At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape Scotland's Census delivery and manage key contracts for impactful public services.
- Company: Join a vital part of the Scottish Government, delivering essential population statistics.
- Benefits: Permanent role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Other info: Be part of a large digital programme impacting 5.7 million people.
- Why this job: Make a difference in how Scotland plans its future through data-driven insights.
- Qualifications: Experience in contract management and stakeholder engagement is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Do you want to shape the delivery of Scotland’s Census, enabling governments and other public bodies to plan the services we all rely on, and telling the story of Scotland's people for generations to come? If so, this post could be for you.
We have an opportunity for an existing B3 to join the Census Programme as a Commercial and Contract Manager, to support delivery of the programme. We are the trusted producer of Scotland’s population statistics, including taking the Census of Scotland’s population every 10 years. The next Census is in 2031 and will be delivered in partnership with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency (NISRA). This is one of the largest digital programmes delivered in Scotland, gathering data from every household across a population of c.5.7m.
NRS is a Non-Ministerial Department of the Scottish Government and our staff are part of the UK Civil Service, working for Ministers and senior stakeholders to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland.
Reporting to the Head of Commercial and Contract Management, this position has specific responsibility for a portfolio of Census contracts, ensuring they optimise delivery, performance and provide value for money in a fast-paced, funding pressured environment. You should note that Scotland’s Census is a time-limited project which will run until 2032 depending on the role. Staff who are on permanent contracts will remain with NRS after this time whilst a new, suitable role is found.
Responsibilities
- Engage effectively with key stakeholders, which will include ONS Procurement and Contract Managers, to ensure the contracts are appropriately managed, supplier(s) performance is measured and reported and tangible contract outcomes are delivered.
- Manage the delivery of key contracts and multiple suppliers, promoting highly effective team working to ensure the contracts are delivered in accordance with requirements and obligations, specifically in relation to time, cost and quality, in order to meet operational and strategic goals.
- Build and manage the relationships with the suppliers, monitoring risk and individual supplier performance against the contract requirements and overall contract deliverables by the parties to demonstrate value for money and realise identified savings.
- Work collaboratively with the Census Procurement Specialist to ensure the smooth transition/handover of any new individual contracts and lead on the effective mobilisation of those contracts into the Programme, managing plans for completion of deliverables associated with the live running of the contracts.
- Review, impact-assess and manage post contract award requests for changes under change control governance procedures. Working closely with ONS and/or NRS Census Procurement Specialist on non-performance/remediation issues and the negotiation of any requested contract changes and where this is an NRS Contract, prepare the change documentation for authorisation by Census Procurement Specialist.
Qualifications
This role is a permanent level transfer position.
How to Apply
Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B3 employees. Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).
Selection Process
All candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Hiring Manager. Informal discussion dates tbc.
Further Information
If you have specific questions about the role, please contact Beverley.Gardiner@nrscotland.gov.uk. Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
Commercial and Contract Manager (Census) - B3 in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Government
Joining the National Records of Scotland as a Commercial and Contract Manager offers you the chance to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Scotland’s Census, a project that significantly impacts public service delivery. With a strong commitment to employee development, a collaborative work culture, and the opportunity to engage with key stakeholders, you will find a rewarding environment that values your contributions while ensuring job security beyond the project's duration. Located in Scotland, this position not only provides meaningful work but also allows you to be part of a dedicated team focused on improving the lives of the people of Scotland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial and Contract Manager (Census) - B3 in Edinburgh
✨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!
✨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 Scottish Government and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
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 Commercial and Contract Manager (Census) - B3 in Edinburgh
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.
