Unlocking the SCS conference to take place in Edinburgh on 20 April 2010

As part of the FDA's series of Unlocking the SCS events, the union is to hold a conference in Edinburgh on 20 April 2010. It will focus on the particular issues faced by Scottish civil servants from diverse backgrounds who aspire to the most senior levels but who may not have the same network or job opportunities as their counterparts in the rest of the UK.

Scottish Government permanent secretary Sir John Elvidge is the keynote speaker. Other speakers include Gill Hammond, interim chief executive, Government Skills; Andy Ross, deputy director, Government Economic Service; and Dave Penman, FDA head of operations. The conference will be chaired by Alistair Marquis, assistant chief inspector HM Inspectorate of Education (Scotland).

Jim Caldwell, FDA Scottish Secretary, said: "We are building on the Unlocking the SCS brand in bringing in experienced and senior speakers who have knowledge of the issues from a distinctly Scottish perspective. This event is particularly timely given that roles in the SCS in Scotland, like elsewhere, may decrease in number and therefore be more difficult to obtain. We are also particularly delighted that Sir John Elvidge has agreed to speak."

For further details and to book a place, please go to the Unlocking the SCS Scotland website.