Chief Executive of Foods Standards Scotland

Scottish Government Recruitment • Aberdeen, WA

3d

About The Position

Applications are invited for this Senior Civil Service post as Chief Executive of Food Standards Scotland (FSS). This is a unique opportunity to take a leadership role in an organisation that protects consumers and shapes Scotland’s food environment.
Your application should provide a clear and concise account of the responsibilities you’ve held, highlighting key outcomes and successes. Please include evidence of the skills, experience, and expertise you would bring to this appointment.
Since its establishment in April 2015, Food Standards Scotland has delivered regulation and independent advice on food and animal feed safety and standards, food labelling, and public health nutrition. As Chief Executive, you will play a pivotal role in delivering consumer protection and improving public health.
Our mission is to protect the public from health risks associated with food consumption, improve diets to support good health, and safeguard consumer interests in relation to food. FSS operates as a body corporate governed by a Board of eight members appointed by Scottish Ministers. We have a unique position in government working independently of Ministers and industry to provide impartial advice based on robust science and data.
Our remit spans the entire food chain, ensuring food safety and promoting healthier eating. Our vision is clear: a safe authentic, and healthier food environment that Scotland can trust.
We will publish our Strategy 2026–31 on 11th February 2026, setting out how we will continue to adapt to a rapidly changing social, technological, and geopolitical landscape. Since our founding, FSS has evolved significantly, and we need to remain responsive, dynamic, and ready to act quickly.

Requirements

• Evidence of the skills, experience, and expertise you would bring to this appointment

Responsibilities

• Delivering consumer protection
• Improving public health
• Delivering regulation and independent advice on food and animal feed safety and standards, food labelling, and public health nutrition

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Education Level: No Education Listed