At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead legislation and operations at the Scottish Parliament, influencing key political matters.
- Company: Join the Scottish Parliament, a pivotal 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 leadership skills.
- Other info: Inclusive culture welcoming diverse candidates with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ 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.
Parliamentary Legislation & Operations Leader employer: The Scottish Parliament
Contact Detail:
The Scottish Parliament Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Parliamentary Legislation & Operations Leader
✨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 us insider info about the role and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of parliamentary procedures. We recommend reading up on recent legislation and current issues to show you’re in the know!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of examples where you’ve inspired teams or navigated change. We want to hear how you’ve made a difference in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, check out our recruitment tips for extra guidance!
We think you need these skills to ace Parliamentary Legislation & Operations Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Parliamentary Legislation & Operations Leader. Use keywords from the job description to show we’re on the same page!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading multi-functional teams, don’t forget to share examples of how you’ve motivated and inspired others in previous positions. We want to see your people management skills shine through!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and experiences are easy to spot. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to access all the resources we have for applicants!
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.
✨Demonstrate Your Advisory Experience
Be ready to discuss your experience providing high-level procedural advice. Think of specific instances where your guidance made a significant impact, especially in politically sensitive situations.
✨Emphasise Integrity and Impartiality
This role demands a high level of integrity. Prepare to discuss how you’ve maintained impartiality in previous roles and built trusted relationships with stakeholders, particularly in a political context.