Delivering on the ministerial priorities in our Programme for Government remains the Scottish Government’s core focus. Civil servants play a vital role in turning policies into tangible improvements for Scotland’s people.
This year, we’ve made progress across all four of the first minister’s priorities – from improving transport affordability, supporting families, reducing health waiting times, creating jobs through inward investment and improving care for young people.
These achievements represent meaningful progress and deserve recognition for the difference they make to people and communities. But we know there’s more to do. Our focus is on building on these steps to deliver even greater impact.
The Civil Service Awards 2025 is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and recognise excellence in delivery. It’s an opportunity to highlight and showcase the good work that we do, lift up and champion our people and reflect on important achievements that we know will impact lives in a positive way.
It’s been a real pleasure to be involved in this year’s awards and I’m looking forward to celebrating the many contributions and achievements from colleagues across the civil service.
Joe Griffin is the permanent secretary of the Scottish Government and the co-champion for the Excellence in Delivery Award at this year's Civil Service Awards. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on 9 December. You can view the shortlist here