International Strategy and Capability Manager - B3

The Directorate for Culture and External Affairs (DCEA) brings together the Scottish Government’s work on Culture, Population and Migration, International Climate Change, External Affairs and International Development. The Directorate leads on engaging at home and internationally to enhance Scotland's reputation and increase sustainable economic growth, pursue our interests overseas and strengthen our international relationships and partnerships. This post sits within the International Strategy and Reputation division, which aims to strengthen Scotland's international impact by:

• Developing and implementing Scotland’s International Strategy with a focus on continuous improvement

• Engaging on the international elements of inter-governmental relations across the UK and the development of our network of international offices.

• Improving Scotland’s economic and social wellbeing and influence by realising internationally the full benefits of our assets, including brand, sports, culture, events and progressive policies such as culture

• Communicating with international audiences and helping to build and develop Scotland’s reputation as the best place to live/work, study, visit and do business.

Key responsibilities

• Support the refresh of the Scotland’s International Strategy, working at pace with colleagues across SG including SpAds and Private Offices, public bodies and other stakeholders to draft a coherent and publicly defensible product cleared by Ministers. Lead on related parliamentary interest, maintaining briefings for debates and PQs.

• Engage with analytical colleagues to provide evidence and insight that informs the team's strategic priorities, including the refresh and implementation of Scotland's International Strategy.

• Manage the Policy Profession’s standard 1.4 Working Internationally programme. Develop and manage a programme of online and in-person events and sessions for the International School, and supporting directorate-wide learning and development efforts.

• Grant manager for the Scottish Council on Global Affairs. Drive the AO and Ministerial clearance process for SCGA funding, working with the organisation to ensure proper financial and other reporting.

• [TBC Line manage B1]

• The jobholder will be willing and able to lead and contribute to different projects in response to changing priorities across the team, wider Division and Directorate, taking responsibility for their work and learning and development

• Undertake FoIs, PQs, Micase and briefing duties as required for the division’s policy area.

Experience:

• Working strategically, creatively and at pace across SG, public bodies and external stakeholders with the ability to develop trusted working relationships

• Experience of working with analysts and using evidence to inform policy development and decision-making, drawing out key conclusions and practical implications.

• Experience of project and grant management and good organisational skills.

• A good understanding of the workings of government, with experience of briefing senior colleagues and Ministers on complex matters.

• Experience in or demonstrable understanding of international relations in the devolved context

Technical skills:

1. Policy Context and Purpose – Level 2 – Practitioner
2. Governance and Project Delivery – Level 1 – Practitioner
3. Evaluation – Level 1 - Developing