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.

Are you interested in a job that directly relates to the delivery of an essential public service that ensures our buildings are safe places to live and work? Building Standards Division is looking for a Verification Service Manager with experience of driving performance improvements to public services and frequent engagement with local authorities to join Practice Unit.

You will report to the Head of Practice Unit and work across the three Units in the division to support an ambitious programme of work to strengthen the building standards system so that Scotland’s buildings are safe, sustainable and energy efficient. This is an important time for the division as we deliver key improvements overseen by the Building Standards Futures Board and respond directly to the recommendations in the Grenfell Inquiry’s final report.

The post requires frequent working with local authorities in their role as building standards verifiers and other external partners from across the construction sector. You will be responsible for monitoring the performance of local authorities in their role as building standards verifier which includes the collection and analysis of key performance outcome data. Core elements of the role are managing the programme of engagements to discuss aspects of the Operating Framework and Performance Framework for Verifiers, analysing quarterly performance data and assuring business planning activities are suitable for the effective delivery of the building standards system.

You will also take forward new work to introduce a rolling programme of audits of verifiers from October 2026. The audit programme will be delivered by an external contractor. The post holder will provide contract management and ongoing support to ensure the programme is delivered successfully over the next five years. Engagement with Local Authority Building Standards Scotland and the Scottish Building Standards Hub is key to positive partnership working.

The post sits within the Practice Unit, alongside the team responsible for procedures and workforce. A key feature of the role will be to build effective working relationships with colleagues across the division and with external partners representing the interests of local authority building standards verifiers.

The office location is Denholm House in Livingston and in-person days are expected to take place in Denholm House each week as set out in the hybrid working policy.

Responsibilities

• Supporting the Head of Practice Unit and Deputy Director to deliver key priorities and areas of work with a focus on leading all activities to engage with local authorities on performance improvement plans to strengthen delivery of the building standards system across Scotland.
• Managing quarterly data collections to monitor performance against the Performance Framework for Verifiers and advising Ministers on trends and issues to support decisions on future appointment of verifiers.
• Participating in regular engagement meetings with local authorities to address performance issues including advising on the application of the Operating and Performance Frameworks for Verifiers and reviewing key performance outcomes, targets and measures to ensure these remain valid and challenging to drive improvements.
• Planning and managing a rolling programme of audits of the building standards verification service delivered by local authorities.
• Defining research specifications and delivering projects that provide an evidence base for improvements and carrying out consultation on proposals for change.
• Line management of one B2 to support all data collection and analysis work and one B1 responsible for business management and admin support for the Deputy Director.
• Working collaboratively with Local Authority Building Standards Scotland and the Scottish Building Standards Hub on shared goals for the verification service and improvements to the building standards system.

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).

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 allan.rodden@gov.scot

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