For over two decades, the RMA has played an important role in supporting public protection in Scotland. We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Executive. This is a rare opportunity for someone with management experience, excellent interpersonal skills, and knowledge of the justice system and political landscape to continue to lead the organisation and build on our work in public protection.
As Chief Executive of the Risk Management Authority (RMA), you will lead the organisation to effectively discharge its statutory obligations to help protect the public and make Scotland a safer place to live and work. You will be expected to effectively engage and influence senior stakeholders across the Scottish justice system to improve current practice in the management of serious violent and sexual offenders, through establishing and operating effective standards, accreditation, approval and governance approaches.
In this role, will be responsible for leading the RMA in researching, shaping and proposing policy relating to effective practice in risk assessment and management. Some of the main accountabilities of this post are:
The Chief Executive operates at a senior level in the Scottish policy landscape. We are looking for an experienced strategic leader, who can lead the Senior Management Team in creating a high performing organisational culture that upholds the organisation’s values and maximises the contribution of staff, both as individuals and in teams, so that the organisation can continue to learn, change and deliver maximum contribution to public value.
The Chief Executive has critical roles to play as Accountable Officer and in managing the Board, and you should have proven, demonstrable success in leading internal and external strategy and governance processes.
You should have knowledge of the Scottish justice system and its place in the current political and legislative context; and have a significant background in the issues associated with public protection and managing risk in a complex multi-agency landscape.
The Organisation
The RMA is a Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) established in 2005 by the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2003. Sponsored by the Scottish Government’s Community Justice Division, the organisation plays a vital role in supporting the delivery of the Scottish Government’s Vision for Justice.
We are a small team of fewer than 30 highly skilled and passionate professionals, who are dedicated to making a positive difference across Scotland. As part of the Scottish Government, we’re pleased to be able to offer a wide range of benefits including 30 days annual leave plus 11 ½ public/privilege holidays you use flexibly at a time that suits you, and an excellent civil service pension provision.
We really value the experience and expertise of our team. Supporting your professional development is a priority for us, and we’re proud to provide a generous CPD offering. We also provide an Employee Assistance Service (EAS) where you can get expert guidance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, whether you’re experiencing issues at work or at home.
Applications are being handled by Aspen People. If you have any queries or wish to discuss the role, please contact Catriona Mackie or Linda Baldwin at Aspen People on 0141 212 7555.
Key Dates
Application Closing Date: November 27, 2026
Interviews: Mid-January 2027, exact dates to be announced to progressing candidates