Permanent Secretary, Scottish Government
What are you most proud of achieving during 2011?
We developed a clear strategy for the Scottish Government as a civil service organisation. At its heart is an evidence-based improvement methodology ("Changing the World"), strong governance and a real commitment to giving staff a voice. On this basis, we were well-prepared for the election and the new administration, and are ready for the challenges ahead.
How has the shape and structure of the Scottish Government changed during 2011?
The Scottish Government operates as a single entity without departments. There is also real strength in relations with arm's-length bodies and our wider delivery partners. This year we have continued to rationalise and strengthen our senior structures on this basis, appointing three new directors general and a chief economist. We have a major organisational re-design in development with our staff and partners, designed to further improve our impact through greater flexibility and productivity, and to reduce costs by a further 20 per cent over the spending review period.
What is the most important thing the Scottish Government must achieve during 2012?
Sustain our levels of energy and optimism. There are big challenges ahead. We need to support growth in Scotlandís GDP and employment, and maintain the government's reputation for competence. We are engaged in an ambitious policy programme including the creation of a single police service and fire and rescue service for Scotland, major reform of adult care, and minimum pricing for alcohol. We are also preparing for the referendum on independence in the second half of the parliament.
These are exciting and challenging times, in which we can make a real difference for Scotland. The Scottish Governmentís decision to effect staffing reductions through increased flexibility and efficiency and without recourse to compulsory redundancy is critically important.
But we do not take the goodwill and drive of our staff for granted. Wages are frozen. The changes to pension entitlements are causing real and continuing concern. In this climate, measures to give staff a voice and the ability to contribute broadly to the organisation are more important than ever.
How is the civil service likely to change during 2012?
Our relationship with the UK government is critical, and is given new urgency and importance by the passage of the Scotland Bill and the work toward the referendum. Greater prominence to government-to-government relations and deeper engagement with Whitehall-based departments on a broad front are important civil service priorities this year, endorsed by Jeremy Heywood and Bob Kerslake.
Which historical, mythological or contemporary figure would you most like to join for Christmas dinner?
Roy Orbison and Alison Kraus. I'd ask them to sing "In Dreams". That would make anyone's Christmas.