Head of Service - Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

The Scottish Qualifications Authority (“SQA”) is at the heart of Scotland’s world class education and training system, supporting the development of skills, knowledge and understanding.

We are now recruiting a Head of Service to lead the team responsible for all SQA qualifications and assessments in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (“STEM”). With a high uptake among pupils and students, STEM is a key strategic area for Scotland and its economy.

The appointee will report to the Director of Qualifications, leading a team of some 45 staff, including Qualifications Managers, Qualification Co-ordinators, Qualification Officers, and Subject Implementation Managers.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading on the development of new qualifications to meet existing and future needs in this dynamic area
• Overseeing the annual exam diet in STEM, including the production of high quality assessment materials
• Leading on the provision of support in STEM to SQA’s centres
• Developing and building effective stakeholder networks, and leveraging value from them

The successful candidate will have a strong track record in leadership and people management and experience of working, and delivering, in the education sector. He/she will be an effective, credible and authoritative communicator, with excellent analytical skills, and the ability to solve complex problems.

The position carries a salary in the range of £50,160 to £56,337 pa. The successful candidate will be eligible to join a Career Average Pension Scheme where SQA contributes 19.3% of salary; the employee contribution is 8.1% of salary. We also offer staff well-being and health assistance programmes; development opportunities; and 27 days’ annual and 14 days’ public holidays.

The role will be based at SQA’s Glasgow Office, but the postholder will also visit the Dalkeith office on a regular basis. Relocation expenses will be payable, where appropriate.

Are you interested in contributing to SQA’s work in STEM, an area of strategic importance to Scotland? Then send your CV, with a short covering email, to Gordon Cairns, our retained search consultant, at gcairns@cairnswalker.co.uk.

SQA welcomes applications from every section of the community. SQA has a Gaelic Language Plan and is committed to its purpose.
Tha Plana Gàidhlig aig SQA agus tha sinn a' creidsinn gu h-àrachdach agus na h-amasan a tha air cur a-mach sa Phlana Nàiseanta don Ghàidhlig.

We are an Equal Opportunities employer and encourage applications from all members of the community. We are committed to the Disability Confident Initiative and offer a guaranteed interview to any applicant who considers themself to be disabled and who meets the competency requirements for the post.

Job Description