Head of Local Government Policy and Relationships - C2

This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.

Overview

This dynamic, engaging role will suit an individual who relishes working independently, flexibly and at pace. It presents an opportunity to shape the ways of working and relationship with local government at the outset of a new administration – building on the Verity House Agreement to reflect the optimal working framework in the context of driving Public Service Reform (PSR) to deliver effective, sustainable services for communities.

Based in VQ with frequent working in person in SAH and our stakeholders’ offices across the central belt, the post sits within Local Government Division in the Directorate for Local Government & Communities, within DG Communities & External Affairs. The Division comprises approximately 45 staff, organised into several units: Local Government Finance and Non-Domestic Rates; Local Taxation; Analytical Services; Local Government Policy; LG Public Service Reform and Business Management.

The work of the team – and the directorate more generally – includes outward facing engagement across the wider Scottish Government and local government sector. This post has responsibility for delivering and implementing the New Charter for Local Self Government – which builds on the previous Verity House Agreement – and continuing development of the Community Planning and Place Directors frameworks. This will involve navigating a period of change in Local Government in the run up to next year’s local elections, and in the context of PSR.

The Directorate places a high level of importance on creating a positive working environment where the civil service values are actively promoted and adhered to. Staff across the division have the opportunity to reach their full potential with a strong focus on learning, development and self-expression working, as well as good teamwork.

Working closely with the Deputy Director and Director, and in partnership with the Senior Leadership Team and across the directorate as a whole, you will play a key role in making the Directorate for Local Government a great place to work as a high performance and high engagement team. You will be responsible for leading the relationship between Scottish Government and Local Government. This role plays a vital part in ensuring Scottish Ministers’ ambitions can be delivered, through constructive and effective partnership working with local government. 

Responsibilities:

• Lead the Local Government Policy Unit, empowering the team to lead specific policy responsibilities and to support teams across Government in working with local authorities and with COSLA.

• Lead relationship with COSLA, SOLACE and local government and developing strong relationships with the DFM and Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government

• Work across the Government to develop a clear understanding of the cross SG position on policy and joint working between the two spheres of government, including supporting DG and the Permanent Secretary with strategic engagement.

• Draw on this understanding - and using acumen and knowledge of the organisation - to horizon scan across wider strategic and political environments, and identify emerging critical issues.

• Use effective analysis and tact to implement appropriate action in support of constructive working between Scottish Government and Local Government, including advising the deputy director and director and providing strategic and tactical advice as required. 

• Progress guidance, awareness raising and embed new ways of working to support the Charter of Local Self Government as it is embedded into Scots Law from Autumn 2026.

• Lead the development of the framework to support best impact from Community Planning Partnerships and from the Place Directors’ network, including in support of PSR and supporting the effective delivery of services for communities

• Ensuring effective sponsorship of the Accounts Commission

• Play a key role in the collective leadership of the Directorate as a whole

Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive C2 grade employees. 

Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).

Vacancies close at 23:59pm on Wednesday 22 July.

Selection Process

All applicants will be invited to an informal discussion with the hiring manager. There will be no formal testing or assessment.  

Discussions are expected to be scheduled for w/c TBC.