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- Tasks: Lead legislation and parliamentary operations, advising on complex procedural matters.
- Company: Join the Scottish Parliament, a key institution in Scotland's governance.
- Benefits: 41.5 days leave, flexible working, gym access, and generous pension contributions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping Scotland's laws and policies.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-level procedural advice and strong people management skills.
- Other info: Inclusive culture welcoming diverse candidates with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid working from the Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh (three to four days per week during term time) and from home.
Leave: 41.5 days (including public holidays).
Working Pattern: This is a full-time post, working 35 hours per week.
Pension: Civil Service pension arrangements with an employer contribution of 28.97% of basic annual salary.
Clearance Required: CTC security clearance will be processed at job offer stage.
Closing Date: 12:00 noon on Wednesday 15 April 2026.
Want to make a difference in one of the most influential places in Scotland? Now is your chance! This is an excellent opportunity to join the Scottish Parliament in a senior role within the Parliamentary Business Directorate.
Reporting to the Director of Parliamentary Business, you’ll lead the Legislation and Parliamentary Operations Group which comprises the Chamber Office (encompassing the following teams: Parliamentary Business, Legislation, Non-Government Bills Unit and Standards & Procedures); as well as the Official Report and Broadcasting Office.
As a principal adviser to the Parliament, you’ll lead on complex procedural and political handling matters. You’ll be a trusted advisor to the Presiding Officer, Clerk/Chief Executive and Director for Parliamentary Business.
You’ll work closely with Members – particularly Business Managers – to support the delivery of plenary business. You’ll have experience of providing high-level procedural advice on the most important issues that the Parliament deals with in relation to its law making and scrutiny functions. Integrity to uphold personal and professional standards will be vital to ensure the impartiality required in this role and forge trusted relationships.
You’ll provide strategic leadership within the Directorate, anticipating and influencing future priorities. You’ll have outstanding people management skills and proven experience of motivating and inspiring multi-functional teams, capable of leading colleagues confidently through major organisational change.
If you’re looking for a new challenge and the opportunity to contribute to the Parliament’s vision, we’d love to hear from you.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from a Minority Ethnic background and Disabled candidates. All appointments will be made on merit. We have a values-based culture of respect and inclusion embedded in our organisation, and everyone has the ability to make a difference.
We offer a great range of benefits including: 41.5 leave days (including public holidays), flexible working, paid professional subscriptions, family-friendly policies, Season Ticket advance loans, an onsite gym facility, Health and Wellbeing Schemes including discounted gym membership, a confidential counselling and information service, and the Cycle to Work Scheme.
You’ll also have the opportunity to join the Alpha Civil Service pension scheme, where we’ll offer you an employer contribution of up to 28.97% of your basic salary.
For full information about this role, apply to our website. Please visit the recruitment process for hints and tips on your application.
Head of Legislation & Parliamentary Operations employer: The Scottish Parliament
Contact Detail:
The Scottish Parliament Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Legislation & Parliamentary Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Scottish Parliament on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching recent legislation and parliamentary operations. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about making a difference in Scotland’s political landscape.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, especially around leadership and teamwork. We want to see how you handle complex situations and inspire others, so be ready to share examples from your past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows us you’re genuinely interested in the position. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Legislation & Parliamentary Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in legislation and parliamentary operations. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior role, we’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead teams. Use your application to demonstrate your people management experience and how you've successfully navigated organisational change in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! We appreciate straightforward language that gets to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role, and make sure your passion for the position shines through.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, you’ll find additional resources there to help you with your application process.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Scottish Parliament
✨Know Your Legislation Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the current legislative processes and key issues facing the Scottish Parliament. Brush up on recent bills and understand the procedural nuances that could come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change or complex projects. Highlight your ability to motivate and inspire others, as this role requires strong people management skills.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Remember, you’ll be working closely with Members and senior officials. Practice engaging with your interviewers, showing your interpersonal skills and ability to forge trusted relationships right from the start.
✨Demonstrate Integrity and Impartiality
This role demands a high level of integrity. Be ready to discuss how you’ve maintained impartiality in previous roles and how you plan to uphold these standards in the Scottish Parliament.