Join to apply for the Deputy Chief Social Work Adviser role at The Scottish Government
This is an exceptional and pivotal opportunity for the right social work leader to support the National Chief Social Work Adviser (NCSWA) in shaping the development of the National Social Work Agency (NSWA) and have a lasting influence on the future of the social work profession in Scotland.
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic leader committed to shaping the future of social work, to champion advances for the profession and bring exceptional professional credibility to the role of Deputy Chief Social Work Adviser. They will be prepared to challenge both national and local approaches to policy development and implementation. They will uphold a collective commitment to improve outcomes for people guided by person-led principles and underpinned by social justice and human rights.
They will provide strategic and organisational leadership to the NSWA, as a new executive agency, while also serving as a principal adviser to Scottish Ministers on all matters relating to social work. They will shape national government policy across all subject areas, impacting the delivery of social work services, respond to emerging challenges, and ensure that social work practice across Scotland is informed, consistent, and achieves the highest standards.
Collaboration with social work sector partners is vital, with local government, local leaders and social work employers. The Scottish Social Work Partnership is being formed; an alliance, between NSWA, COSLA and Social Work Scotland, with involvement with sector partners. As a principal partner in the partnership, you will drive forward the joint vision for a skilled, supported and sustainable workforce – one that is equipped to meet the needs of Scotland’s people now and in the future.
The NSWA will be formed from the existing Office of the Chief Social Work Adviser, located within the Children and Families Directorate of the Scottish Government. This is currently a staff team of 40 comprising a mix of both civil servants and professional social work advisers, the headcount of the NSWA will remain similar in number.
Key Responsibilities:
* With the National Chief Social Work Adviser, lead the successful establishment of the NSWA, demonstrating credible leadership and a clear focus on delivering its purpose from launch in Spring 2026.
* Deliver high-quality, timely professional advice to Scottish Ministers and Government officials on statutory responsibilities as they relate to social work and social care practice and provision, regardless of setting.
* With the NCSWA provide strategic leadership of the NSWA, ensuring social work has a strong voice within Scottish Government, advocating for the profession in national policy development and collaborating across government to ensure policy aligns with front line practice and implementation.
* Promote professional leadership for the profession, working closely with partners to advance professional accountability, and drive service improvement across the sector.
* Contribute to national policy development across the Scottish Government, advising on the implications of new legislation and government initiatives for the social work profession, working collaboratively to find practical, consensus-driven solutions that improve outcomes.
* Challenge traditional models of service delivery, advocating for preventative approaches and the commitment to keep the Promise to care-experienced children and young people, cross-sector collaboration, continuous learning, and evidence-informed practice to drive transformation in the sector.
* Promote the vital role of social work in protecting vulnerable individuals and groups, raising standards, and developing a confident, competent, and valued workforce focused on service user needs.
* Lead national policy forums and represent the NSWA and Scottish Ministers as required, fostering strong, collaborative relationships with key partners to enhance the effectiveness of the NSWA, the profession, and social work services across Scotland.
* Support the NCSWA in overseeing the day-to-day operation and performance of the NSWA, leading a team of professional social work advisers working across justice, children and adults social work policy.
Success Profile:
It is essential that you can provide evidence in your application of the professional experience and skills required for this role. In addition, candidates applying for roles with the government agencies and public bodies in Scotland are assessed in line with the Success Profiles framework that is used across the Civil Service.
Qualifications:
Professional Registration - it is essential that you are qualified social worker, registered with one of the UK regulators. The successful applicant will be required to be registered with the SSSC.
Experience:
* Extensive background in senior social work leadership, at Head of Service or CSWO level, or comparable senior level of responsibility.
* Current knowledge of social work services, strengths and challenges and awareness of emerging themes and issues.
* Strong understanding of the Scottish political and policy landscape, with experience contributing to national reform agendas and aligning services with strategic priorities.
* Skilled in navigating complex systems and multi-agency environments to deliver integrated, person-centred services.
* Proven ability to work across organisational boundaries, to build and maintain partnerships and relationships across stakeholders and politicians that generates confidence, respect and collaborative working.
Behaviours:
* Leadership.
* Changing and Improving.
* Making Effective Decision.
* Managing a Quality Service.
* Communicating and Influencing.
We are committed to equality and inclusion, and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
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