Unlocking the Senior Civil Service

Tuesday 23rd June 2026

Despite the prevailing public sector environment, opportunities continue to exist to enter the Senior Civil Service. However, the process is rigorous, the competition is fierce and openings are restricted. This unique event, now in its eleventh year, provides practical help and guidance to those wishing to see their career develop into the Senior Civil Service. It is specifically designed to give you the answer to two vital questions:

How can I improve my chances of entering the SCS?

What will life be like once I am there?
 

Why Attend?

• The benefits of attending this conference include the opportunity to:
• Resolve the questions in your mind about whether or not the SCS is right for you
• Learn from experts about what you can do to improve your chances of making the grade
• Gain a deeper understanding of the skills, qualities and competencies required to be successful in the SCS
• Examine the barriers and enablers affecting your progression
• Hear from recent entrants about how they made the move and what life is like now they are there
• Network with peers and counterparts from across government who are also contemplating an SCS career

09:30

Welcome & introduction to the conference

09:40

Permanent Secretary Opening Address

Jessica De Mounteney, First Parliamentary Counsel and Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Office

10:15

Comfort break

10:30

What do ministers expect from their SCS?

Understand what ministers require from senior civil servants

RT Hon Andrew Lansley CBE, Former Health Secretary 2010 – 2012

11:10

Comfort break

11:30

Preparing for the SCS: Success Profile Selection

You've decided you're ready for the challenge and want a leadership role in the SCS. In this practical and interactive session, you will discover what it will take to make the most of your application using the new Success Profile process.

Richard Hillsdon, Civil Service Selection Consultant; Former Senior Civil Servant

12:30

Break for lunch

13:30

Making the most of your Application and Interview Performance

You want to take the next step but now face the sift/interview assessment stages based on Success Profile elements. In this second practical and interactive session, you will review your approach, lessons from the past, and what influences panels.

Richard Hillsdon, Civil Service Selection Consultant; Former Senior Civil Servant

14:30

Comfort break

14:45

Personal perspectives - my route into the SCS

An SCS panel look back on their careers and answer questions about their experience of gaining entry to the SCS & discuss what life is like now they are there

Mary Lowe, Deputy Director Asylum Group Corporate Hub, Home Office

16:00

Chair's closing remarks & conference close