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- Tasks: Drive innovation by exploring emerging technologies and leading proof-of-concept initiatives.
- Company: Join Defra, the UK government department dedicated to protecting our environment and supporting agriculture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and the chance to make a real impact on society.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of technology in public service.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of emerging tech trends and experience in IT consulting are essential.
- Other info: This role offers opportunities for collaboration with academia and industry leaders.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Location
Our main Defra DDTS hubs are in York, Warrington, Newcastle, Reading and Bristol, however the successful candidate may be contractually based at any Defra office.Please be aware that space within the London office is restricted and it may not be possible to be based in this location.
About the job
Job summary
Defra is the UK government department responsible for safeguarding our natural environment, supporting our world-leading food and farming industry, and sustaining a thriving rural economy. Our broad remit means we play a major role in people\’s day-to-day life, from the food we eat, and the air we breathe, to the water we drink.
Digital, Data, Technology and Security (DDTS) is the trusted team for digital across the entire Defra Group.
We have around 1000 colleagues across DDTS and our ambition is to make it easier and faster than ever for people to interact with Defra. If you are ready to drive innovation and push boundaries, we want to hear from you. Join us and together we will create a great place for living, and a green and healthy future for all.
Find out more about DDTS:
Defra digital, data and technology blog
Defra Jobs
Job description
Architecture, Data, Information, and Innovation (ADII) is home to the Technology Innovation team. We drive business transformation across the Defra group through proactively identifying and exploiting disruptive information technologies by providing horizon scanning, exploration, and consultancy capabilities.
Examples of the team’s work over the last 12 months include the creation of working Proofs of Concept for AI Chatbots, Computer Vision for digitising physical media, AI Automation for Form Submissions, Internet Surveillance for illegal Trading and Virtual and Augmented Reality applications for field workers and training. We also create Research Papers on developing technologies like autonomous drones and Quantum Encryption.
We have an exciting opportunity for you to join us at Defra’s DDTS Technology Innovation teamto support this important work. This role is instrumental in ensuring that Defra’s business strategies, policies, and operations are informed by emerging digital technologies. As Technology Innovation Consultant, you will provide subject matter expertise on emerging technologies, support horizon scanning, consultancy engagements, and lead proof-of-concept and pilot initiatives. Extensive collaboration across Defra and the broader technology landscape is essential for delivering innovative projects in the evolving tech space.
Person specification
Responsibilities
• Continuously scan Defra’s business environment and technology market for disruptive trends that could transform operations.
• Develop thought leadership materials such as reports and explainer videos to promote strategic and policy-driven technology adoption.
• Lead the delivery of proof-of-concepts, pilots, and proof-of-value initiatives, securing executive sponsorship and reporting findings to business leaders.
• Work with strategy, policy, and technology architecture teams to shape business models and roadmaps that incorporate emerging technology trends.
• Engage with key technology suppliers and vendors at senior levels to explore partnership and innovation opportunities.
• Build strategic relationships with academia, innovation centres, and government-backed initiatives, driving collaborative IT-enabled innovation projects.
• Champion and lead the Defra Innovation Network, fostering knowledge exchange and ideation within the technology and innovation community.
• Support the continuous improvement of Defra’s Technology Innovation exploration processes and associated tools.
Skills & Experience
• Knowledge of emerging technologies, global market trends, and the IT landscape, with the ability to assess their business impact.
• Understanding of Defra’s strategic drivers, policies, and IT strategies, ensuring technology trends align with business needs.
• Ability to lead technology-enabled business transformation, from ideation to pilot implementation, delivering clear recommendations.
• Experience in IT consulting, specifically in emerging technology transformation, with the ability to create compelling business visions.
• Proven ability to build networks with senior business leaders, suppliers, and specialist communities, securing investment and sponsorship for innovation.
• Highly creative, with the ability to envision radical business opportunities enabled by technology and deliver persuasive consultancy narratives.
• Strong strategic thinking and judgement, navigating ambiguity while shaping compelling technology adoption strategies.
• Exceptional communication skills, translating complex technical concepts into clear business opportunities for stakeholders at all levels.
