Corporate Policy Advisor - Council Headquarters

Job Details

Grade: 10A

Hourly Rate: £29.21 - £30.54

Salary: £10662.19 - £11147.64 per annum

Contract Duration: Temporary cover until 31/12/2026 or the earlier return of the post holder.

Role Purpose

The opportunity
We are looking for a clear thinker and strong writer to support the Council’s Corporate Policy team for a short, focused period. Working seven hours a week, you will help us analyse important policy developments, prepare briefings and reports, and support senior officers and elected members on issues affecting the Council and the Scottish Borders.

This is a time-limited opportunity ending on 31 December 2026. It may suit someone who can offer a regular day each week and who wants to apply policy, research and writing skills in a local-government setting. There is no commitment to employment beyond the stated end date, and any later vacancy would be subject to a separate recruitment process.

What you will do

• Research and interpret national policy, legislation and public-sector developments.

• Turn complex information into clear and concise briefings, reports and advice.

• Support work on Council priorities, public service reform, governance and community planning.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the Council and with external partners.

• Manage a focused workload and deliver high-quality material to short deadlines. What we are looking for

• Degree-level education or equivalent relevant experience.

• Strong analytical, research and written communication skills.

• An understanding of government, public policy or the environment in which councils work.

• The ability to work independently, exercise sound judgement and collaborate effectively.

• Availability to work seven hours per week during the full period from 1 November to 31 December 2026.

Working arrangements
The seven hours will normally be worked as one day each week, with the precise day agreed to meet service needs. The role will use blended working, with appropriate attendance at Council Headquarters and meetings as required. Council IT equipment will be provided where necessary.

Essential

Education / training Degree-level education or equivalent relevant experience.

Analysis Ability to research, assess evidence and identify implications from complex policy or legislative material.

Written communication Ability to write clearly, accurately and succinctly for senior and non-specialist audiences.

Knowledge Understanding of government, public policy and the context in which local authorities operate.

Organisation Ability to prioritise work, work independently and meet tight deadlines within a seven-hour weekly commitment.

Relationships Ability to work collaboratively and communicate confidently with colleagues and partners.

Digital Competent use of Microsoft 365 and digital research and drafting tools.

Availability Able to start on or around 1 November 2026 and work through 31 December 2026.

Informal Enquiries

Informal enquiries may be made to Michael Cook by telephone on 01835825590 or by email at Michael.Cook@scotborders.gov.uk.

Scottish Borders Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all minority groups and individuals who identify with one or more of the protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010. In particular from candidates who assess themselves as having a disability, under the Disability Confident Employer scheme this guarantees an interview to those individuals who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.

Scottish Borders Council is committed to providing support for Armed Forces Veterans. Showing its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, the Council guarantees an interview to veterans who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.

Employability Support –The Employability Service - For support on completing job applications, Scottish Borders residents can access free support from our specialist Employability Team. Please contact us via the switchboard 01835 824000 asking to be transferred to the Employability Service or email employability@scotborders.gov.uk. You can also find more about the support we have to offer, by visiting our website for more information https://www.scotborders.gov.uk/help-finding-job/support-employment