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- Tasks: Lead the Hearing and Witness team to ensure smooth and professional Inquiry hearings.
- Company: Independent public inquiry team focused on significant national issues.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for impactful stakeholder engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a high-profile inquiry while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in team leadership and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Emma Caldwell Public Inquiry, established under the Inquiries Act 2005, is an independent investigation into matters of significant national interest. Although independent of the Scottish Government, it is largely staffed by civil servants on assignment from SG, working under the direction of the Chair, Lord Scott. The Inquiry team is responsible for the full range of administrative and operational functions, including policy development, strategic planning, finance, facilities, security, and communications. As a public and high‑profile inquiry, it will address complex and sensitive issues, requiring robust risk management and careful stakeholder engagement.
We are looking to recruit an experienced C1 team leader for the duration of the Inquiry hearings. The Hearing and Witness Team Leader is a crucial role, managing the Inquiry’s relationships with witnesses and ensuring preparation for and conduct of hearings is smooth, professional and accessible. This is a cross‑cutting role which will require the post‑holder to work closely with teams across the Inquiry and with external stakeholders to ensure the team delivers a quality service and that the Inquiry is perceived as trusted, open and accessible.
Responsibilities:
- Lead the H&W team to deliver planning and all logistics required to facilitate the successful operation of hearings including: managing the attendance of the public, legal representatives; and provision of front of house services such as reception and hearing room supervision etc;
- Oversee management of contact with witnesses, including availability for hearings, citations signing of statements and supporting attendance at hearings;
- Ensure processes, systems and resources to deliver hearings and witness operations are in place, working collaboratively with other Inquiry teams and take account of feedback;
- Oversee liaison with contractors on provision of audio‑visual, transcription and counselling services and facilitating remote attendance at hearings by key individuals; liaising closely with the operations team to ensure any issues with the live streaming of hearings is resolved swiftly;
- Maintain strong working relationships with the legal team including on scheduling, contact and support of witnesses;
- Oversee financial aspects of hearing support such as witness expenses, travel and accommodation and contract management;
- Lead on provision of quality advice, support and policy guidance as needed on issues that arise in respect of Inquiry hearings, including support to witnesses, core participants and their legal representatives and the wider Inquiry team, delegating effectively as necessary;
- Oversee the delivery of the Inquiry’s Trauma informed approach, ensuring that training and standards are maintained throughout the lifetime of the Inquiry;
- Line management of up to two B3s and counter‑signing responsibility for the wider Hearings and Witnesses team.
Working pattern: This role is a permanent level transfer position at C1 grade. Due to the nature of delivering public hearings annual leave and flexible working hours will be restricted at times during this post. While job sharers and individuals on any working pattern are welcome to apply, the likely restrictions should be noted and may not suit all.
How to Apply: Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive C1 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 12:00pm on Tuesday 10th March.
Selection Process: All applications will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager. Informal discussions are to be confirmed.
Further Information: If you have specific questions about the role, please contact Kieran.Watson@emmacaldwellinquiry.scot.
Emma Caldwell Public Inquiry - Hearing and Witness Team Leader C1 employer: Scottish Government
Contact Detail:
Scottish Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Emma Caldwell Public Inquiry - Hearing and Witness Team Leader C1
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Inquiry inside out! Research the Emma Caldwell Public Inquiry and its objectives. This will help us tailor our conversations during interviews and show that we’re genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insights about the team culture and what it’s really like to work there, which can give us an edge in interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those informal discussions! Think about how your experience aligns with the responsibilities of the Hearing and Witness Team Leader. We want to highlight our leadership skills and ability to manage complex situations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep track of any updates or additional opportunities that come up.
We think you need these skills to ace Emma Caldwell Public Inquiry - Hearing and Witness Team Leader C1
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and perspectives that make you a great fit for the Hearing and Witness Team Leader role.
Tailor Your Statement: Make sure to customise your statement to highlight how your skills and experience align with the specific responsibilities of the role. We’re looking for someone who can manage relationships and logistics effectively, so give us examples that showcase your expertise in these areas.
Keep It Concise: You’ve got a maximum of 500 words, so make every word count! Be clear and to the point while ensuring you cover all the key aspects of your suitability for the role. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Know the Inquiry Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the Emma Caldwell Public Inquiry's purpose and its significance. Familiarise yourself with the Inquiries Act 2005 and the key issues it addresses. This will show your genuine interest and help you articulate how your skills align with their mission.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
As a Hearing and Witness Team Leader, you'll need to showcase your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past, particularly in high-pressure situations. Highlight your experience in stakeholder engagement and how you ensure smooth operations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle sensitive situations. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage complex logistics or support witnesses. Be ready to discuss how you would approach these challenges in the context of the Inquiry.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be prepared to discuss how you would maintain strong relationships with legal teams, witnesses, and other stakeholders. Demonstrating your ability to convey information effectively will be crucial.