Selection process
The Civil Service marks each element of the selection process on a merit basis. You can visit thegov.uk websitefor further information on the Civil Service rating scale.
Ensure you have tailored your CV and Personal Statement to the \’responsibilities\’ and \’skills and experience\’ section of the job advert by providing examples on how you are suitable for the role using theSTAR method. Please ensure you demonstrate clearly, within your personal statement, how you meet these requirements, as the information you provide will form a key part when the panel is scoring your application.
For further information on STAR, you can check out ourHints and Tipsdocument.
Application process
As part of the application process, you will be assessed on yourExperienceand will be asked to complete:
A CV
A 750-word Personal Statement: \”Referring to the \’responsibilities\’ and \’skills and experience\’ sections of the job advert, please demonstrate how you are suitable for the role by providing relevant examples.\”
Further details around what this will entail are listed on the application form.
Sift
Sift will begin shortly after the advert closes.
Should there be a large number of applications, an initial sift will be conducted using your personal statement. Candidates who pass the initial sift may be progressed to a full sift, or progressed straight to assessment or interview.
Sift and Interview dates to be confirmed.
Interview
If successful at sift, you will be invited to an interview where you will be required to prepare and present a short presentation which will be assessed against the behaviour \’Communicating and Influencing\’ and the technical skills \’Architecture Communication\’ & \’Architecture for the Whole Context\’. Further information on this will be provided if successful at sift. You will also be assessed on the Behaviours and Technical skills listed below.
This is a specialised architecture role that blends elements of the Enterprise Architect and Technical Architect roles within the Government Digital Capability Framework. To find out more about them, please visit the websitehere.
Interviews will be held virtually on Microsoft Teams.
For further information onSuccess Profiles, you visit the links below andwatch our videos on DefraJobs.
Behaviours
Experience
Technical
Behaviours
We\’ll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:
Communicating and Influencing
Delivering at Pace
Technical skills
We\’ll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:
Architecture communication – Level: Practitioner
Architecture for the whole context – Level: practitioner
Commercial perspective – Level: practitioner
Community collaboration – Level: Practitioner
Digital Perspective – Level: Practitioner
Enterprise Architecture – Level: Practitioner
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Technology Innovation Consultant - DEFRA - G7 employer: Government Digital and Data
Contact Detail:
Government Digital and Data Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Technology Innovation Consultant - DEFRA - G7
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in emerging technologies relevant to Defra's mission. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the technology and innovation sectors, especially those who have experience working with government departments. Building these connections can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've driven technology-enabled business transformation in your previous roles. Highlighting your practical experience will demonstrate your capability to lead initiatives at Defra.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on Defra's current projects and initiatives by following their digital, data, and technology blog. This knowledge will help you tailor your discussions and show your genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Technology Innovation Consultant - DEFRA - G7
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to the responsibilities and skills outlined in the job description. Highlight relevant experiences that demonstrate your expertise in emerging technologies and IT consulting.
Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Your personal statement should be around 750 words and directly address how you meet the requirements listed in the job advert. Use the STAR method to provide clear examples of your past experiences and achievements related to the role.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since communication is key for this role, ensure your application reflects your ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear business opportunities. Use concise language and structure your statements logically.
Prepare for the Interview: If you progress to the interview stage, be ready to present a short presentation. Focus on the behaviours 'Communicating and Influencing' and the technical skills required. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Digital and Data
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description and responsibilities of a Technology Innovation Consultant at Defra. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and how emerging technologies are being applied within the organisation.
✨Prepare Your Presentation
Since you'll need to present during the interview, create a clear and engaging presentation that showcases your understanding of technology trends and their potential impact on Defra's operations. Practice delivering it confidently to ensure you can communicate your ideas effectively.
✨Use the STAR Method
When discussing your experience, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This will help you provide clear examples of how you've successfully led technology-enabled transformations in the past.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As communication is key for this role, be prepared to demonstrate your ability to translate complex technical concepts into business opportunities. Use simple language and relatable examples to ensure your points resonate with the interviewers.