At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative digital products for UK public services.
- Company: Department for Science, Innovation and Technology - shaping the future of government.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £260k, hybrid working, and impactful projects.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team of ~600 professionals driving national-scale digital innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by transforming how citizens interact with government services.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in digital product development and user-centred design.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) is looking for a Director General for Digital Products. We are looking for a world-class product leader to oversee the UK’s digital public services from the iconic GOV.UK to the next generation of app-based services. This role is about delivering a creative vision for a more personalised, intuitive, and responsive government.
What you will drive:
- The Next Generation of GOV.UK: Oversee the full launch of the GOV.UK App and the integration of GOV.UK Chat. You will harness conversational AI to transform how citizens navigate information and complete complex tasks.
- The National Digital Wallet: Scale the secure storage of verified government credentials (such as Digital Driving Licences and Veteran IDs) directly on citizens' mobile devices.
- Universal Authentication: Drive the GOV.UK One Login programme to become the default, seamless authentication method across all of central government.
- Critical National Infrastructure: Ensure the resilience and 99%+ uptime of high-volume platforms like Notify and Pay, which are essential to the daily functioning of the UK.
- National-Scale Leadership: Lead a multidisciplinary powerhouse of ~600 product managers, designers, engineers, and researchers across London, Manchester, and other hubs.
Who we are looking for:
- Proven leadership of digital product development and operations at large scale, with experience managing high-profile services and delivering measurable impact.
- Demonstrated ability to combine delivery excellence with strategic foresight - balancing operational leadership with creative thinking to shape the future direction of digital products.
- Deep understanding of user-centred design, accessibility, agile delivery, DevOps and platform strategy.
- Experience integrating emerging technologies (e.g. AI, mobile, digital identity) into consumer-facing products.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, with experience driving adoption across complex organisations.
- Ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams and build inclusive, high-performing cultures.
We are moving past "traditional government digital." We are building a personalised, AI-enhanced experience that rivals the best services in the private sector. If you have led this journey before and want to translate that experience into massive public impact, this is your platform. This is your chance to define what a modern digital government looks like in practice.
If you are interested in this vacancy, please follow the “EasyApply” process which will register your interest and add you to the distribution list for our dedicated microsite. For any further information, please reach out to Daniel White or Mercedes Sargant on 020 8253 1806, or via email.
Chief Digital Products Leader for National Public Services in England employer: Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead the transformation of digital public services that impact millions across the UK. With a hybrid working model and locations in London, Bristol, and Manchester, we foster a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth through innovative projects and cutting-edge technology. Join us to be at the forefront of creating a personalised, AI-enhanced government experience, while enjoying competitive remuneration and the chance to make a meaningful difference in public service.
Contact Detail:
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Digital Products Leader for National Public Services in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its digital products. We want you to show off your knowledge about their services and how you can contribute to their vision. It’s all about making a lasting impression!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You need to be able to clearly articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror until you feel confident.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get your application noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals ready to make an impact in public services.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Digital Products Leader for National Public Services in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Public Service:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for improving digital public services shine through. We want to see how your vision aligns with our goal of creating a more personalised and intuitive government experience for citizens.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase your previous leadership roles in digital product development. We’re looking for someone who has successfully managed high-profile services and can demonstrate measurable impact, so don’t hold back on those achievements!
Emphasise User-Centred Design:We value a deep understanding of user-centred design and accessibility. In your application, share examples of how you've integrated these principles into your work, especially when it comes to emerging technologies like AI and mobile solutions.
Engage with Our Team:Don’t forget to reach out if you have questions! We’re here to help you through the process. Apply through our website and make sure to connect with us if you need any further information or guidance.
How to prepare for a job interview at Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
✨Know Your Digital Landscape
Before the interview, dive deep into the current state of digital public services in the UK. Familiarise yourself with the latest developments on GOV.UK and understand how emerging technologies like AI are being integrated. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your strategic foresight and ability to drive innovation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership experiences, especially in managing large, multidisciplinary teams. Think of specific examples where you've fostered an inclusive culture or driven significant change. Highlighting your ability to balance operational excellence with creative thinking will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Engage with User-Centred Design
Be ready to talk about your understanding of user-centred design principles and how they apply to digital products. Share examples of how you've used feedback to enhance user experience, particularly in high-profile services. This will show your commitment to delivering personalised and intuitive government services.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Scenarios
Think about past experiences where you've successfully engaged stakeholders across complex organisations. Prepare to discuss how you influenced adoption of new digital products or services. This will highlight your strong communication skills and ability to drive collaboration, which is crucial for this role.
