At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Secretary of State in promoting Scotland's interests and managing key projects.
- Company: Join the dynamic Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, Private Office Allowance, and opportunities for travel across Scotland.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with excellent networking opportunities and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's representation in the UK Government.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, political awareness, and ability to work under pressure.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland supports the Secretary of State in promoting the best interests of Scotland within a stronger United Kingdom. It ensures Scottish interests are fully and effectively represented at the heart of the UK Government, and the UK Government's responsibilities are fully and effectively represented in Scotland.
We are seeking a motivated and ambitious individual to join the Private Office Directorate as Assistant Private Secretary to the Secretary of State for Scotland. The successful candidate's portfolio will focus specifically on science and technology, the environment and rural affairs, and culture and sport, although this may change depending on business need and the Secretary of State's priorities. The role involves close collaboration with the Secretary of State, Private Secretaries, Special Advisors and officials within the Scotland Office.
Requirements include impeccable organisational skills, strong written and verbal briefing skills, confidence in judgment, strong political awareness, the ability to work independently at pace, and the ability to deliver through others across Whitehall. The role demands flexibility, responsiveness to ministerial direction, pride in high-quality timely work, and a proven track record of delivering under pressure. It requires unsociable hours including weekends when required, and a Private Office Allowance will be payable while in post. The position is based in London at the Scotland Office in Dover House, requires regular in-person responsibilities and frequent travel around Scotland, and is not suitable for part-time or job-share arrangements. Position level is HEO, and candidates must hold Security Clearance (SC).
Key Responsibilities- Deliver a sleek, professional and high standard of service to the Secretary of State in a high-pressure environment.
- Build working relationships with officials across the Scotland Office and develop an extensive cross-Whitehall network within the brief.
- Identify potential issues early, mindful of political sensitivities, and keep Ministers and senior colleagues across the department appraised.
- Take responsibility and ownership for the quality of advice that goes to the Secretary of State, working with officials during the policy process to communicate preferences and actively shape advice.
- Commission briefings and submissions, provide background and handle advice, and produce thoughtful, high-quality box notes to guide decision-making and provide essential context.
- Translate the Secretary of State's asks into tangible and deliverable action.
- Work creatively and kindly, remaining cognisant of resourcing pressures unique to a small Office.
- Experience working in a pressurised, fast-paced environment requiring high levels of personal organisation and resilience.
- Experience working in a private office, either directly or through working as a locum.
We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles. As a Disability Confident employer, the Civil Service is committed to providing everyone with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and to make adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Assistant Private Secretary to the Secretary of State for Scotland employer: Ministry of Justice
The Office of the Secretary of State for Scotland offers a dynamic and impactful work environment where employees are at the forefront of representing Scottish interests within the UK Government. With a strong emphasis on professional development, collaboration, and high-quality service delivery, this role provides unique opportunities to engage with key stakeholders across Whitehall while contributing to significant policy areas such as science, technology, and culture. Located in London, the office fosters a supportive culture that values resilience and adaptability, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful public service careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Private Secretary to the Secretary of State for Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get in touch with people already working in the Scotland Office or similar roles. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on current affairs, especially around science, technology, and Scottish issues. Show us you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely passionate about the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your organisational skills! Think of scenarios where you had to juggle multiple tasks under pressure. We want to see how you handle the heat and still deliver top-notch work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Private Secretary to the Secretary of State for Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to see how you can bring value to the Secretary of State's office, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Organisational Skills:Given the fast-paced nature of this role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your impeccable organisational skills. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate how you've successfully managed multiple tasks under pressure.
Highlight Your Political Awareness:This position requires a strong understanding of political sensitivities. Make sure to include any relevant experiences that showcase your ability to navigate complex political landscapes and maintain professionalism in high-pressure situations.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key areas of the role, especially science and technology, environment, and culture. Brush up on current issues affecting Scotland and how they relate to UK government policies. This will show your political awareness and ability to engage with the Secretary of State's priorities.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your impeccable organisational skills. Think about times when you’ve successfully managed multiple tasks under pressure. Being able to demonstrate this will reassure them that you can handle the fast-paced environment of a private office.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the interviewers. Discuss your experience working collaboratively and how you’ve developed relationships across teams. This role requires close collaboration, so showing you can work well with others is crucial.
✨Be Ready for Pressure
Expect questions about how you handle stress and tight deadlines. Prepare specific examples of when you’ve delivered high-quality work under pressure. This will illustrate your resilience and ability to thrive in a demanding role.
