This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers.' Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Movers list will be rejected and not considered.
This role provides the Programme Director and Programme Manager with internal assurance of delivery readiness for key Census phases. You will help ensure each phase is cohesive, aligned and ready to proceed by bringing together insights on risks, dependencies and progress across teams. Working alongside delivery teams (digital, operations and statistics), while remaining independent of them, you will provide objective challenge, clear analysis and confidence to decision-makers. You will maintain an end-to-end view of readiness, driving alignment across services, operational delivery, technology and external partners.
As Census phases are delivered in close collaboration with UK partners (ONS and NISRA), a key aspect of the role will be ensuring readiness is aligned across all organisations.
Key Responsibilities
Build a joined-up view of phase readiness, highlighting risks and confidence levels
- Support the definition and application of clear readiness criteria aligned with programme governance and ONS, and assess delivery against these criteria
Identify gaps, dependencies or misalignment across teams and partners
Provide constructive challenge and advice to strengthen readiness
Produce clear, evidence-based reporting to support governance decisions, including go/no-go recommendations
Proactively identify emerging risks to phase readiness and ensure early visibility
Ensure key assurance activities, impact assessments and strategies are coordinated and complete across the phase
Help capture and apply lessons learned between phases
Maintain alignment between business case intent, delivery outputs and readiness (“golden thread”)
Assess the impact of changes and decisions on overall phase readiness, ensuring downstream risks are understood
Responsibilities
Working Pattern
This role is a temporary position with an expected commitment of 12 months.
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.
Candidates should note that office attendance will be needed at points, in particular for collaboration sessions, but there is currently no fixed set days required in office. In addition there may be occasional travel to other UK agencies. If you have specific questions about the role you are applying for, please contact us.
Qualifications
Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive C1 grade employees.
Please submit a CV and supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).
Vacancy closes at 23:59 on Tuesday 14 July.
If you have questions about your application, please contact Claire.Lumsdaine@nrscotland.gov.uk
All applicants will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager. There will be no formal testing or assessment.
Discussions are expected to be scheduled for w/c TBC.
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
National Records of Scotland (NRS) is Scotland’s record keeper. Our purpose is to collect, preserve and produce information about Scotland's people and history and make it available to inform current and future generations. We offer rewarding careers and employ people across Scotland in a wide range of professions and roles.
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.
We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment along with a wide range of employee benefits. Find out more about what we offer.
As part of the UK Civil Service, we uphold the Civil Service Nationality Rules.
Find out more about our commitment to diversity and how we offer and support recruitment adjustments for anyone who needs them.
Further Information
If you have specific questions about the role, please contact the Hiring Manager, Claire.Lumsdaine@nrscotland.gov.uk
Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
Apply before Tuesday 14 July (23:59). This vacancy is only open to substantive grade 'Priority Mover' colleagues.
Phase Readiness Manager (Census) - C1 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.
