I think it's for mx11 and mx10. Not sure about mx9.

I guess that the primary reason was probably they saw the need to split mx11 into mx11 and mx11a and wanted to do so without negative responses from the ground. Have to ensure that people are not pissed off by the creation of mx11a, which causes mx10 to seem harder to attain under the new system.

Were you primarily posted to policy roles?

Is being in Policy roles better? Is it harder to get in/survive in Policy?

I feel that there are more opportunities for profiling in policy. This cld possibly result in better career progression?

You can profile anywhere if you have a good boss ! It is really hard to find a good boss in civil service though ;) . Non-AOs too lepak. AOs too high expectations. lol.

Had four postings (three of which were for policy work) in seven plus years. Just starting on my fifth posting. I must say I was really blessed to have had several good bosses.

Bosses (especially if you get to work directly with Ds/SDs/GDs) really play a critical role - in assigning high-profile work, providing opportunities for snr mgt to know you, as well as giving due recognition and fighting for good grades/CEP.

Out of curiosity, are you from an economic- focused, security/defence-focused or social-focused ministry?

It's a little more justifiable if that's indeed the case.

Anyone know what is SSO in civil service?

Senior Staff Officer