At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the UK’s statistical system and provide expert advice to government leaders.
- Company: Join the Office for National Statistics, a key player in shaping UK policy.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension contributions, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse culture that values inclusion and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public policy and enhance the trustworthiness of official statistics.
- Qualifications: Proven expertise in statistics and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 144000 - 240000 £ per year.
Overview
The National Statistician is the expert adviser to the Government and the Authority Board on statistics and the head of the GSS. As set out in the 2007 Act, the National Statistician is the Board\'s principal adviser on the quality of official statistics, good practice in relation to official statistics, and the comprehensiveness of official statistics. The post has an important role in ensuring the trustworthiness of the statistical system used to inform UK government policy and leading the community of statisticians and analysts throughout government to deliver for the public good.
Responsibilities
- Provide expert statistical and methodological advice to the UK Statistics Authority Board, ONS Permanent Secretary, Parliament, ministers, the Cabinet Secretary and other senior officials on the production, dissemination and use of statistics across government.
- Work in partnership with the UK Statistics Authority Board to deliver its strategic priorities. This will include working with the ONS Permanent Secretary to support the ONS\'s recovery plans for core economic statistics and surveys, restoring capability and user confidence in its outputs. The National Statistician will focus on strategic methodological and statistical issues within ONS.
- Set a clear vision and standards for the GSS, demonstrating integrity and commanding the confidence of its members and users alike. Embrace the GSS Vision and help build statistical and analytical capability across the system.
- Build and maintain excellent relations with the Authority\'s independent regulator, the OSR, and its Director General for Regulation, working collaboratively while respecting its independence. OSR sets the standards official statistics must meet in the Code of Practice for Statistics and provides public assurance on whether statistics comply with the Code.
- Promote best practice and compliance with the Code of Practice for Statistics (and its pillars of Trustworthiness, Quality and Value) across the ONS and the GSS.
- Embrace innovation and address shared challenges across the UK and internationally (e.g. data gaps, statistical coherence, and technological advancements).
- Chairing the Inter-Administration Committee to work collaboratively with the Devolved Governments to deliver statistics the nation needs to support decision-making and you will represent the UK on the international statistical stage to share best practice and support the global good of statistics.
- Hold membership of the Civil Service top leadership cadre and the opportunity for strong networks with other senior advisers working in Government and the Civil Service.
Qualifications and experience
- A statistical expert with extensive professional knowledge and experience of statistics: you should be a credible and passionate advocate for statistics and have a proven track record of sound knowledge and experience in statistics and/or methodology and statistical research.
- Excellent analytical skills at the strategic level coupled with a strong intellect, with a track record and established profile as an authority and leader in the field of evidence and analysis, and a good understanding of the changing digital environment.
- Evidence of deploying professional skills in a way that commands the respect of statisticians, a thorough understanding of official statistics and how they serve the needs of a range of users including the public, Parliament and government.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain and communicate the importance of statistics to a range of stakeholders including Parliamentarians, the media and the general public. Able to operate credibly on the international stage.
- Exceptional leadership and influencing skills, with a proven ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder relationships and navigate potentially conflicting interests to gain confidence of ministers, Parliament, the public. This includes a track record of raising standards and improving services by effectively motivating others and ensuring the development of user-focused products while maintaining technical quality.
Security, independence and values
Security Successful candidates must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is developed vetting. People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard checks. To help you succeed in this role, you must have a strong commitment to the Civil Service values of impartiality, honesty, integrity and objectivity, and be committed to the independence of statistical production from Government.
Other information
- Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
- Alongside your salary of £200,000, the Office for National Statistics contributes £57,940 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.
- Learning and development tailored to your role
- An environment with flexible working options
- A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
- A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%
Application documents
- Your CV, with educational and professional qualifications and full employment history, including an explanation of any gaps in your employment history, and details where possible of budgets and numbers of people.
- A short covering statement of no more than two A4 sized pages (1000 words) explaining why this appointment interests you and how you can evidence your suitability for the role, with particular reference to the criteria in the \'relevant experience\' section.
- A Diversity Questionnaire: The Civil Service is committed to achieving a workforce that reflects the society it serves. This form will not be disclosed to anyone involved in assessing your application. Please note that applications will not be accepted unless the form is completed. If you do not wish to provide a response to a particular question, you should complete the \'prefer not to say\' option.
- A completed Declaration of Interests form. Please note that applications will not be accepted unless the form is returned. Details of two referees - these will only be contacted for shortlisted candidates, and not without prior notice.
- For further details on the recruitment process please see the attached candidate pack.
National Statistician in Newport employer: Office for National Statistics
As the National Statistician, you will be part of a prestigious organisation that values integrity, impartiality, and excellence in statistical practice. The role offers a unique opportunity to influence government policy and public understanding through high-quality statistics, while benefiting from a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development, flexible working options, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. With a generous pension scheme and the chance to engage with senior leaders across the Civil Service, this position is ideal for those seeking a meaningful and impactful career in statistics.
Contact Details:
Office for National Statistics Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land National Statistician in Newport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the statistics field on LinkedIn or at industry events. Building connections can lead to insider info about job openings and even referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your statistical knowledge and current trends. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the GSS's vision and tackle challenges in the statistical landscape.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've influenced change or improved processes in your previous roles. This will demonstrate your capability to manage complex relationships and drive results.
✨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 are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace National Statistician in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your educational and professional qualifications, and don’t forget to explain any gaps in your employment history. We want to see how your experience aligns with the role of National Statistician.
Write a Strong Covering Statement:This is your chance to shine! In no more than two A4 pages, tell us why this role excites you and how your skills match the criteria. Be specific about your relevant experience and show us your passion for statistics!
Complete All Required Forms:Don’t skip the Diversity Questionnaire or the Declaration of Interests form. These are essential for your application to be considered. If you’re unsure about any questions, just select 'prefer not to say'—it’s all good!
Provide Solid References:Make sure to list two referees who can vouch for your expertise and character. Just a heads up, we’ll only contact them if you’re shortlisted, and we’ll give you a shout beforehand!
How to prepare for a job interview at Office for National Statistics
✨Know Your Statistics Inside Out
As a National Statistician, you need to demonstrate your expertise in statistics and methodology. Brush up on key statistical concepts and be ready to discuss how they apply to real-world scenarios. Prepare examples from your past experience that showcase your analytical skills and how you've used statistics to inform decision-making.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
You’ll be explaining complex statistical concepts to a variety of stakeholders, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Use simple language when necessary and be prepared to answer questions from non-experts. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your communication style.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
The role requires exceptional leadership and influencing skills. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams or projects, especially in multi-stakeholder environments. Highlight your ability to motivate others and improve services while maintaining high technical standards.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the strategic priorities of the UK Statistics Authority and the Office for National Statistics. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their goals and address shared challenges in the statistical community. Showing that you understand the broader context will set you apart as a candidate.
