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Public Appointments > Produce guidance > Guidance for selection panels

Guidance for selection panels

The work of selection panels is critical to the successful outcome of an appointment round. Alongside the Code of Practice and Statutory Guidance, we publish:

  • Non-statutory guidance for selection panels;
  • Good practice case studies;
  • Good practice snippets focusing on specific parts of the appointments process; and
  • Guidance by external organisations that may be of interest and support to selection panels.

These are produced with the aim of helping selection panels achieve the best outcomes on appointment rounds.

Link, key summary of the Code of Practice/ Code Aide Memoire

 

Link: good practice on planning snippet

 

link: guidance on assessment and recording assessment
Board member core skills framework

 

Link: good practice on publicity

 

mitigating unconscious bias
Link: model agenda for planning an appointment round

 

link: managing conflicts of interest

Recent good practice case studies

View all case studies

Highlands and Islands Enterprise Appointment Round - Good Practice in Collaborative Working (2025)

A case study illustrating the steps taken by the Highlands and Islands Enterprise selection during an appointment round in 2025. The round resulted in a successful appointment consistent with Ministerial expectations, identifying a candidate who demonstrated a strong understanding of the Highlands and Islands region, experience relevant to HIE’s strategic challenges, and the leadership capability required for the role. The panel were satisfied that the process had been robust, collaborative and well managed, leading directly to a high quality outcome.

Crown Estate Scotland Appointment Round - Good Practice in Planning (2025)

This Good Practice Case Study relates to an appointment round seeking new members for the Crown Estate Scotland board in 2025.  The round was characterised by a panel who invested time in planning, refining documentation, and adopting innovations to manage the expected volume of applications, and to enhance the applicant experience. These preparations contributed to a demonstrably successful outcome. Members of selection panels may wish to consider this case study in detail to understand how approaches towards planning and assessment can support candidates and the panel itself through the appointments process. 

Scottish Funding Council Appointment Round - Good Practice in Lessons Learned (2025)

This Good Practice Case Study relates to an appointment round seeking a new chair for the Scottish Funding Council in 2025. It followed an initial unsuccessful attempt at filling the role, and the case study showcases how the panel conducted a thoughtful lessons learned process.

Scottish Enterprise Appointment Round - Good Practice in Early Engagement and Planning (2023)

A case study illustrating the steps taken by Scottish Enterprise, particularly during Early Engagement and Planning, during an appointment round in 2023.