Scottish Government Non-Executive Directors provide challenge, advice and assurance to the Permanent Secretary based on their experience and insight. They champion good governance and the improvement of performance, encouraging diverse and innovative ways of working, thinking and problem-solving, drawing on their unique perspectives.
Scottish Government Non-Executive Directors take a whole system approach to their role, recognising that complex, dynamic issues require collaborative and innovative responses. They need to be comfortable challenging and being challenged, sharing their unique experiences and perspectives, and supporting others to do the same.
By taking an open, values-based approach, you will win and maintain the confidence of senior leaders and, in doing so, help make space for creative thinking, new ideas and effective challenge within the Scottish Government.
Responsibilities
The Permanent Secretary is looking for Non-Executive Directors who can put their skills, knowledge, understanding and experience to good use at the Scottish Government.
Please read the attached Applicant Information Pack that provides detail of the Non-Executive Director position.
Qualifications
To be considered for appointment you must demonstrate that you meet all the essential criteria and one priority criterion.
You can draw on examples from your working life, your personal life or through your participation with a private, public, voluntary, charity or community organisation. The priority criteria will be considered first in the assessment process and you are asked to select and evidence one of the following priority criteria:
- Commercial Leadership
- Digital Leadership
- Community or Voluntary Sector Leadership
You will be expected to meet all the essential criteria which are:
- Experience in a Governance Role
- Constructive challenge, advice and influencing skills
- Understanding of diversity and equality as business-critical issues.
How to apply
Full details on how to apply, and the evidence that should be submitted at the application stage, are set out in the Applicant Information Pack. Please download this for your reference.
Reasonable Adjustments
If you require a reasonable adjustment at any stage of the process, please contact ETSGO@gov.scot marking your email "In confidence: NXD Recruitment 2026".
Selection Process
The selection panel will assess all application forms against the criteria for appointment (as detailed above). Those who demonstrate evidence that most closely meets the criteria tested at this stage will be short-listed for interview.
At interview, the selection panel will ask questions that relate directly to the criteria for appointment. Interviews are planned for the week commencing 12th October.
In addition to being asked questions about how you meet the criteria, you will also be asked to give a presentation that will highlight how you would apply your experience and expertise in the position (details will be provided in advance of the interview).
The selection panel will review the evidence provided and agree on which candidates have most closely met the criteria for selection and should be recommended to the Permanent Secretary. The Permanent Secretary will make a decision about whom to appoint based on evidence from the selection panel and will meet with the candidates before making a final decision.
Eligibility & Conflicts of Interest
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
As part of the application process, you will be asked to complete a short online form providing details of any other involvement in public life or potential conflicts of interest, which will be explored further with you at interview if selected. If you are unsure whether you have a conflict of interest and would like to discuss this, please contact Kirsty Walker (kirsty.walker2@gov.scot).
Fit and Proper Person
A ‘fit and proper person’ is an individual who meets the requirements of the role and whose past or present activities and/or behaviours do not render them unsuitable to be a Scottish Government Non-Executive Director. Further details on this are included in the Applicant Information Pack.
Non-Executive Director in Edinburgh 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.
