At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-profile projects to drive Scotland's economic growth and engage with key stakeholders.
- Company: Scottish Government, focused on transforming the economy and promoting Fair Work.
- Benefits: Temporary role with opportunities for professional development and impactful work.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in Scotland's economy while developing your leadership and project management skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy, communication, and project delivery; economic policy knowledge is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ 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 Scottish Government has serious ambitions to transform Scotland’s economy. The Directorate for Jobs and Wellbeing Economy is here to coordinate and deliver the Scottish Government's economic strategy, lead strategic interventions across government on the economy and the labour market, and drive the Fair Work agenda. This is a temporary position of up to 10 months to cover maternity leave.
The role sits within the Economic Growth Unit’s priority projects team and is focused on delivering high-profile, complex projects that support the Scottish Government’s economic growth mission. The post-holder will work across DGE and wider SG, engaging Ministers, senior officials, policy teams, analysts, delivery partners and external stakeholders to understand issues quickly, shape evidence-based solutions and drive progress.
The post holder will lead and coordinate priority projects, agree project plans and remits, provide clear advice and progress updates, manage risks, and report on outcomes. The role also involves building collaborative relationships, supporting wider economic strategy and delivery, helping maintain the future project pipeline, and managing B-band staff within fast-moving project teams. It requires strong policy judgement, communication, project delivery, stakeholder engagement and leadership skills, with economic policy experience desirable but not essential.
The Economic Growth Unit is part of the Economic Growth, Delivery and Finance Division within the Directorate but works across the DG and wider portfolio. The unit provides capacity to address policy questions and ministerial priorities which cut across the DG Economy portfolio and wider Scottish Government. It contributes to setting the Scottish Government’s overall economic strategy, playing a key role in shaping and steering the Economic strategy, including PfG Economy chapters. It is a flexible, responsive unit capable of quickly tackling emerging questions and issues across the broad spectrum of economic policy.
The priority projects team is a dynamic and impactful part of DGE, deploying skilled people to lead high-priority, complex projects across DGE and beyond to support delivery of the economic growth mission. Projects typically last around 3 months and provide team members with a combination of high-profile policy development experience and exposure to a diverse range of economic issues. The team comprises of 2 C1 posts (including this role), 2 B3, 1 FS/GDP, and 1 B2.
Responsibilities
- Briefing and advice (for senior officials and/or Ministers): Use excellent written and verbal communication skills to distil complex ideas into clear and concise advice to senior civil servants and Ministers in relation to project milestones and final outputs.
- Participation and engagement (with partners, stakeholders, public): Engage with ministers and wider stakeholders to understand and align project objectives and expected outcomes.
- Establish collaborative relationships with stakeholders to understand issues quickly and make connections with relevant SG teams.
- Build and maintain effective relationships across DGE and wider SG to quickly embed self and project team with established policy teams.
- Work collaboratively with policy teams on issues requiring immediate attention.
- Identify and evaluate evidence from a range of sources to assess options and make informed recommendations to improve policy outcomes in relation to economic growth.
- Lead the delivery of priority projects programme in a timely and effective manner, often within short deadlines and amidst competing priorities.
- Lead for engaging with senior colleagues - agreeing project plan and remit with senior colleagues, provide regular progress updates and report on project outcomes.
- Lead by example, contributing to the wider work of the Economic Growth Unit and ongoing work with the wider SG to advocate for our economic growth mission. Support Unit Head in developing and maintaining future project pipeline.
- Manage one or more B-band staff, working closely with other C1 colleagues to support team members in their project work and to respond to corporate correspondence, ministerial briefing, PQs etc.
- Lead rapid establishment of project team at start of each new priority project and ensure appropriate L&D is in place for the team.
Qualifications
This role is a temporary position with an expected commitment of 10 months.
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). Vacancy closes at 11:59pm. 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 charlie.hogg@gov.scot. Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
Priority Projects Lead - C1 in Glasgow 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 Priority Projects Lead - C1 in Glasgow
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Priority Projects Lead - C1 in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Scottish Government.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Scottish Government that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
