At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the digital and data strategy for the UK government, shaping public service delivery.
- Company: Join the Government Digital Service, a key player in the UK's digital transformation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and the chance to make a real impact on society.
- Other info: This role offers a unique opportunity to influence major digital reforms across government.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovation, improving services for millions and shaping the future of government.
- Qualifications: Strategic vision, delivery excellence, team leadership, and strong stakeholder engagement skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 117800 £ 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 in Nottingham employer: LinkedIn
The Government Digital Service (GDS) is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and mission-driven work, offering a unique opportunity to lead the digital transformation of public services in the UK. With a strong focus on employee empowerment, flexibility, and professional growth, GDS fosters a collaborative culture where strategic thinkers can thrive and make a meaningful impact on millions of lives. Located in vibrant cities like Bristol and Manchester, GDS provides a dynamic work environment that supports both personal and professional development while shaping the future of government services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director of Strategy in Nottingham
✨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 GDS's goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the digital government space. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with key stakeholders, which can provide insights into the challenges they face and how you can contribute to solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading cross-functional teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully driven change and influenced senior leaders in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the Deputy Director position.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in digital transformation and AI. Being knowledgeable about emerging technologies and their implications for public service delivery will demonstrate your strategic vision and readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director of Strategy in Nottingham
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 ability to deliver transformation programmes.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that outlines your strategic vision and how it aligns with the goals of the Government Digital Service. Emphasise your experience in building partnerships and leading teams in complex environments.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:In your application, focus on your ability to lead high-performing teams and drive change. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed cross-functional teams and influenced senior leaders.
How to prepare for a job interview at LinkedIn
✨Understand the Digital Agenda
Familiarise yourself with the current digital and AI strategies of the UK government. Be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with the Blueprint for a Modern Digital Government and how you can contribute to its evolution.
✨Showcase Your Delivery Excellence
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully delivered major transformation programmes. Highlight your ability to navigate complex political environments and demonstrate how you achieved results.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Mastery
Think about how you can build trust with senior leaders and Ministers. Be ready to share specific instances where you've influenced stakeholders and navigated competing priorities effectively.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership Skills
Discuss your experience in building inclusive, high-performing teams. Share your approach to coaching and talent development, and how you create a culture of empowerment and flexibility within your team.
