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- Tasks: Lead the digital and data strategy for the UK Government, shaping public service delivery.
- Company: Join the Government Digital Service, driving the UK's digital transformation at the heart of government.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on millions by improving public services and shaping a digitally empowered state.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in digital transformation, team leadership, and stakeholder engagement required.
- Other info: This role is pivotal in building a modern digital government for the next decade.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ per year.
The Government Digital Service (GDS), part of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), is seeking a visionary and strategic Deputy Director to lead the digital and data strategy for the UK Government. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of public service delivery in one of the most impactful and mission-driven digital roles in government.
GDS sits at the heart of government’s digital and data revolution. We are charged with building a modern digital state, one that is joined-up, AI-enabled, underpinned by resilient digital infrastructure, and powered by brilliant people. This role will position you at the core of setting the agenda, tracking delivery, and shaping policy on digital transformation across Whitehall.
You will lead a high-performing, cross-functional team, working hand-in-hand with senior leaders across government, Treasury, DSIT, and other central departments. You’ll bring pace, structure and a compelling narrative to an ambitious reform agenda, helping define the strategic north star and then making sure government gets there. This is not business-as-usual. We are building the blueprint for a digitally sovereign government, ready for the next decade.
As Deputy Director for Strategy, You Will:
- Shape and Own the Digital Agenda: Lead the creation, evolution and implementation of the cross-government digital and AI strategy, aligned to the Blueprint for a Modern Digital Government and broader GDS goals.
- Build trusted partnerships with senior digital leaders, Ministers and/or equivalent board level senior leaders across government. Be a credible and influential voice in DSIT, HMT, the centre of government, and with operational departments.
- Spearhead the transformation of digital governance, strengthening transparency, accountability, and the conditions for success across the Digital and Data function.
- Secure Investment and Drive Change: Lead the function’s engagement with HM Treasury during fiscal events. Ensure that investment in digital, data and AI is strategic, joined-up, and properly considered in funding decisions.
- Lead a High-Impact, Flexible Team: Manage a team of strategists, analysts, transformation and portfolio professionals.
- Strategic Vision & Pragmatism: Proven ability to think long-term while solving problems in complex, fast-moving political environments. A strong track record of delivering major transformation programmes in digital, data or tech. Experience building inclusive, cross-functional teams that operate with pace, clarity, and purpose. A commitment to coaching and talent development.
- Ministerial Engagement: The ability to build and sustain trust with Ministers and/or equivalent board level senior leaders, conveying complex digital concepts in clear, compelling language.
- Stakeholder Mastery: Outstanding influencing and relationship-building skills across organisational boundaries, with the judgement and empathy to navigate competing priorities.
As Deputy Director, your work will touch the lives of millions improving the services they rely on and making the state more agile, ethical and digitally empowered.
Deputy Director - Business Strategy employer: Government Digital Service
Contact Detail:
Government Digital Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director - Business Strategy
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current digital and data strategies of the UK Government. Understanding the existing frameworks and initiatives will help you articulate how your vision aligns with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the government digital space. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet key stakeholders, including those from GDS and DSIT, to build relationships that could support your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading cross-functional teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed diverse groups to achieve strategic objectives in fast-paced environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in digital governance and AI. Being knowledgeable about emerging technologies and their implications for public service will demonstrate your commitment to innovation in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director - Business Strategy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Deputy Director - Business Strategy position. Familiarise yourself with the Government Digital Service's mission and how this role contributes to their goals.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in digital strategy, transformation programmes, and team leadership. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to navigate complex political environments and build trusted partnerships.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for public service and digital innovation. Clearly articulate how your strategic vision aligns with the GDS's objectives and provide examples of your past successes in similar roles.
Showcase Stakeholder Engagement Skills: In your application, emphasise your experience in building relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders. Highlight instances where you've successfully influenced decision-making and navigated competing priorities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Digital Service
✨Understand the Digital Agenda
Familiarise yourself with the current digital and AI strategies of the Government Digital Service. Be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to shaping the future of public service delivery.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in managing high-performing teams and driving transformation. Be ready to provide examples of how you've built inclusive, cross-functional teams that operate effectively in fast-paced environments.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement
Prepare to discuss your ability to build trusted relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders. Share specific instances where you've successfully navigated complex political environments and influenced decision-making.
✨Communicate Clearly and Compellingly
Practice conveying complex digital concepts in simple terms. During the interview, aim to articulate your ideas clearly, ensuring that your passion for digital transformation and public service is evident.
