Person Specification

The people we are looking for

Skills and capabilities required

This role does not have direct responsibility for the People and Operations functions of the NAO. Instead they will help to build our knowledge in how these specialisms are delivered and managed across government and the wider public sector to build a centre of expertise which supports our audit work.

We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate expertise and significant experience of organisational leadership – particularly within people and/or corporate operations functions – and an ability to use that expertise in our work examining government. Successful candidates will be able to demonstrate their ability to build strong working relationships and influence positive change.

Other useful experiences include:

  • Experience of leading a range of strategic and/or corporate functions and of being part of the senior leadership team of a complex organisation
  • A successful track record of leading or co-ordinating corporate/management operations or in a complex organisation, with a clear understanding of what it takes to deliver effective public services
  • The ability to build and maintain a wide professional network
  • A good understanding of how People and Operational practices (including relationship management, goals and measurements, knowledge sharing, incentives and rewards, training) can be used to support organisational goals and development
  • Understanding of culture and change management principles and/or experience in managing change or acting as a change agent
  • The ability to use to range of approaches to effectively influence stakeholders and cultivate knowledge sharing behaviours
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience in building collaborative relationships with teams and colleagues
  • The ability to lead, develop and motivate diverse teams and support all colleagues to deliver great work and achieve their potential
  • Ability to deal with ambiguity and adapt to changing priorities and to support others to do so
  • Understands knowledge management practices in organisations in the private or third sector, professional services, government or public services

Desirable:

  • Relevant professional qualification – Chartered Fellow/fully qualified member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)
  • Postgraduate business management qualification
  • Experience of developing and applying methods and frameworks to review organisational effectiveness
  • Awareness of auditing and relevant industry trends