Alex Massie Alex Massie

A Very 21st Century Racket

I think this is an advertisement for some kind of high-falutin’ weather forecaster.

HEAD OF HORIZON SCANNING CENTRE   The Foresight Programme   London base – Competitive salary The Government Office for Science, led by the Government Chief   Scientific Adviser is located in the Department for Innovation, Universities   and Skills. Within this office the Foresight Programme strengthens   strategic policy making by embedding an evidence-based futures approach across government. Horizon Scanning (HS) is the systematic examination of potential threats,   opportunities and likely developments, including but not restricted   to those at the margins of current thinking and planning. The Horizon   Scanning Centre’s (HSC) main aims are to undertake HS for Government   and to help Government Departments raise their HS capabilities. In this high profile role, you will be expected to develop the HSC?s vision   and direction, leading and creating the best mix of teams and resources.   You will continue to build and maintain the high level cross-Government   market for strategic futures products and services, working with   other relevant centres and cross-Government groups as necessary.   You will lead in improving further the evidential and analytical basis for   horizon scanning, so that the UK Government is positioned increasingly   at the cutting-edge of the field. With substantial experience and competence in futures work and/or   strategic analysis, you will possess strong leadership and communication   skills and a commitment to quality and continuous improvement. An   analytical and strategic thinker and influencer, your ability to manage   complex programmes will be proven, as will your confidence to deal   with people of all levels. A strong analytical background in science,   economics or operational research is essential. Experience of strategy   work in the private sector and/or international environment would   be a distinct advantage as would knowledge of more than one kind of analysis.

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