At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead food safety and regulatory controls across Scotland, ensuring effective delivery and collaboration.
- Company: Food Standards Scotland, dedicated to consumer protection and food safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with around 145 staff and a budget of £8M per annum.
- Why this job: Shape the future of food safety while working with key industry and government stakeholders.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in food safety or regulatory environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Overview
Ready to lead the delivery of essential food safety and regulatory controls across Scotland? The Operational Delivery Division works closely with other FSS Divisions and across other portfolios, to deliver official controls in approved meat establishments, animal feed controls, the FSS shellfish monitoring programme and wine standards as well as overseeing a range of SLAs with local authorities and other government departments. The Operational Delivery Division is structured across 4 Branches; Vet Profession & Vet Policy / Liaison, Field Operations, which consists of 3 geographic areas covering the whole of Scotland, Feed Delivery, Shellfish Monitoring and SLAs. It has around 145 staff and budgetary responsibility of c. £8M per annum. The Head of Operational Delivery plays a key leadership role within FSS, overseeing a wide range of official controls delivery responsibilities as well as corporate and executive leadership functions. The role will require close working with FSS Executive Management and Corporate Governance teams, veterinary, meat, fish and shellfish sectors and senior colleagues across government. Ministerial engagement is also a prominent feature of this role.
Responsibilities
- Lead and empower the Division to deliver an effective contribution to FSS’s overarching strategic objectives, setting aims and objectives, taking decisions on strategy for delivery, promoting a positive culture of collaborative working, and managing resources to ensure they are deployed, monitored and assessed against outcomes.
- Provide leadership and direction for the development of expert knowledge, strategic support and advice which meets identified needs and priorities relating to the delivery of food and feed law enforcement and consumer protection by partners.
- Oversee the delivery of all meat Official Controls in slaughterhouses, cutting plants and game handling establishments approved by FSS and the delivery of animal feed controls.
- Oversee the delivery of various controls for other government departments in the same establishments and manage the Scottish shellfish monitoring programme.
- As a member of FSS Executive Management Team and working with other Heads of Division, contribute actively to FSS strategic decision-making, risk management, corporate planning and performance, organisational development, financial management, and assurance.
- Maintain a comprehensive knowledge and high-level awareness of developing operational policy and practice and current issues in meat, animal feed, and shellfish controls and make recommendations on future strategic developments.
- Provide authoritative advice and guidance to FSS CEO and Deputy CEO on areas within the remit of the Division, and clear and authoritative briefing and advice to the wider Executive Management Team, FSS Board, Ministers and Scottish Parliamentary Committees as required.
- Be an authoritative and credible representative of FSS, managing stakeholder engagement and working relationships at a senior level with key industry and government stakeholders and partners, including the Scottish Government, UK and devolved government departments, and local authorities.
- Management and development of staff (line management of 3 x C1 and 1 x B3 staff and oversight of approximately 140 band B staff).
Head of Operational Delivery employer: Scottish Government
As a leading authority in food safety and regulatory controls across Scotland, our company offers an exceptional work environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. With a strong commitment to employee development and a culture that values teamwork, we empower our staff to make meaningful contributions to public health and safety. Join us in a role that not only shapes the future of food standards but also provides unique opportunities for engagement with government and industry stakeholders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operational Delivery
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Scottish Government, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Scottish Government and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operational Delivery
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Scottish Government and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Scottish Government, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Scottish Government.
