At a Glance
- Tasks: Implement landmark legislation impacting over 50% of Scotland's land and engage with rural stakeholders.
- Company: Scottish Government, committed to progressive land reform and community engagement.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, supportive team environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a friendly unit dedicated to impactful legislative change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in land ownership and community rights across Scotland.
- Qualifications: Strong interest in policy development and teamwork skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 42000 £ per year.
This is an Expression of Interest (EOI) opportunity, available on a lateral move basis only. Applications are open to Core Scottish Government employees only.
Business Area / Directorate: Land Reform, Rural and Islands Policy Division within Directorate for Local Government and Communities
Location: Hybrid (Edinburgh / Glasgow)
The Land Reform Unit includes staff based in Atlantic Quay (Glasgow), Saughton House (Edinburgh) and Victoria Quay (Edinburgh) offices. There is flexibility to be based at any of these office locations. In line with our current ways of working, our team follows a hybrid working approach where colleagues use a mix of office based and remote working (working from home) but typically are expected to spend 40% of the working week in the office or engaging stakeholders.
Grade: B2
Advert Type: Level Transfer
Duration: Permanent
Eligibility: Expressions of interest are invited from substantive colleagues from SG Core only on level transfer.
Overview
The Land Reform Unit includes staff based in Atlantic Quay (Glasgow), Saughton House (Edinburgh) and Victoria Quay (Edinburgh) offices. There is flexibility to be based at any of these office locations. In line with our current ways of working, our team follows a hybrid working approach where colleagues use a mix of office based and remote working (working from home) but typically are expected to spend 40% of the working week in the office or engaging stakeholders.
Land Reform is a highly political area of policy that has been a priority of successive Governments since devolution. Land Reform at its heart is about how control, influence and ownership over our limited landmass is distributed across society. Policy areas under the broad umbrella of Land Reform, some of which lie outwith the unit, include the various Community Rights to Buy, the Scottish Land Fund, legislation around agricultural tenancies, sponsorship of the Scottish Land Commission, policies relating to transparency of control/ownership of land, projects on how landowners should engage with communities, and production of the government’s Land Rights and Responsibilities Statement.
The Government recently passed the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2025. This landmark legislation will:
- Require owners of large landholdings to engage with local communities, including through the development of publicly available Land Management Plans which will be hosted by a public sector agency.
- Enable communities to be pre-notified of land sales so they have more opportunity to buy land in a way that benefits the local area – including through utilising their Community Right to Buy.
- Give Ministers new powers to require that large estates are sold into separate lots – thereby reducing concentration of land ownership in Scotland.
- Create a new Land and Communities Commissioner (LCC) to be part of the Scottish Land Commission. The LCC will enforce some of the obligations on landowners in the Act and also have a role in advising on the lotting of landholdings.
Though the Act has now passed, significant amounts of secondary legislation and guidance are needed before the policies can come into effect. The holder of this policy officer post will play a key role in the implementation of the Act in the coming years.
This is an opportunity to work on the delivery of landmark legislation that - once fully implemented - will impact over 50% of Scotland’s land. You will have the chance to work with stakeholders across rural Scotland, and work on policy development and secondary legislation and guidance, all whilst being part of a friendly, supportive and welcoming unit. We are seeking an individual who embraces working with a team to deliver for ministers, who has a strong interest in developing policy and legislation and who has a positive and supportive working style.
Policy Officer for Implementing the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2025 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 Policy Officer for Implementing the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2025
✨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.
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We think you need these skills to ace Policy Officer for Implementing the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2025
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.
