussion. There will be no formal testing or assessment.

Discussions are expected to be scheduled for w/c tbc.

Further Information

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

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