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- Tasks: Lead the Scotland office, ensuring smooth operations and effective delivery of key workstreams.
- Company: Join the Electoral Commission, the UK's independent body overseeing elections and political finance.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working options, and the chance to influence democracy.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's democracy while engaging with senior political stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Management experience in public or third sector; strong understanding of parliamentary processes required.
- Other info: Flexible work plans and a dynamic environment await passionate leaders ready for a challenge.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 58000 £ per year.
The Electoral Commission, the independent body that oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK, is currently seeking an outstanding candidate to join our small but high-performing team in Scotland in the role of Manager. This is a senior and highly influential role within the Commission's devolved operations, second only to the Head of Office in Scotland, and offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the integrity and transparency of democracy in Scotland.
As Manager, you will have responsibility for the successful operation of the office, and your leadership will ensure that key workstreams are delivered effectively, internal operations run smoothly, and external expectations are met with professionalism and authority. Working closely with the Head of Scotland, you will provide oversight to major areas of policy, planning, communications, electoral administration, and regulatory activity.
A significant part of your remit will involve engaging with senior stakeholders across Scottish and UK politics. You will represent the Commission at meetings with Ministers, MSPs and government officials, and when required provide oral evidence to Scottish Parliament Committees. You will also play a central role in preparing key documents for Parliament, including the Annual Report and Accounts for the Scottish Parliament. Flexibility and adaptability will be crucial qualities, as workplans are subject to frequent shifts, often dictated by the political landscape.
You will be responsible for managing the Scotland Office's operational plans and budget, ensuring work progresses within agreed timescales and aligns with wider Commission strategy. This includes responding to public and stakeholder queries, overseeing policy development, contributing to election reviews, and ensuring that Scotland's electoral and regulatory environment is well understood within the Commission's wider UK context.
We are looking for a self-starting, confident leader with significant management and policy experience, ideally gained in a public or third sector environment. You should have a strong understanding of parliamentary processes and experience of engaging with senior political and governmental stakeholders. Familiarity with elections or regulatory work would be highly desirable, as would a sound grasp of the legislative and operational landscape governing electoral law and political finance in Scotland.
The successful candidate will be collaborative and resilient, capable of managing complexity and working under public scrutiny. If you are passionate about supporting democracy, thrive in a dynamic environment, and are ready to take on a visible leadership role with real impact, we would love to hear from you.
For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact David Currie at Aspen People on dcurrie@aspenpeople.co.uk or at 0141 212 7572.
Closing date: Monday 5th May
To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter (as one document) via the apply button. If you are unable to combine your documents, then please email your cover letter to applications@aspenpeople.co.uk.
Offers of appointment are subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.
Manager employer: Aspen People
Contact Detail:
Aspen People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Electoral Commission's recent reports and publications. Understanding their current priorities and challenges will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the public sector, especially those involved in electoral processes or political finance. Attend relevant events or webinars to build connections and gain insights that could be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by reflecting on your past experiences in management and policy roles. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed complex projects, and engaged with senior stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current political developments in Scotland and the UK. Being knowledgeable about recent changes in legislation or electoral processes will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you are proactive and well-informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the Manager position at the Electoral Commission. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should clearly express your passion for supporting democracy and your leadership capabilities. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your management skills and familiarity with parliamentary processes.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your significant management and policy experience, particularly in public or third sector environments. Include any direct engagement with political stakeholders and your understanding of electoral law and political finance.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects professionalism and attention to detail, which are crucial for a role that involves public scrutiny.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspen People
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you thoroughly understand the key responsibilities of the Manager position. Familiarise yourself with the Electoral Commission's operations, especially in Scotland, and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves engaging with senior stakeholders, think about your past experiences in similar situations. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully navigated complex stakeholder relationships and what strategies you used to communicate effectively.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Manager, showcasing your leadership abilities is crucial. Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've led teams or projects, highlighting your approach to managing complexity and ensuring successful outcomes under pressure.
✨Show Passion for Democracy
The role is centred around supporting democracy and electoral integrity. Be prepared to express your passion for these values and how they motivate you in your professional life. This will help convey your genuine interest in the position and the mission of the Electoral Commission.
