Inspectors of Burial, Cremation and Funeral Directors

Inspectors are responsible for monitoring compliance across burial and cremation authorities and funeral directors, ensuring adherence to standards such as the Funeral Director Code of Practice and supporting public confidence in the sector. Scottish Ministers are seeking to appoint up to three Inspectors to strengthen the regulatory framework for the funeral sector under the Burial and Cremation (Scotland) Act 2016. The role involves conducting inspections, assessing compliance, and promoting best practice among burial authorities, cremation authorities and funeral directors.

Key Duties

• Inspect burial authorities and burial grounds, cremation authorities and crematoriums, and funeral director businesses in line with the powers set out in the 2016 Act and related regulations.
• Produce inspection reports and, where relevant, take enforcement action.
• When necessary, participate in appeals against enforcement notices.
• Provide timely, accurate information and guidance to burial authorities, cremation authorities, and funeral directors to assist them in complying with the requirements of the 2016 Act, related legislation and any codes of practice or guidance.
• Work with the Scottish Government’s funeral sector register and inspection administration team and other inspectors to ensure the smooth and effective operation of the sector regulatory regime in Scotland.
• Establish and maintain good working relationships with other organisations and participate in reference groups, discussion forums and open meetings (as required).
• Prepare an annual report detailing duties carried out during the reporting period, for publication on the Scottish Government website and presentation in the Scottish Parliament.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of best practices and legal requirements and consider whether it is necessary to make recommendations to Ministers regarding improvement of services within the funeral sector.
• Ensure the timely and appropriate resolution of queries or complaints raised by members of the public or professionals with Inspectors.

While experience of working in the funeral sector in Scotland or elsewhere is desirable it is not a requirement for these appointments; training will be provided by the Scottish Government.

Experience

The successful applicants must be able to evidence that they have the appropriate skills to produce reports of a high standard, and respond to complex queries in a sensitive and timely manner. Additionally, the following knowledge and experience is desirable:

• Knowledge, qualifications or experience in relevant fields of work such as regulation/enforcement, funeral sector work, or working with the bereaved.

Behaviours

• Leadership
• Communicating and influencing
• Working Together
• Developing Self and Others

Remuneration

The position is remunerated at a fee of £182 for every day of not less than 7.5 hours devoted to performing your functions on a pro rata basis, up to a maximum total fee of £40,000 per financial year. Remuneration is pensionable, includes a rolled-up holiday pay, and reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Time Commitment

Up to 5 days per week, with each day being at least 7.5 hours (excluding meal breaks). This role is flexible and there is no guaranteed minimum number of days per year.

Security Checks

Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) before appointment. BPSS is comprised of four main pre-employment checks – identity, right to work, employment history and a criminal record check (unspent convictions). More information on BPSS can be found on the UK Government website.

Equality Statement

We are committed to equality and inclusion and aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation. Find out more about our commitment to diversity and how we offer and support recruitment adjustments for anyone who needs them.

Further Information

Read the Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.

How to Apply

Apply online, providing a CV and Supporting Statement (no more than 750 words) which demonstrates how you meet the Experience criteria listed above. If invited for further assessment, this will consist of an interview where all criteria in the Success Profile will be tested. Completed applications must be submitted by midnight on 26th January 2026. For further information on the post or the recruitment process please email the Burial & Cremation Team at BurialAndCremation@gov.scot.