How to become a Higher Executive Officer
There is no single path into Higher Executive Officer roles. Campaigns hire from inside government and from outside, using Success Profiles to compare evidence fairly.
Build evidence at the right level
At HEO, assessors expect: independent judgement, leading small pieces of work and connecting your work to team goals. Collect examples that show that depth before you apply.
Application route
- Find an open campaign on Civil Service Jobs.
- Note the behaviours and word limits in the advert.
- Write STAR statements pitched at HEO.
- Prepare for a behaviour interview using the same examples.
See the HEO grade hub and interview guide.