Now hiring: Chief People Officer
Join the Scottish Government Executive Team and help shape the future of the Civil Service in Scotland. We are seeking a trusted and influential HR leader who can turn strategic ambition into meaningful outcomes for our people.
Apply now
- Role: Chief People Officer
- Salary: £111,916 – £121,143
- Apply before: 16/09/2026, 23:55
Shape our workforce future
We are seeking a visionary and influential HR leader to shape and deliver the Scottish Government’s people agenda at a pivotal moment of organisational change.
As Chief People Officer, you will lead the development and delivery of a comprehensive People Plan, providing strategic, evidence-led advice to the Permanent Secretary and senior leaders to ensure the organisation has the capability, capacity and culture to deliver Government priorities.
Working closely with the new People Operations Director, you will provide leadership across the full people function, driving organisational modernisation and fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture that supports a more agile, efficient and capable Civil Service by 2030.
What you’ll lead
You’ll have responsibility over a range of key areas:
Strategic people leadership & workforce planning
You will lead the Scottish Government’s people agenda, developing and delivering a comprehensive People Plan that ensures the organisation has the capability, capacity and culture needed to achieve its strategic priorities.
Using data and evidence to shape future workforce models and drive organisational reform, you will build strong relationships with senior leaders across government and the wider Civil Service to support effective delivery.
Organisational transformation & HR service delivery
You’ll lead the modernisation of our organisation, helping build a more agile and efficient Civil Service by 2030. Alongside this, you’ll oversee key HR services and work in close partnership with the People Operations Director.
You’ll be at the forefront of shaping the future of HR in the Scottish Government, bringing external insight, championing innovation and ensuring our people services set the standard for excellence across the Civil Service.
Culture, leadership & talent development
You will champion a culture rooted in shared values, fostering inclusion, supporting wellbeing, strengthening psychological safety and empowering people to perform at their best.
You will also advance leadership capability across the Civil Service by driving modern, forward-thinking approaches to leadership development, succession planning and talent management.
Who we’re looking for
We are seeking applications from visionary and experienced HR leaders from a wide range of backgrounds who can bring strategic insight, inclusive values, and a strong track record of delivery in complex environments.
Whether your experience lies in government, the public sector, or beyond, you will demonstrate a commitment to public service, a collaborative leadership style, and the ability to drive meaningful change at scale.
If you are ready to take on a high-profile government position, we encourage you to apply.
Your application
To apply, please submit your CV along with a 500 word Supporting Statement that directly addresses the Experience Criteria listed in the Success Profile.
General or unrelated statements may result in your application being sifted out.
What we offer
Our benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits including:
- A competitive salary
- A generous pension scheme and annual leave package
- The opportunity to deliver meaningful work for the people of Scotland
- Access to ongoing professional development
- An inclusive and supportive workplace
Committed to diversity
We are committed to recruiting a workforce which is reflective of our diverse population, where individual contributions are encouraged and valued.
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants have the opportunity to perform at their best and we offer recruitment and workplace adjustments to anyone who needs them.
Ready to apply?
Visit the job advert via the link below for the full person specification and to apply.
Applications close 16/09/26.
Our application tips
Learn more about how to compose your Supporting Statement and CV.
Senior Civil Service recruitment: candidate guide
This guide provides useful information for anyone who is considering applying for a senior position at the Scottish Government.