The Senior Civil Service exists to provide high-level support to government ministers, assist in the development and implementation of government policy to enable delivery of better public service, and ensure the effective management of services. A broad group of 3,900 professionals are employed at this level, in 55 government departments and agencies across the country. The Civil Service attracts senior professionals who are adept in areas of finance, HR, procurement, legal, science and medicine, as well as strong operational/project managers.
All candidates at this level are required to demonstrate the following management attributes:
- Give purpose and direction by developing and communicating a vision for the future;
- Have an impact through ‘leadership by example’;
- Think strategically, harnessing ideas and opportunities to achieve goals;
- Get the best from people through motivation and development;
- Learn and improve, drawing on experience and innovation for enhanced results;
- Focus on delivery to achieve value for money and results.
SCS pay system
Salaries for senior civil servants depend on three things:
- structured pay bands set by the government
- the department they work in
- their performance in the role
There are three core bands, which broadly reflect responsibility levels in most organisations. These pay bands form the basis of any senior level starting salary.
- Band 1 – £58,200 - maximum £117,800
- Band 2 – £82,900 - maximum £162,500
- Band 3 – £101,500 - maximum £208,100
Permanent Secretary range: £141,800 – £277,300
Annual salary increases are performance-related.
Further Information
Further information about Senior Civil Service Pay and Performance Management: