Senior Private Secretary to the Second Permanent Secretary

Ministry of Justice; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days annual leave

Leave buy/sell scheme

Public holidays + privilege day

Civil Service pension schemes

Paid maternity etc. leave

Training & development

Employee networks

Flexible benefits

Family-friendly policies

Job summary

Ministry of Justice is seeking a fixed-term maternity cover to lead the Office for the Permanent Secretary and Second Permanent Secretary. The post requires SC clearance, extensive senior-level experience, and a track record of managing a high-performing team in a fast-paced environment.

The role involves directing the Private Secretary team, advising the principals, and driving priorities through the Executive Team within a cross-criminal justice system remit, with hybrid working arrangements.

Qualifications

• Proven senior-level track record in a complex, fast-paced environment.
• Experience of working with or supporting very senior leaders or ministers.
• Experience of leading and motivating a team to build an inclusive, high-performing culture.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Permanent and Second Permanent Secretary's Office, managing a team of Private Secretaries so it runs smoothly and efficiently.
• Act as principal adviser to the Second Permanent Secretary.
• Drive the two principals' priorities through the Executive Team, supporting them to work together and build a collaborative culture.
• Provide leadership and oversight of the Second Permanent Secretary's cross-criminal justice system role, including the G7 Private Secretary who holds it.
• Work with the Deputy Director Principal Private Secretary to support both principals and deliver their priorities.
• Ensure the team communicates and collaborates well, both internally and with other Private Offices and the department.
• Act as a trusted confidential adviser, flagging risks and sensitive matters proactively.

Skills

Excellent written and oral comms

Interpersonal skills

Political awareness

Influence & negotiation

Judgement & resilience

Diversity, equity & inclusion

Job description

Ministry of Justice is seeking a fixed-term maternity cover to lead the Office for the Permanent Secretary and Second Permanent Secretary. The post requires SC clearance, extensive senior-level experience, and a track record of managing a high-performing team in a fast-paced environment.

The role involves directing the Private Secretary team, advising the principals, and driving priorities through the Executive Team within a cross-criminal justice system remit, with hybrid working arrangements.