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- Tasks: Lead the digital and AI strategy for the UK government, shaping public service delivery.
- Company: Join the Government Digital Service, driving innovation in the UK's digital landscape.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of digital transformation, influencing change that affects millions.
- Qualifications: Proven strategic vision, delivery excellence, and experience in team leadership required.
- Other info: This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of government services.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 117800 ÂŁ 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.
- Drive Delivery through Influence: 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.
- Champion System Reform: 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. Create a culture of empowerment, flexibility and impact. Adapt the team’s focus dynamically to the needs of the strategy.
We Are Looking for a Leader Who Brings:
- Strategic Vision & Pragmatism: Proven ability to think long-term while solving problems in complex, fast-moving political environments.
- Delivery Excellence: A strong track record of delivering major transformation programmes in digital, data or tech.
- Team Leadership: 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.
Why Join GDS?
GDS is a unique place where mission meets innovation. We are home to the AI Incubator (I.AI), the global benchmark GOV.UK platform, and stewards of the UK’s digital and data function. We set the tone for what modern public service should look like in the 21st century.
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.
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 Callum Randle on 020 8253 1800, or via email at DDStrategy@global-resourcing.com
Deputy Director of 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 of 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 digital government space. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with key stakeholders, as building relationships with senior leaders can significantly enhance your credibility and influence.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading cross-functional teams. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully driven change and transformation, as this role requires strong team leadership and the ability to adapt to dynamic needs.
✨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 delivery will position you as a forward-thinking candidate who can contribute to shaping the future.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director of Strategy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Deputy Director of Strategy position. Identify key responsibilities and required skills, ensuring you can demonstrate your experience in these areas.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in digital strategy, team leadership, and stakeholder engagement. Use specific examples that showcase your achievements in similar roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your strategic vision and pragmatism. Address how your background aligns with the goals of the Government Digital Service and express your enthusiasm for shaping public service delivery.
Highlight Leadership Experience: Emphasise your experience in leading cross-functional teams and driving transformation programmes. Provide examples of how you've built trust with senior leaders and influenced change in complex environments.
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.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully built relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your ability to convey complex concepts clearly and your experience in navigating competing priorities.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your approach to leading high-performing teams. Share specific instances where you've fostered a culture of empowerment and flexibility, and how you've adapted team focus to meet strategic needs.
✨Prepare for Ministerial Engagement Scenarios
Think about how you would engage with Ministers or equivalent board-level leaders. Prepare to articulate your understanding of the political landscape and how you would effectively communicate digital transformation initiatives to non-technical audiences.
