Overview
Director General (DG) – Net Zero, The Scottish Government. Lead a dynamic team of five Directorates and three Executive Agencies, including 4,400 staff across five locations. Responsible for delivering a joined-up strategy and outcomes to achieve a just transition of the economy while delivering transformational change across government. Lead the transformation of society and economy to meet Net Zero targets, address climate change and biodiversity, and harness economic opportunities of the transition. As a key advisor to Ministers, provide confident, evidence-based advice and engage with a wide range of stakeholders to translate strategy into action.
You will be accountable to Parliament for resources including five Directorates (approx. 2,400 staff) and portfolio accountability of 25 public bodies, plus three Executive Agencies (approx. 2,000 staff). Total annual budget is circa £6 billion. You will join the top leadership team of the Scottish Government to lead core public policy and services at a time of significant challenge.
Responsibilities
* Lead transformational change across the whole of Government, communicating with the public, business and third sector; represent the Scottish Government at the highest levels and focus on tackling climate emergency as a top priority.
* As part of the top leadership team, make collective decisions on key priorities affecting Scotland, including Public Service Reform, workforce planning, hybrid working and diversity & inclusion.
* Deliver an ambitious policy agenda to meet emissions reduction targets and place Scotland on a pathway to Net Zero by 2045.
* Promote close collaboration with other government colleagues, public bodies and external partners to deliver outcomes for the people of Scotland and foster a culture of innovation.
* Ensure delivery of essential services and sectors—transport, water, energy, agriculture, food and drink, marine economies, environment, circular economy and forestry.
* Provide evidence-based advice to Ministers and connect with diverse stakeholders to translate strategic vision into action.
* Lead and enable the continued development of a high-performing Director General family and Senior Team with a strong, inclusive culture.
Experience and Leadership
* Significant experience leading strategy development and delivery in a large, complex organization (government, public or private sector).
* Demonstrable financial management of significant resources and capital budgets, with strong governance experience.
* Proven ability to deliver strategic objectives at pace through periods of ambiguity and organizational change.
* Extensive experience in major programmes and project delivery and operational delivery, with substantial Scottish Government capital programme exposure.
* Evidence of delivering measurable outcomes across specialist areas through cross-boundary collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
Success Profiles and Behaviours
* Behaviours: Seeing the big picture, Delivering at pace, Leadership, Communicating and Influencing, Making effective decisions (Level 6).
* Applicants will be assessed using the Success Profiles framework, including behaviours at the Senior Civil Service level.
How to Apply
Candidates must apply online with a CV and supporting statement (up to 500 words) addressing the Experience criteria. Ensure the statement demonstrates how you meet the specified experience requirements. Shortlisted candidates may undergo interviews, assessments, including psychological assessments and stakeholder engagement exercises. Timelines are indicative and subject to change; some assessments may be in person.
The Final Interview Panel will be in person in Edinburgh or Glasgow. Panel members include the Permanent Secretary and other senior figures.
Working Pattern and Benefits
Full-time; flexible and hybrid working options available. Standard hours: 37 per week. Location: Edinburgh with regular travel across Scotland and to London; hybrid arrangements apply.
Salary: £138,533 with additional Civil Service pension benefits. Benefits include learning and development, flexible working, inclusive culture, and a Civil Service pension with employer contributions.
Equality and Security
We are committed to equality, inclusion and recruiting a diverse workforce. BPSS security clearance is required, with Developed Vetting as a condition of appointment.
About Us
The Scottish Government is Scotland’s devolved government, responsible for policy areas including education, health, economy, justice, housing and transport. We offer rewarding careers and an inclusive working environment with a range of employee benefits.
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