What’s happened 

The Scottish Government has opened expressions of interest for a new Chief Allied Health Professions Officer.  

The role will sit within the Chief Nursing Officer Directorate and provide national professional leadership across the 14 allied health professions, including podiatry. 

It is being offered as a three-year secondment via a service level agreement, with applications open until 5 June 2026. 

What the role involves 

The successful candidate will work at a senior level across government, advising ministers and officials on policy, workforce and service delivery. 

The postholder will be expected to: 

• Represent the AHP voice within government 

• Support the development and delivery of health and social care policy 

• Work with NHS boards, education providers and professional groups 

• Contribute to national priorities, including public health and rehabilitation 

The role also includes engagement with senior political stakeholders, including ministers and requires close working across health and social care systems. 

Who can apply

The Scottish Government is seeking a practising allied health professional registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, with experience of leading services at a senior strategic level.  

Applicants are expected to show: 

• experience of national-level work 

• a track record of delivering service or practice change 

• strong leadership and partnership working skills 

Why this matters to members 

The role offers a direct route for allied health professions to influence national policy and decision-making. 

For podiatrists, it is an opportunity to ensure the profession’s contribution is reflected in areas such as workforce planning, service design and the shift towards community-based care. 

What happens next 

Expressions of interest must be sent by 5 June 2026.  

Applicants are asked to provide: 

• a CV (maximum four pages) 

• a 700-word statement outlining their interest in the role and the transferrable skills they would bring 

Submissions should be made via cno@gov.scot. Interviews are expected to take place on 23 June. 

Links and references 

Expressions of interest can be sent to cno@gov.scot