In autumn 2006 the Cabinet Office launched a new skills framework to support the development of professional skills for government. The PSG framework represents a new and more structured way of describing Civil Service positions and careers.
General information on PSG can be found on the Civil Service website (external link).
The PSG framework requires candidates to demonstrate skills and expertise in four areas at the appropriate level in relation to their job and chosen career path.
Core Skills: these are skills in:
- People Management
- Project and Programme Management
- Strategic Thinking (SCS only)
- Analysis and use of Evidence
- Communications and Marketing (Senior Civil Service only)
- Financial Management
More details and examples of core skills requirements can be found on the Civil Service website (external link).
The PSG model is integral to all roles and is a key part to performance management and reward programmes implemented within the Civil Service. Details below highlight how this applies to the grading structure and the performance management programme there in:
Grade specific PSG cumulative requirements
Identifying your stengths and realising your potential: How it fits together:
Leadership:
Is at the heart of the model
Leadership skills are central to this model. Due to the specialist skill requirements of the MHRA a number of roles without direct management responsibility fall within this framework. Therefore it is understood that experience of direct management may not always be required. In such roles, where candidates do not have direct management experience, applicants should demonstrate personal leadership skills. Candidates should therefore tailor their response firstly to their experience and further to the requirements of the role, as defined on the job description.
N.B. The above guidance is also applicable in providing evidence in relation to Skill 1 – People Management.
PSG leadership behaviours:
- am a visible leader who inspires trust
- focus on strategic outcome
- take personal responsibility for delivering results effectively and swiftly
- work across traditional boundaries
- match resources to business priorities
- am honest, courageous and realistic with staff and Ministers
- constantly learn
Assessment
Candidates should provide evidence within their personal statements demonstrating how they meet the relevant PSG core skills for the post they are applying for. Where possible the Agency will try to ensure that it is possible for you to provide relevant evidence against the requirements of the essential criteria. Evidence for PSG core skills not covered within the essential criteria should be provided for in a separate paragraph. The essential criteria will detail the relevant number of the PSG skill that it refers to.
Further details of core skills for your discipline and career grouping can be found on the Civil Service website (external link).
Candidates selected for interview will be given details of a presentation. The presentation will be relevant to both the requirements of the role and PSG core skills. Candidates will be required to demonstrate that they meet the relevant PSG core skill level to be successful in their application.
Contact for further information
If you have any questions please contact our Human Resources Division on 020 3080 6234.
