At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead policy and research to shape Scotland's Good Food Nation ambitions.
- Company: Join the Scottish Food Commission, a new independent body focused on sustainable food systems.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and a secure civil service pension.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative leadership team in a dynamic, inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's food policies and engage with diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree or experience in public policy, research, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 59400 - 72600 £ per year.
About Us
The Scottish Food Commission was established as a new independent statutory body within the Good Food Nation (Scotland) Act 2022. The Commission’s purpose is to provide stewardship and oversight of Scotland’s Good Food Nation ambition, and to support progress towards a fairer, healthier and more sustainable food system for all. The Commission is now recruiting its first senior staff team. These initial roles will shape how the Commission operates, scrutinises evidence and policy, engages with relevant authorities and communities, and communicates its work with clarity, independence and impact.
We should at the outset make you aware that there is a Programme for Government (PfG) commitment for the Commission to be integrated into Food Standards Scotland, and with this planned integration is the possibility that organisational structures, policies and processes, as well as aspects of the roles may change over time. Whilst we do not expect these changes to be forthcoming imminently, if there are any changes before the appointment start date, these will be communicated with the successful candidate. We do not however expect there to be any changes to the role itself.
Equalities
The Scottish Food Commission is an inclusive organisation and we welcome applications from everyone irrespective of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion and belief, pregnancy and maternity, relationship status, disability, age and social class. We want this recruitment process to be inclusive. Candidates will be invited to tell us about any reasonable adjustments needed in relation to the application process, assessment exercise or interview.
The Role
The Head of Policy and Research is a senior leadership role with responsibility for the Commission’s policy scrutiny, research, evidence, data, analysis, expert advice and formal recommendations in relation to Scotland’s Good Food Nation. You will lead the Commission’s policy and research approach to scrutinising the national Good Food Nation Plan and relevant authority plans, ensuring that advice and recommendations are credible, independent, evidence-informed and practical.
This means that you’ll be trusted to use your policy insight and judgement to influence work that is ambitious, practical and focused on real progress for people and communities across Scotland. You will develop and maintain the Commission’s evidence and analytical frameworks, commission or support research where appropriate, and translate evidence into constructive policy advice for Scottish Ministers and relevant authorities, building strong foundations for the Commission’s evidence base.
You will work closely with the Head of Engagement and Communications to ensure policy and research are informed by diverse perspectives and communicated clearly, accessibly and impactfully, and with Corporate Services to ensure programmes are planned, governed and resourced effectively. The role requires strategic judgement, political awareness, strong analytical capability, an understanding of public policy, legislation and research methods, and the ability to translate complexity into practical, actionable advice.
As a member of the Senior Management Team, you will also have an organisational leadership role, working closely with the Chief Executive and other Heads of Function to ensure the Commission is effective, independent, collaborative and influential. This gives you the opportunity to be in a visible leadership role in a new organisation, working with supportive senior colleagues to help shape a collaborative, independent and influential Commission.
Scottish Food Commission Benefits
- 25 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days with service, plus Public Holidays
- Flexible working
- Salary sacrifice schemes
- Civil service pension scheme – some of the benefits include:
- member contribution rates among the lowest in the public sector
- tax relief on your contributions
- generous employer contributions
- a secure, inflation-proof pension for life, with no investment uncertainty
- the option of tax-free lump sum on retirement
- potential access to ill health and injury benefits if you become too ill to work
- life assurance cover
- benefits for loved ones and dependants
- keeping all your pensions in one place by transferring in a pension you have built up elsewhere
About You
Some of the skills you will need to be considered as our Head of Policy and Research:
- A relevant degree or equivalent professional experience
- Experience of working in a public policy, legislative, scrutiny, regulatory, research, evidence, data or analytical environment
- Strong awareness of food systems policy context
- Ability to lead policy review and influence and inform public policy
- Understanding of how policy, evidence, legislation, delivery and accountability interact
- Exemplary communication skills
- Proven ability to design, lead or commission research and evidence programmes
- Experience of managing research projects, external suppliers or expert input
- Proven ability to manage sensitive relationships and communicate complex messages clearly
- Ability to exercise sound judgement in a politically aware but independent manner
- Strong management skills and the ability to lead and empower staff
- Ability to provide organisational leadership
- Experience of business planning and budget management
- Current UK Driving Licence and willingness to travel
- Permission to work in the UK
Head of Policy and Research in Aviemore employer: Scottish Food Commission
The Scottish Food Commission is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of Scotland's food system while working in a flexible home-based environment. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and employee growth, the Commission provides generous benefits such as 25 days of annual leave, a civil service pension scheme, and the chance to be part of a pioneering team that values diverse perspectives and impactful engagement. Join us to make a meaningful difference in creating a fairer and more sustainable food landscape for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Policy and Research in Aviemore
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Policy and Research in Aviemore
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 Scottish Food Commission 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 Scottish Food Commission
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Scottish Food Commission, 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 Scottish Food Commission.
