We are running an information session where prospective applicants can find out more about the role. This will be hosted virtually by Louise Smith, Strategy Director and will take place at:
15:00 on Tuesday 17th November
The session will be an opportunity to hear more about the role, the team and wider directorate and the department.
It will also be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the application, and the interview and assessment process.
This will take place virtually, via Microsoft Teams.
Please note that the session will not be recorded.
The Strategy Unit sits at the centre of the Department and plays a critical role in supporting Ministers, the Permanent Secretary and senior leaders to make better strategic decisions.
We bring together expertise in strategy development, fiscal strategy, foresight, place, cross-cutting policy and strategic problem solving. Our role is to help the Department look ahead, focus on the right priorities and make effective choices about where to direct its effort and resources.
The Unit is evolving in response to the Department's expanded remit and changing strategic needs. We are building a modern strategy function that combines long-term thinking with practical delivery and works closely with policy, delivery, finance and analytical teams across the organisation.
Alongside delivering immediate priorities, the successful candidate will play a central role in defining how strategy is undertaken in the Department for years to come. This includes helping shape the structure, capability and culture of the newly configured Strategy Unit and establishing a successful partnership across the new two-Deputy Director leadership model.
This is a unique opportunity to influence decisions at the highest levels of government while helping build one of the most influential strategy functions in Whitehall.
Whilst exact portfolios are yet to be agreed across the two Strategy Unit Deputy Director roles, we would expect this role to include responsibilities spanning:
Fiscal strategy
- Lead development of the Department's overall fiscal strategy.
- Lead preparation for Spending Reviews and fiscal events, ensuring the department’s proposals are clear, evidenced and prioritised.
- Provide strategic engagement with HM Treasury, No.10 and others.
Shape departmental strategy
- Lead development and implementation of the Department's strategic framework.
- Support Ministers and senior leaders to translate long-term ambitions into clear priorities, outcomes.
Drive strategic prioritisation and cross-cutting policy and strategy
- Lead major cross-cutting priorities including areas like growth and social cohesion.
- Ensure strategic coherence across policy development and decision-making and drive informed choices between competing priorities and finite resources.
- Strategic oversight and effective use of levers such as legislation and regulation.
Build the future Strategy Unit
- Help design and embed the Strategy Unit's future operating model under the new two-Deputy Director structure.
- Develop capability, culture and ways of working across the Unit that promotes innovation, collaboration and high performance.
Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme
Company: Government Recruitment Service
Salary: £86,000 to £86,000 a year
Hours: Full-time
Location: London
Job type: Permanent
Posting date: 9 Nov 2026
Closing date: 23 Nov 2026
Deputy Director, Strategy Unit
About Disability Confident
Disability Confident is a government scheme. It encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with long term health conditions.
Deputy Director, Strategy Unit employer: Government Recruitment Service
The Ministry of Justice is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where finance professionals can thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working options, and a robust pension scheme, the MoJ fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to influence key financial strategies that impact the nation. Located nationally, this role provides the unique advantage of engaging with diverse stakeholders across the UK, making it a rewarding place for those seeking meaningful contributions to public service.
Contact Details:
Government Recruitment Service Recruitment Team
