At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Permanent Secretary in high-level decision-making and manage complex operational agencies.
- Company: Join a key role within the UK Government, influencing justice policy and ministerial priorities.
- Benefits: Flexible working options and an annual Private Office allowance of £11,400.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with unparalleled exposure to senior government operations.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on the justice system while working at the heart of government.
- Qualifications: Exceptional judgement, political awareness, and leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.
This is one of the most senior and visible Private Office roles in Government, offering a unique opportunity to work at the centre of Civil Service and ministerial decision-making and support the Permanent Secretary for one of government’s biggest and most complex departments.
As Principal Private Secretary, you will play a pivotal role in enabling the Permanent Secretary to fulfil a wide-ranging portfolio of responsibilities spanning justice policy, constitutional matters and cross-government priorities. You will help her provide high quality advice to the Lord Chancellor and ministerial team, oversee the running of complex operational agencies and play a leading role with other Heads of Department across government.
You will be a trusted advisor to the Permanent Secretary and lead two Heads of Office who manage the Private Offices for the Permanent Secretary and Second Permanent Secretary. You will provide effective leadership to ensure that they receive the right advice, briefing and support at the right time.
The role sits at the centre of a complex network of relationships across the department, Whitehall and the wider justice system. You will work closely with Executive Team members and their teams, the Cabinet Office, No10, HM Treasury and ministerial Private Office, ensuring that emerging issues, strategic priorities and sensitive matters are managed effectively.
You will have a close working relationship with your counterpart Principal Private Secretary to the Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice. This is a demanding but highly rewarding leadership role that requires exceptional judgement, political awareness, resilience and the ability to operate confidently in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment.
It offers unparalleled exposure to the workings of government at the highest levels and the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the delivery of ministerial priorities and the effective functioning of the justice system.
This role attracts an annual Private Office allowance of £11,400.
We will assess your experience for this role via the following methods: CV or Work History, Statement of Suitability.
Guidance for the Statement of Suitability: You may not be progressed to the next stage of the assessment process if you do not provide this evidence. When structuring your Statements try to group evidence of the same experience skills together by using subheadings and paragraphs. This will help to ensure you are writing about the experience that is directly relevant for the role you are applying for. You should ensure that you detail recent and relevant examples of the essential experience required for the role and describe the outcome that came from this.
Evidence of Experience: CV or Work History, Statement of Suitability, Interview stage assessments.
Behaviours: Delivering at Pace, Managing a Quality Service, Working Together.
Level of security checks required: Developed Vetting (DV).
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action.
Principal Private Secretary to the Permanent Secretary in City of Westminster employer: Ministry of Justice
The Ministry of Justice is an exceptional employer, dedicated to transforming lives through education and vocational training. With a strong emphasis on supportive relationships and personal development, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that prioritises safety and security while offering opportunities for professional growth and meaningful impact in the community. Working in this role not only allows you to make a difference but also provides a unique chance to contribute to the rehabilitation and resettlement of individuals in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Private Secretary to the Permanent Secretary in City of Westminster
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Ministry of Justice and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
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Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Private Secretary to the Permanent Secretary in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Ministry of Justice and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Ministry of Justice, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Ministry of Justice.
