At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of public services through innovative infrastructure and technology solutions.
- Company: Join the Scottish Government, shaping the future of public services.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and a commitment to equality and inclusion.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration across teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's public services while leading high-performing teams.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in large-scale IT infrastructure and project delivery.
Overview
Power the future of public services, transforming infrastructure, networks, and platforms across the Scottish Government.
We are seeking a strategic and experienced digital leader, with a strong track record of delivering large‑scale technology services and leading high‑performing teams, to help shape and drive the future of public services in Scotland.
Responsibilities
- Ensure the organisation’s infrastructure is secure, modern, cloud‑enabled, and fully aligned with strategic goals, while continuously moving away from on‑premise environments.
- Drive innovation by ensuring infrastructure removes barriers to using corporate applications, automation, Power Platform, AI, and mobile solutions, and by enabling other technology layers to leverage new capabilities.
- Develop and implement device and infrastructure strategies that balance flexibility, security, compliance, and diverse organisational needs, while modernising within agreed budgets.
- Maximise value from suppliers by adopting relevant innovations, utilising value‑added services, and making strong, evidence‑based cases for investment where appropriate.
- Build strong collaboration across technology teams, architects, and wider Scottish Government partners to ensure infrastructure effectively supports end‑to‑end solutions and shared service propositions for Scotland.
- Establish and sustain a capable, professional infrastructure team that can manage the platform, reduce operational risk, deliver dependable shared services, and promote digital services across the central government landscape.
Success Profile
It is essential that you can provide evidence of the following lead criteria and experience points within your CV and supporting statement.
Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT)
Demonstrate strong, strategic leadership of large‑scale IT infrastructure and technical operations, with a proven ability to deliver complex programmes, manage significant budgets, and align technology services with organisational priorities. Be digitally literate, with the ability to engage effectively with technical teams, suppliers and stakeholders to shape and define the best approach to service design. Bring demonstrable experience of agile delivery methodologies, open‑source technologies, cloud platforms and digital services at scale, alongside deep expertise in a relevant digital, data or technology domain.
Experience
- Proven leadership: a history of leading teams and managing technical operations or infrastructure projects.
- Large‑scale infrastructure management: direct experience managing the infrastructure for a large organisation, including upgrades, migrations, and disaster recovery plans.
- Project delivery: a track record of successfully managing and delivering complex IT projects.
- Budget and financial management: experience managing significant budgets and allocating resources to meet business objectives.
- Strategic alignment: experience in aligning IT infrastructure strategy with broader business goals.
- Reporting to leadership: the ability to present performance reports, risks, and system health to senior leadership.
- Vendor and contract management: experience negotiating with and managing vendors to ensure services and hardware are provided effectively.
- Cybersecurity principles, data management, and IT service management frameworks like ITIL is also valued.
Behaviours
- Leadership
- Making Effective Decisions
- Developing Self & Others
- Seeing The Big Picture
- Managing a Quality Service
Security checks
Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), which comprises four main pre‑employment checks – Identity, Right to work, Employment History and a Criminal Record check (unspent convictions).
All candidates must also obtain National Security Vetting at Security Check (SC) clearance level for this vacancy. This typically requires a minimum UK residency period of five years prior to the vetting application.
Working pattern
Our standard hours are 37 hours per week and we offer a range of flexible working options depending on the needs of the role. Scottish Government staff in hybrid‑compatible roles should aim to work in‑person 40% of the time, either in an office or other agreed work location.
Equality statement
We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
Deputy Director for Infrastructure and Networks employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
As a Lead Technical Architect within the Corporate Operations Directorate, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to driving digital transformation and enhancing the efficiency of the Scottish Government. Our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. With a focus on people-centred decision-making and a commitment to making a positive impact, this role offers a unique chance to contribute to meaningful change in Scotland while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director for Infrastructure and Networks
✨Join the IT Consultancy Buzz
Get involved in local or virtual IT consultancy meetups and forums. This is where we can rub shoulders with industry professionals, get insights into what THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT values, and even spot unadvertised opportunities. Don't miss out on these chances to make a name for ourselves in the IT world!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a personal project or case study relevant to the challenges THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT might face. Use platforms like GitHub or Medium to share your findings. This not only demonstrates our consulting skills but shows a proactive attitude, making us stand out from the crowd when applying for that full-time gig.
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Follow and engage with the relevant thought leaders and influencers in IT consultancy on LinkedIn. Share insightful content and join discussions to gain visibility. A well-placed comment or shared article could catch the attention of someone at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT!
✨Direct Apply to THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
Let's not forget to apply directly through the THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT website! Tailor your application to showcase our understanding of their consulting style and how we can contribute to their projects. A personalised approach can make a huge difference in landing that full-time position!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director for Infrastructure and Networks
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In IT consulting, it's all about problem-solving, so make sure your CV highlights your analytical skills and any relevant projects you've tackled. Mention specific technologies or methodologies you've used to resolve issues or improve processes; this shows you can think critically and deliver results, which is vital for us at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Certifications like ITIL, PMP, or even specific tech stack qualifications can really make you stand out. Make sure to include these in your CV, as they not only demonstrate your expertise but also your commitment to staying current in the field. We love seeing candidates who are proactive about their professional development!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT. Share stories about your experiences in IT consulting, and how they shaped your desire to join our team. Mention why you’re excited about this particular role, and how you see yourself contributing to our projects.
Keep It Clear and Concise:We're all busy, so make sure your application is easy to read. Use bullet points for key achievements, and don’t overload us with jargon. A clean, professional layout goes a long way. Remember, the clearer your application, the more likely we are to invite you in for an interview!
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Skills
For an IT consulting role, be ready to demonstrate your technical prowess. You might face questions on systems integration, cloud technologies, or even troubleshooting specific software. If you have experience with tools like AWS, Azure, or even specific programming languages, make sure you can talk about them fluently.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Approach
IT consulting is all about solving problems for clients. Think about how you can illustrate your approach to a past challenge using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). It's a great way to show how you tackle complex issues and come up with effective solutions.
✨Know the Business Impact of IT Solutions
When discussing your experiences, focus not just on the tech solutions you implemented, but also on their business impact. Employers want to see that you can connect IT with organisational goals. Prep examples that highlight how your tech contributions improved efficiency or reduced costs for past clients or projects.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Since IT consulting often involves teamwork and client interactions, expect behavioural questions that assess your interpersonal skills. Be prepared with examples that demonstrate your adaptability, communication skills, and how you handle client feedback. Before the interview, think of situations where you worked closely with clients to create effective IT strategies or changes.
