Government Finance Profession

Finance Professionals

Gateway Standards

In addition to financial management being a core skill under the Professional Skills for Government (PSG) programme, Cabinet Office also asked us to define the gateway and expertise required of Finance Professionals at Grade 7, SCS Payband 1 and SCS Payband 3.

Following agreement with Finance Directors and Heads of Finance Professionalism, this framework may be accessed on the links below.  It can also be found on the Cabinet Office microsite http://psg.civilservice.gov.uk/skill_selection.asp by clicking on the outer circle marked 'Professional Expertise'.

• Gateway Standards and Professional Expertise for Finance Professionals - GRADE 7
• Gateway Standards and Professional Expertise for Finance Professionals - SCS PB1
• Gateway Standards and Professional Expertise for Finance Professionals - SCS PB3

Please bear in mind that the gateway and expertise is cumulative as you progress through the grades. For those of you who are Finance Professionals in a policy or operational delivery area, you are also expected to exhibit the expertise of those areas. If you are not quite sure whether or not you are a Finance Professional just ask yourself the question "Do I meet or aspire to the Grade 7 Gateway Standard for a Finance Professional, and do I wish to be classified as such?"

We make no apologies for setting the bar high because we believe that central government deserves the best Finance Professionals. It is also an important driver for better financial management. However, advancement under PSG means that in addition to your CCAB qualification, you must gain the experience that comes from doing various finance jobs for sufficient periods of time. You are also required to demonstrate leadership abilities and broader experience - as well as complying with your CPD requirements.

Feedback and/ or queries on any aspect of the above can be addressed to David Smith.