At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape Scotland's Census delivery and ensure readiness for key phases.
- Company: Join a trusted organisation producing vital population statistics.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, collaborative environment, and impactful work.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with UK partners and gain valuable insights.
- Why this job: Make a difference in how Scotland's services are planned for the future.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
Business area / directorate: NRS
Location: General Register House, Edinburgh
Working arrangement: 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. In addition, there may be occasional travel to other UK agencies.
Eligibility: Expressions of interest are welcomed from eligible staff in bands a-c for this vacancy. Sponsorship: Skilled worker sponsorship is not available for this role. As a result, we are unable to appoint candidates who require skilled worker sponsorship now or in the future. Applicants must have an existing and ongoing right to work in the UK.
Job description: Do you want to shape the delivery of Scotland’s Census, enabling governments and other public bodies to plan the services we all rely on, and telling the story of Scotland's people for generations to come? If so, this post could be for you. We are the trusted producer of Scotland’s population statistics, including taking the Census of Scotland’s population every 10 years. The next Census is in 2031 and will be delivered in partnership with the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency (NISRA). This is one of the largest digital programmes delivered in Scotland, gathering data from every household across a population of c.5.7m.
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.
Responsibilities: Key duties for the role include:
- 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.
Phase Readiness Manager (Census) 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 Phase Readiness Manager (Census)
✨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 Phase Readiness Manager (Census)
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.
