At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the PMO to ensure effective delivery of agricultural reform projects.
- Company: Join a dynamic team within the Scottish Government's Programme Management Office.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on agricultural reform while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Significant PMO experience and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.
The PMO Lead plays a key role in the Programme Management Office, ensuring effective delivery of workstreams within the Agricultural Reform Programme while supporting overall programme management. Working within a multi-disciplinary team, the post holder sets standards for workstream and change practices and provides strategic advice to senior leaders (including the SRO and Programme Director) and contributes to PMO leadership alongside other B3 leads. The role also includes line management of a PMO officer.
Responsibilities
- Establish and maintain PMO standards and governance, ensuring consistent frameworks, documentation, and effective programme controls.
- Lead programme planning, reporting and performance tracking, providing timely, high-quality insight to senior stakeholders.
- Manage delivery oversight, including risks, issues, dependencies, change control and resource planning across workstreams.
- Support programme assurance activities (e.g. Gateway, DAO, TAF), ensuring compliance with required reviews and controls.
- Enable effective governance, ensuring meetings, reporting and decision-making processes run smoothly.
- Drive continuous improvement and team cohesion within the PMO and across the wider programme.
- Lead and develop staff, including line management and building team capacity.
Qualifications
Significant experience of working within a Programme Management Office (PMO) on complex projects. Experience of developing and maintaining delivery standards, frameworks and methodologies.
Working pattern
This role is a permanent level transfer position (lasting for the duration of the project). 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. Scottish Government staff in hybrid-compatible roles should aim to work in-person 40% of the time, either in an office or other agreed work location.
If you have specific questions about the role you are applying for, please contact us. 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.
How to Apply
Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive B3 grade 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). Vacancies close at 23:59pm on Wednesday 29 July.
If you have questions about your application please contact elaine.young@gov.scot.
Selection Process
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.
Apply before: 29/07/2026 (23:59)
PMO Lead - B3 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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PMO Lead - B3 in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like PMO Lead - B3 at Scottish Government!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Scottish Government or be willing to refer you for that PMO Lead - B3 position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Scottish Government who’s on the lookout for their next PMO Lead - B3 star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time PMO Lead - B3 role at Scottish Government!
We think you need these skills to ace PMO Lead - B3 in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Scottish Government. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Scottish Government. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
