CEO, Prison Services Transformation & Public Safety

Scottish Government; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 111,000 - 129,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in Scotland is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead the Scottish Prison Service. The role requires strong leadership to manage approximately 5,200 staff and ensure effective delivery of prison services while addressing government priorities and fiscal constraints. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in leading large organisations through transformation and possess exceptional financial acumen. This key position will oversee major programmes and work collaboratively with justice organizations to enhance safety and public trust.

Benefits

Civil Service pension contribution

Learning and development tailored to your role

Flexible working options

Culture encouraging inclusion and diversity

Qualifications

• Proven track record of leading large organisations through strategic transformation.
• Experience of operational delivery and overseeing major capital programmes.
• Exceptional financial stewardship and ability to operate in a high-profile environment.

Responsibilities

• Set strategic direction and deliver government priorities for prisons.
• Lead transformation across SPS and embed cultural change.
• Act as Accounting Officer ensuring governance in capital delivery.
• Represent SPS with Ministers, Parliament, regulators, and partners.

Skills

Leadership

Influencing skills

Financial acumen

Communication skills

Job description

A government agency in Scotland is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead the Scottish Prison Service. The role requires strong leadership to manage approximately 5,200 staff and ensure effective delivery of prison services while addressing government priorities and fiscal constraints. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in leading large organisations through transformation and possess exceptional financial acumen. This key position will oversee major programmes and work collaboratively with justice organizations to enhance safety and public trust.