Article 3: Kosovo Senior Public Appointments Competency Framework

What are Competencies?

Competencies define behaviours that are critical to successful performance within a particular organisation.

Competencies are the criteria against which candidates in recruitment processes are measured. Having clear and well-defined criteria is the foundation of any merit-based recruitment. To see more on the importance of competencies see our article on Merit-based Recruitment Principles.

Using Competencies for Senior Public Appointments in Kosovo

Competencies form a central part of the selection processes that are monitored by the British Embassy Project.

There are 11 competencies within the competency framework used by the project - these are:

Strategic Thinking
Creative Thinking
Problem Solving
Results Orientated
Leadership
Management
Communication
Networking (Teamworking)
Adaptability
Developing Self and Others
Integrity

Each of the areas is underpinned by a set of ‘behavioural indicators’. These provide an outline of the types of behaviour that would be expected from someone performing effectively in a senior leadership role.

An example is provided below:

Strategic Thinking

Able to understand and relate things to a broader context as well as articulate the long-term vision of the organization, and prepare plans for the realization of that vision.

Establishes and clearly explains the organisation's long-term vision and direction
Offers advice to ministers on the future strategy of the organisation
Develops and promotes clear strategic plans for the organisation
Anticipates and plans for future changes in client and stakeholder requirements
Aligns the organisation's plans to fit within the broader strategy of ministers, government and civil service
Develops and maintains an in-depth understanding of clients sector and communities served by the organisation
Understands the political, economic, strategic, technological, environmental and legal factors that may influence the organisation
Uses client and public feedback to set organisation's strategic direction

The full competency framework can be downloaded here.

Making Best Use of the Competency Framework

For candidates preparing for a competency-based interview, it is well worth familiarising yourself with the content of each competency. It can help you plan for the interview, and consider which situations within your previous working experience best demonstrate the behaviours described. In preparing for your interview, the behavioural indicators can act as a useful benchmark to understand the level and type of past behaviour that the Commission will be expecting you to describe to demonstrate your readiness for the role.

Why is the Competency Framework Being Released Publicly?

It is important for candidates to have a clear understanding of the criteria against which they will be assessed within any selection process. This can help maximise fairness and transparency, and also give candidates the opportunity to deliver their best performance in the interview. On this basis, the competency framework is now freely available to all candidates who are considering applying for a Senior Public Appointment.

When is the Competency Framework Being Used?

The framework is currently being used in all senior public appointment processes monitored by the British Embassy Project. Commissions receive training in competency-based interviewing techniques, which includes familiarisation with the specific content of the framework. We are encouraging other institutions involved in senior appointment to use the framework too.

How was the Competency Framework Developed?

The headings within the framework were initially based upon existing Kosovo legislation and guidance. The behavioural descriptors were drafted based upon benchmarking activity of a broad range of international public sector competency frameworks. These were then reviewed, adapted and approved by a representative sample of senior public officials within Kosovo.