At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Law Officers by managing communications and ensuring effective briefing.
- Company: Join the dynamic Private Office for the Law Officers in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Gain invaluable experience in a high-profile government environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and networking in the justice sector.
- Why this job: Be at the heart of decision-making and influence key legal matters.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and ability to build relationships are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This is an Expression of Interest (EOI) opportunity, available on a lateral move basis only. Applications are open to Core Scottish Government employees only.
Location – Crown Office, Chambers Street, Edinburgh
Working Arrangement – This post requires the successful candidate to be based at least 3 days a week in the Law Officers Private Office in the Crown Office at 25 Chambers Street in Edinburgh although the Scottish Government hybrid working will apply when necessary.
An exciting vacancy has arisen in the Private Office. We’re looking for someone motivated, organised and confident to join the Law Officers’ Private Office as Deputy Private Secretary to the Law Officers (Lord Advocate and Solicitor General). Private Office sits right at the heart of government, acting as the link between Ministers and officials. You’ll help make sure the Law Officers have the right advice and briefing at the right time, across both Scottish Government and Crown Office business.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a high-profile, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. You’ll get a real insight into how decisions are made at the highest level, from Cabinet and Parliament through to COPFS business. It’s a busy and sometimes demanding role, but it’s also hugely interesting, rewarding and a great chance to build your experience, networks and confidence.
You’ll play a key role in keeping the Private Office running smoothly.
Responsibilities- Being a reliable and approachable point of contact for the Law Officers, colleagues and stakeholders
- Managing two busy ministerial inboxes (SG and COPFS) and making sure requests for advice and briefing are handled quickly and effectively
- Supporting the Law Officers to deliver their priorities, including leading on complex and high-profile work
- Keeping on top of a wide and varied workload, including:
- Ministerial submissions
- Criminal and death casework
- Correspondence
- Internal and external engagements
- Helping plan and support visits and engagements (UK and overseas), making sure briefings are in place and follow-up actions are taken
- Making sure the Law Officers’ time is used as effectively as possible, with space to properly prepare for meetings, court work and engagements
- Building strong working relationships across the Scottish Government, UK Government, COPFS and the wider justice sector
- Handling FOI requests for the office
- Supporting and developing a B1 colleague, helping the team deliver and stay resilient
- Dealing with sensitive (and sometimes difficult) information with care and professionalism
- Experience of building good working relationships with colleagues, being flexible in approach and having confidence to challenge and influence.
- Strong planning and organisational skills whilst managing competing priorities.
- Delivering at Pace
- Leadership
- Communications and Influencing
- Making Effective Decisions
This post requires the successful candidate to be based in person at least 3 days a week in the Law Officers Private Office in the Crown Office at 25 Chambers Street in Edinburgh although the Scottish Government hybrid working will apply when necessary. Requirement to work outside of normal business hours and be available to work evening, weekend and often public holidays as necessary. Our private office participates in on-call evening and weekend cover of Law Officers mailboxes. This is on a rota basis and attracts an on-call allowance and overtime in accordance with Scottish Government policy.
How to applyApply online by providing your CV and expression of interest, which should be no longer than 750 words and should explain why this would be a great opportunity for you at this stage in your career and what you would bring to the role. The note should confirm that you have discussed the opportunity with your line manager and that they would be content to release you quickly if the application is successful.
Vacancies close at 11:59pm on the date displayed in the table, unless otherwise stated on the job advert.
InterviewsInterviews to be confirmed.
For information on this post please contact Andrew Corr at Andrew.Corr@gov.scot or Rachael Mclean at Rachael.Mclean@gov.scot
Deputy Private Secretary employer: Scottish Government
The Scottish Government offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, where you can make a significant impact on customer service and safeguarding across Scotland. With a strong focus on employee development and innovation, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while working alongside a dedicated team committed to excellence in public service. Join us in shaping a high-performing organisation that values collaboration and strives for transformative results.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Private Secretary
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Scottish Government, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
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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 Scottish Government and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
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We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Private Secretary
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 Government 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 Government
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Scottish Government, 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 Government.
