At a Glance
- Tasks: Support international operations and enhance Scotland's global reputation through strategic engagement.
- Company: Join the Scottish Government, a key player in public service and international relations.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, a supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with occasional travel to engage with international staff.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's international strategy while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in coordination roles and strong drafting skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ 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 – Victoria Quay
Working Arrangement – Staff in roles compatible with hybrid working should aim to spend 40% of their contracted working time working in person at their contractual workplace. More information can be found within Hybrid Working Policy.
Grade – B2
Advert type – Level Transfer
Duration - Permanent
Eligibility - Expressions of interest are invited from substantive colleagues on level transfer from Core SG only. Skilled Worker sponsorship is not available for this role. As a result, we are unable to appoint candidates who require Skilled Worker sponsorship now or in the future. Applicants must have an existing and ongoing right to work in the UK.
Overview: The Directorate for Culture and External Affairs (DCEA) brings together the Scottish Government’s work on Culture, Population and Migration, International Climate Change, External Affairs and International Development. The Directorate leads engagement at home and internationally to enhance Scotland's reputation, increase sustainable economic growth, pursue strategic interests overseas, and strengthen international partnerships.
This post sits within the International Strategy and Reputation Division, which works to strengthen Scotland's international impact by:
- Developing and implementing Scotland’s International Strategy with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Engaging on the international elements of inter-governmental relations across the UK and the development of our network of international offices.
- Improving Scotland’s wellbeing and influence globally by maximising international opportunities across economic, cultural and policy assets.
- Building Scotland’s global reputation as a destination to live, work, study, visit and do business.
Responsibilities: Key responsibilities include:
- Support preparations for Ministerial and senior official engagement on international IGR matters, coordinating SG contributions, drafting high-quality briefing and ensuring alignment across policy teams.
- Provide advice on Memorandums of Understanding, international treaties and obligations in line with the Concordat on International Relations.
- Coordinate regular meetings for the international network and the Network Management Team strand of our governance and operations arrangements and provide secretariat support.
- Support the B3 International Operations and IGR Manager with professionalising our approach to recruitment and onboarding for the International Network.
- Support international network workforce planning activities, including maintaining trackers, collating vacancy information, monitoring recruitment progress and maintaining guidance and resource materials.
- Support delivery of the annual leadership event for the Scottish Government’s international network.
- Maintain information management standards (SharePoint structure, document control, IMSO for eRDM).
- Monitor and control access to FCDO DipTels by Scottish Government staff, ensuring compliance with FCDO information security requirements.
- Undertake FoIs, PQs, Micase and briefing duties as required for the division’s policy area.
Qualifications: Success profiles are specific to each job and they include the mix of behaviours, experience and technical criteria that candidates will be assessed on.
Technical / Professional Skills:
- Working Internationally – Level 1 – Developing
- Multilevel Government – Level 1 – Developing
Experience:
- Experience in coordination/secretariat roles (agendas, minutes, action tracking).
- Strong drafting for briefings/correspondence; handling official-level requests to deadlines.
- Experience managing trackers and management information (e.g. workforce, actions, risks).
- Demonstrable emotional intelligence and the ability to support colleagues through challenging or changing circumstances.
Behaviours:
- Seeing the Big Picture – Level 2
- Communicating and Influencing – Level 2
- Working Together – Level 2
Additional information: SC level of security clearance is required for this role. If you do not have it you will be expected to apply for it once in post.
Working Pattern: This post is based in Victoria Quay with a mix of office based and remote working in line with the hybrid working policy. There may be occasional travel to engage with staff in our international network to better understand and inform the operational aspects of this role.
The post is a full-time role, but staff with different working patterns are invited to apply, and we will assess proposed working patterns against the business requirements for this post. Our standard hours are 35 hours per week and we offer a range of flexible working options depending on the needs of the role, including Flexi-leave.
If you have specific questions about the role you are applying for, please contact us.
Further Information: Further information about this opportunity is available from lynsey.cullen-gibson@gov.scot or Kathryn.gosling@gov.scot.
How to Apply: Please submit an Expression of Interest (maximum 500 words) outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team. Please align this to how you meet the behaviours, experience and technical skills listed in the Success Profile above.
Vacancies close at 11:59pm on the date displayed in the table, unless otherwise stated on the job advert.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be used to support your application, but all statements and examples provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified, applications will be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action.
If invited for further assessment, this will consist of a light touch interview. Discussions are to be confirmed.
Recruitment Principles: As a government organisation, we adhere to the Civil Service Commission Recruitment Principles and we investigate any complaints received in relation to recruitment cases.
About us: The Scottish Government is the devolved government for Scotland. We have responsibility for a wide range of key policy areas including education, health, the economy, justice, housing and transport. We offer rewarding careers and employ people across Scotland in a wide range of professions and roles.
Our staff are part of the UK Civil Service observing the Civil Service Code and working for Ministers and senior stakeholders to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland.
We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment along with a wide range of employee benefits.
Security checks: Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), before they can be appointed. BPSS is comprised of four main pre-employment checks – Identity, Right to work, Employment History and a Criminal Record check (unspent convictions).
Equality statement: We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
International Operations and IGR Adviser in Edinburgh employer: Scottish Government
The Scottish Government is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Located in Victoria Quay, the role of International Operations and IGR Adviser allows for a hybrid working arrangement, promoting flexibility while engaging in meaningful work that enhances Scotland's international reputation. With a commitment to diversity and a range of employee benefits, this position provides a unique opportunity to contribute to vital public services and make a positive impact on the lives of people across Scotland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land International Operations and IGR Adviser in Edinburgh
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We think you need these skills to ace International Operations and IGR Adviser 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.