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- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives and support senior leaders in a dynamic public sector environment.
- Company: Major central government body focused on impactful organisational change.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, opportunity to influence policy, and work with senior officials.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public service and shape the future of government operations.
- Qualifications: Experience in central government, strategic leadership, and strong communication skills.
- Other info: 6-month contract with potential for significant career advancement.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 75600 £ per year.
A major central government body is seeking a highly capable Interim Chief of Staff to provide strategic leadership, operational coordination, and executive-level support during a period of significant organisational change and heightened delivery demands. This role requires a strong grounding in public policy, political science, or public administration, ideally supported by an advanced qualification such as an MPA.
The successful Public Sector Chief of Staff will bring a well-developed mix of strategic insight, organisational management, and exceptional communication skills, typically gained through senior experience in management, project leadership, or executive support functions. As Interim Chief of Staff, you will act as a trusted adviser to senior leaders, driving effective prioritisation, strengthening governance arrangements, and providing oversight across key programmes within a complex, high-profile public-sector environment. The ideal candidate will have substantial government experience and the ability to operate with pace, professionalism, and diplomacy.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Executive Office and ensure smooth, effective operation of executive-level decision-making.
- Provide strategic insight, challenge, and direction to support organisational priorities and cross-government programmes.
- Coordinate high-impact projects and ensure alignment across directorates and partner bodies.
- Produce and quality-assure high-level briefings, papers, and communications for senior officials and external stakeholders.
- Drive forward governance, performance monitoring, and risk management processes.
- Build strong relationships with ministers' offices, senior civil servants, and key external partners.
- Represent senior leaders at internal and external meetings where appropriate.
About You
Essential:
- Significant experience working in central government or a major public-sector department.
- Proven background in executive support, strategic leadership, or senior advisory roles.
- Strong political acumen, discretion, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes.
- Skilled in managing high-paced, ambiguous environments with competing priorities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce authoritative briefings.
- Knowledge of public sector finance, performance frameworks, or governance standards.
Desirable:
- Experience within transformation, change management, or organisational improvement programmes.
This is an opportunity to influence strategic direction at a senior level within central government, support major public-sector priorities, and drive meaningful organisational impact.
Interim Chief of Staff - Public Sector (Inside IR35) employer: Cedar Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Cedar Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Chief of Staff - Public Sector (Inside IR35)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the public sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on current public policy issues and the specific challenges facing the organisation you're applying to. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely invested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds!
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job openings. We’re always updating our listings, and applying directly through us can give you a better chance of standing out in the crowd!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Chief of Staff - Public Sector (Inside IR35)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in public policy and strategic leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities of the Interim Chief of Staff role.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written communication is crucial for this position, ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of jargon. We love a well-structured application that reflects your ability to produce high-level briefings.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Don’t forget to emphasise your significant experience in central government or similar environments. We’re looking for candidates who can navigate complex stakeholder landscapes and manage competing priorities effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to influence strategic direction within central government.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cedar Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on public policy, political science, and public administration. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in the public sector, especially those relevant to central government. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects in high-pressure environments. Highlight your strategic insight and how you've navigated complex stakeholder landscapes. This will help the interviewers see you as a capable leader who can handle the demands of the role.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Prepare to discuss how you've produced high-level briefings and communications in the past. Being able to convey your ideas effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Build Relationships
Think about how you've built strong relationships with senior officials and external partners in your previous roles. Be ready to discuss your approach to relationship management and how it has benefited your projects. This will show that you understand the importance of collaboration in a public-sector environment.
