At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations, manage procurement, payroll, and support strategic decision-making.
- Company: Join the Scottish Information Commissioner, promoting freedom of information in a supportive team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and comprehensive onboarding.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public sector finance while enjoying a dynamic work environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance management and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; applications from job share candidates welcome.
The predicted salary is between 38400 - 46000 £ per year.
Job Description
The Scottish Information Commissioner enforces and promotes freedom of information (FOI) law.
The Business Support Team plays a vital role in enabling the Scottish Information Commissioner to fulfil their duties by ensuring the organisation operates effectively and efficiently. The team is responsible for the full range of corporate functions, including governance, finance, information management, risk, health and safety, human resources, procurement, contracts, and IT.
The Business Support Team consists of five members and is led by the Head of Business Support who has overall responsibility. The team includes two Business Support Managers, who provide operational oversight and guidance, and two Business Support Administrative Officers, who deliver day to day operational and administrative support
The post holder plays a vital role in ensuring that financial operations are accurate, compliant, and efficient, while also contributing to proactive forecasting, identifying risks and opportunities, and supporting strategic decision making across the organisation.
This is a key role within the Business Support Team, responsible for leading and managing the organisation’s finance function at an operational level. This includes oversight of procurement, payroll and pensions, contracts, purchase to pay processes, workforce planning, finance related records management, audit, and reporting.
You’ll bring:
Significant experience in managing finance functions within a public sector or comparable organisational environment.
Proven track record in procurement and end to end purchase to pay processes.
Experience in managing payroll and workforce planning activities.
Strong knowledge of public sector (or other comparable organisation) financial regulations, procurement legislation, and audit requirements.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written, verbal, and digital).
Education to Higher level/SVQ 3 or equivalent or have equivalent experience, skills and knowledge.
We offer:
Interesting, challenging and varied work
Inclusive and supportive team culture
Strong leadership and management support
Comprehensive onboarding and induction programme
Competitive salary £45,428 (gross p.a.) FTE on a scale rising to £54,166 (gross p.a.) FTE
Work location in St Andrews, Fife but some hybrid working may be possible
Flexible working arrangements (applications on a job share basis are welcome)
To apply, you must complete an application form and submit this to us by Noon on Wednesday 29 October 2025. You should use the application form in our application pack (CVs will not be considered).
The application pack also includes a Job Description and Person Specification and a summary of the main terms and conditions of employment (for information only). Security clearance is required for this post. For more information on the security clearance and pre-employment checks (identity and right to work in the UK, Basic Criminal Records Check), location of work, references, data protection, equal opportunities and the evidence of the skills, knowledge and experience that you will need to provide please see the Job Description and Person Specification.
Closing date for applications: Noon on Wednesday 29 October 2025.
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If you are successful at the application stage and invited to interview, interviews will be held at the Office of the Scottish Information Commissioner, Kinburn Castle, Doubledykes Road, St Andrews, KY16 9DS.
Business Support Manager (Finance, Procurement & Payroll) employer: Scottish Information Commissioner
Contact Detail:
Scottish Information Commissioner Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Support Manager (Finance, Procurement & Payroll)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research the Scottish Information Commissioner and their values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the team culture and what it’s really like to work there, which can give you an edge in your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities of the Business Support Manager role. Practise articulating your achievements in finance, procurement, and payroll management.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and ready to contribute to the important work we do.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Support Manager (Finance, Procurement & Payroll)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. It’ll give you a clear idea of what we’re looking for in a candidate and help you tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience.
Use the Application Form Provided: Remember, we only accept applications through our official form, so don’t waste time on CVs! Fill out the application form completely and ensure you address all the points mentioned in the person specification.
Showcase Your Relevant Experience: When filling out the application, be specific about your experience in finance, procurement, and payroll. Use examples that demonstrate your skills and how they align with the responsibilities of the Business Support Manager role.
Proofread Before Submitting: Take a moment to review your application for any typos or errors. A well-written application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role. Once you’re happy, submit it through our website before the deadline!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Information Commissioner
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around public sector regulations and procurement processes. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in managing finance functions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Business Support Manager, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare to share instances where you've successfully managed teams or projects, highlighting your interpersonal and communication skills. Think about how you can convey your ability to support strategic decision-making.
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the Scottish Information Commissioner's role in promoting freedom of information. This will help you align your answers with their mission and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, challenges they face, and how success is measured in this role. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.