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First minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon says Scottish National party should be included in Whitehall pre-election talks

The civil service’s first chief executive has an ambitious agenda to define the next era of Whitehall reform – whatever those “damn politicians” might be planning. Jess Bowie meets him

Appointments, job changes and exits among senior civil servants and key figures in the wider public sector

Ben Yong and Robert Hazell's book on special advisers is a 'must read' for ministers,  spads and civil servants, says former cabinet secretary Lord O'Donnell

New Diplomatic Academy set up to improve knowledge and skills of FCO staff 

In spite of its negativity, John Seddon’s analysis should make Whitehall sit up and take notice, says Labour MP Barry Sheerman

Former prisons watchdog Stephen Shaw will lead a review into detainee welfare on home secretary’s request

Home secretary announces new chair of abuse inquiry, which will now have statutory powers 

Paul McDowell quits following concerns over bidding contracts with his wife’s company

Kate Gross, No. 10 private secretary to two prime ministers, was driven by a desire to make people’s lives better, writes Oliver Robbins

After the loss of two chairpeople over concerns about conflicts of interest, Theresa May confirms new appointee will be announced shortly

Public trust in civil servants is at an all-time high, says new survey

Sir Peter Housden is set to leave his role as permanent secretary to Scotland government

MI5 makes charity’s list of top employers for lesbian, gay and bisexual people

Former cabinet secretary Gus O’Donnell has warned his successor Jeremy Heywood to be ready for any number of scenarios after May 2015

Cabinet Office minister denies accusation of disillusionment in civil service

Group of former perm secs and other top civil servants produce wish list to tackle churn

Appointments, job changes and exits among senior civil servants and key figures in the wider public sector

George Osborne's spad enjoys significant pay rise 

Two of Theresa May's special advisers have been prevented from standing for Parliament because they refused to campaign for the Conservatives in the Rochester and Strood by-election.

The number of special advisers in government has increased from 93 to 103, according to the Cabinet Office

Officials’ guidance for inclusive Christmas e-cards gets a frosty reception

Chancellor George Osborne has re-appointed two external members of the Bank of England’s finance committee

The Civil Service must embrace failure as part of the innovation process if it is to succeed, minister for the Cabinet Office Francis Maude has said