Civil Service manager

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• working towards this role
• applying directly
• a graduate training scheme

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Work

You may be able to start in the Civil Service, for example, as a higher executive officer. You could then apply for a place on the Civil Service Fast Stream scheme , which can eventually lead into a management career.

Each department sets its own entry requirements, which often includes a university qualification. As an existing employee, you may be able to apply without a degree, though this varies between departments.

After completing the scheme and gaining experience, you could apply for a management role as vacancies become available.

DirectApplication

You'll be expected to have relevant experience to apply directly for jobs .

You'll also need technical skills relevant to the department you wish to join. For example, as a human resources (HR) manager, you'll need experience of using HR information systems, or project management skills for project management roles.

You'll be assessed on your skills, knowledge and behaviours that fit in with the values of the Civil Service , as part of the application process.

OtherRoutes

If you're a graduate, postgraduate or in your final year of university, you can apply for a place on the Civil Service Fast Stream scheme , which can prepare you for a career in leadership and management. Competition for places is very strong, so a degree with a higher grade and work experience will help you.

Your degree can be in any subject, though some Civil Service departments may prefer a degree in a subject that is relevant to their work, for example economics for the Treasury.

After completing the scheme, you'll be offered a role within a department. You would usually start as an executive officer or higher executive officer before you can move into a management job.

Further information

You can get more details about working in management from Civil Service Careers.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Skills:

• business management skills
• leadership skills
• customer service skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of human resources and employment law
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• active listening skills
• maths knowledge
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• the ability to sell products and services
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Civil Service managers work in government departments, managing teams that establish policies and provide public services.

Your day-to-day duties will depend on your department.

You could:

• lead a team to develop policies, products or services
• manage stakeholder relationships
• make sure policies meet legal guidelines
• draft briefings for senior colleagues and ministers
• manage contracts and plan resources
• oversee communications sent out by the department

Location : You could work in an office.
Uniform : You may need to wear smart business clothes.

Salary:

Starter : £32,000
Experienced : £72,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is between 8am and 6pm attending events or appointments

Career Path:

With experience, you could progress through the senior Civil Service management structure, becoming deputy director or director of a department. You could also become a senior policy adviser or permanent secretary, setting departmental strategy and supporting government ministers.

You could use your management skills and experience to work for other public sector organisations or move into the private sector.