At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to shape the future of social security in Scotland.
- Company: Be part of Social Security Scotland, a key public service agency.
- Benefits: Earn £239 per day plus expenses and enjoy hybrid working.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while enhancing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Bring your unique perspective and strategic thinking; no board experience needed.
- Other info: Diverse backgrounds welcome; excellent opportunity for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 47880 - 47880 £ per year.
Term of appointment: The initial term will be for three years with an option to extend, up to a maximum of eight years in total.
Role: Non‑executive Members
Remuneration: £239 per day plus reasonable expenses.
Location: Our meetings are hybrid - they will be held in our offices or remotely using Microsoft Teams, although there is an expectation of regular in‑person attendance. Meetings usually take place at Social Security Scotland’s Head Office, Agnes Husband House, 17 South Union Street, Dundee, DD1 4BF. We also hold meetings at our Glasgow office at 220 High Street, Glasgow, G4 0QW.
Number of Vacancies: Up to 3
Closing Date: 11:59pm on 29 April 2026
About The Role: Social Security Scotland is recruiting up to three Non‑executive Members to support the governance, scrutiny and strategic direction of the organisation as we deliver a range of devolved benefits across Scotland. As we continue to mature, these roles will have a key role to help shape a major public service at a key point in its development. All members will be appointed to our Executive Advisory Body, and two appointed members will also serve on the Audit and Assurance Committee, one of whom will take on the role of Chair.
Person Specification:
Core Criteria:- Ability to provide effective strategic challenge and advice to develop and enhance executive thinking.
- Ability to support and inspire performance improvement.
- Excellent communication skills, with the vision to understand what Social Security Scotland can achieve and advise on how to make it happen.
- Experience or understanding of areas such as finance, risk, cyber or digital.
- The ability to demonstrate political acuity, with an awareness of the wider strategic, organisational and stakeholder landscape.
- Experience operating at senior management level across financial stewardship, audit, risk and related functions.
- Understanding of risk identification, mitigation and reporting for assurance purposes.
- A clear focus on good governance, including the ability to lead a committee and ensure it operates effectively.
- Experience in supporting organisations through periods of change.
Overview About Social Security Scotland: Social Security Scotland is an Executive Agency of the Scottish Government. Scottish Ministers are responsible for defining the overall policy and resource framework within which we operate. We are accountable to Ministers, and Ministers are accountable to Parliament for our functions and performance.
Our role in the social security system: Social Security Scotland is responsible for delivering a range of devolved benefits that provide support to people across Scotland, including families, disabled people, carers, young people entering work, and older citizens.
Diversity and Inclusion: Our values of dignity, fairness and respect are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to bringing greater diversity into our workplace, an environment which is inclusive and embraces different backgrounds, skills, perspectives and ways of thinking.
Information Evening: We will be holding an online information session on Wednesday 22 April from 17:45 – 18:45 for anyone interested in applying for the upcoming Non‑executive Member vacancies.
Application Process: To make an application, you will need to submit a recent CV and a supporting statement.
Conflicts and Political Activity Declaration: Members of our Executive Advisory Body and Audit and Assurance Committee are expected to adhere and uphold the Code of Conduct for Board Members of Public Bodies at all times.
Right to Work: All applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK before taking up appointment.
Assessment: If you are shortlisted, you will be invited to attend an interview at our Dundee office.
Contact Us: Please read through this information pack carefully before submitting your application. We welcome applications from a broad and diverse range of people.
Non-executive Board Member - Social Security Scotland employer: Social Security Scotland
Contact Detail:
Social Security Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Non-executive Board Member - Social Security Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it's answering common interview questions or discussing your experiences, being articulate and confident can make a huge difference in how you're perceived.
✨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 Social Security Scotland and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Non-executive Board Member - Social Security Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your key responsibilities and achievements clearly. Tailor it to showcase how your experiences align with the core criteria for the Non-executive Member role.
Nail Your Supporting Statement: This is your chance to shine! In no more than 1,000 words, explain how your skills and experiences make you a great fit for the role. Be specific about how you can provide strategic challenge and support performance improvement.
Be Honest About Conflicts of Interest: When filling out your application, be upfront about any potential conflicts of interest or political activities. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but transparency is key in maintaining trust and integrity within the board.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s straightforward! Just register, upload your CV and supporting statement, and submit. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Social Security Scotland
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand Social Security Scotland's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and challenges. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and how your skills can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've provided strategic advice or challenged existing processes. Highlight how your insights led to improvements or innovative solutions. This is crucial for a Non-executive Member role, as they need to inspire performance improvement.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication skills are key for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. During the interview, ensure you listen actively and respond thoughtfully to questions, showcasing your ability to engage in meaningful dialogue.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your political acuity and understanding of governance. Think about how you would approach various situations related to risk management or organisational change. Prepare to discuss how you would provide constructive challenge and support to the executive team.