Job Description
The IS is working with the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute, the Sustainable Scotland Network, COSLA and Scottish Government to establish a Scottish Climate Intelligence Service which will build capacity within Scottish local authorities to improve decision making for area-wide emissions reduction by providing the data and tools, and building the skills and confidence in using them, to deliver better climate outcomes and realise the social and economic benefits of a zero carbon Scotland.
The purpose of the Local Leads role is to support the Capacity Building side of the Scottish Climate Intelligence Service (SCIS), working closely with the Capacity Building Manager and wider team, to deliver practical insight and support at local level. The role will work closely with a group of five or six local authorities, providing a local assessment service and supporting capability and capacity building. This will support local authorities to understand the data presented on the data platform and how to use this to help reduce area wide emissions.
The Local Lead's service is locally focused and driven by the local authorities' needs. They will provide tailored support whilst drawing out common themes and connecting to the Data Team and Programme Management Office to facilitate knowledge sharing and support continuous development of the service. Local authorities will be supported to understand the data from the national emissions dataset and how to use this to take evidence-based decisions on projects to maximise carbon reduction.
The appointment will be until 31 March 2027 with the likelihood of re‑appointment subject to continuation of funding, a satisfactory performance assessment and the role meeting the continuing requirements of the Scottish Government, COSLA, the Improvement Service, ECCI and SSN.
Information
Skills and knowledge
Applicants must demonstrate excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex ideas clearly and use evidence and data to influence change.
Strong training and capacity building skills are essential, alongside the ability to build effective working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including councils and partner organisations.
The role also demands excellent collaborative and organisational skills, a proven track record of managing and delivering projects, and the creativity and innovation needed to drive improvement and development.
Location: Your primary place of work will be West Lothian Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6FF but the Company reserves the right to change this to any place within 30 miles of this office. It is anticipated that the role will involve a blended model of office and home working. Travel throughout Scotland may be required and as this is a partnership project with the University of Edinburgh, meetings may be held at Edinburgh Climate Change Institute. This flexible approach will be agreed between employee and line manager. Attendance will be required, in person, at quarterly meetings either in the Livingston office or at another suitable venue. Expenses will be agreed on a case‑by‑case basis.
Duration: Up to 31 March 2027 (with likely extension beyond this date subject to funding)
Hours of contract: 36 hours (full time) or part time will be considered.
Advert closing date: Sunday 7th June 2026
If you have any questions about this role contact alex.rathmell@improvementservice.org.uk
Employment Information
Pay is only one of the benefits of working for the IS, our terms and conditions are progressive and flexible and employees are rewarded with a generous annual leave entitlement of forty one days per year as well as a flexible working policy.
Equal Opportunities
The IS is committed to promoting equality and diversity in all its activities to promote inclusive processes, practices and culture. The IS is a Disability Confidence Committed Employer. We are committed to interviewing anyone with a disability who meets the essential criteria.
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