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- Tasks: Lead digital transformation and enhance global collaboration for the FCDO.
- Company: Join the FCDO, a key player in UK government priorities and international relations.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to influence global affairs.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while driving innovation in a dynamic, evolving environment.
- Qualifications: Proven strategic thinker with experience in digital transformations and senior-level engagement.
- Other info: Manage a ÂŁ230m budget and lead a team of over 400 professionals.
The predicted salary is between 97500 - 162500 ÂŁ per year.
Chief Digital Information Officer – FCDO – SCS2
A salary of up to ÂŁ162,500 per annum is available depending on skills and experience.
Published on 10 July 2025. Deadline: 28 July 2025.
Location
East Kilbride, London
About the job
Job summary
Allen Lane is supporting the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in appointing a Chief Digital and Information Officer – a critical leadership role both domestically and internationally.
The FCDO plays a central role in delivering the Government’s priorities, fostering a secure and prosperous UK and world. It leverages global influence, collaborates with businesses, allies, and partners, and builds top-tier capabilities in crisis response, consular affairs, diplomacy, development, and intelligence.
This role comes at a pivotal moment for the Department, following the merger of FCO and DFID, as it embarks on an exciting digital transformation to advance its mission.
The successful candidate will lead the integration of advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, bolster international collaboration, and achieve outstanding results worldwide. You will be a key member of the senior leadership team, driving organizational change and ensuring agility in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
This is a rewarding opportunity to influence global affairs and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
As CDIO, you will oversee secure IT, digital, and data services for over 17,000 staff across 280 overseas missions and contribute to the Government’s digital agenda.
You will lead the \”FCDO 2030\” initiative to create a more effective, streamlined, and impactful department aligned with the Foreign Secretary’s vision of making the FCDO a world-leading digital foreign affairs ministry. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will manage an annual budget of £230m, with plans for significant growth, and oversee a professional team of over 400 staff across London, Milton Keynes, East Kilbride, and overseas offices.
Person specification
The role demands demonstrating the following essential criteria :
- Proven experience as a strategic thinker and technology leader, with a track record of delivering large-scale digital transformations and fostering relationships at senior levels within complex organizations.
- Strong leadership in setting strategic direction, managing large, dispersed teams through change, and delivering complex projects that generate value.
- Experience in delivering innovative, efficient solutions with technical expertise, commercial acumen, and secure IT services knowledge.
- Experience engaging at senior levels, including Board and Ministerial, with excellent communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships.
Applicants should provide evidence and examples demonstrating these criteria. While deep technical knowledge of foreign policy is not essential, an interest and aptitude for learning are expected.
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Chief Digital Information Officer - FCDO - SCS2 employer: Manchester Digital
Contact Detail:
Manchester Digital Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Digital Information Officer - FCDO - SCS2
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the digital transformation and government sectors. Attend relevant conferences or webinars where you can meet current or former FCDO employees, as they can provide insights into the organisational culture and expectations for the Chief Digital Information Officer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest trends in digital technology and government initiatives. Familiarise yourself with the FCDO's current projects and strategic goals, particularly the 'FCDO 2030' initiative, to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading large-scale digital transformations. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed change and delivered value in previous roles, especially in complex organisations.
✨Tip Number 4
Develop a clear vision for how you would approach the role of CDIO at the FCDO. Think about innovative solutions you could implement and how you would foster collaboration across teams, as this will show your strategic thinking and leadership capabilities.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Digital Information Officer - FCDO - SCS2
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take the time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Chief Digital Information Officer position. Familiarise yourself with the FCDO's mission and how digital transformation plays a role in achieving their goals.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience that aligns with the job description. Emphasise your strategic thinking, leadership skills, and any previous successes in digital transformation projects. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact in similar roles.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your interest in the role but also showcase your understanding of the FCDO's objectives. Discuss how your background and skills make you an ideal candidate for leading their digital initiatives, and include examples of your past achievements.
Provide Evidence of Criteria: In your application, ensure you provide clear evidence and examples that demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description. This could include specific projects you've led, relationships you've built at senior levels, and innovative solutions you've implemented.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Digital
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a Chief Digital Information Officer, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led digital transformations in the past, focusing on the impact these changes had on the organisation's goals.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
This role requires strong leadership skills. Be ready to discuss your experience managing large teams and driving change. Use specific examples to illustrate how you've motivated teams and navigated complex projects.
✨Communicate Effectively
Given the seniority of this position, excellent communication skills are essential. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing technical concepts with non-technical stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Interest in Foreign Policy
While deep technical knowledge of foreign policy isn't required, showing an interest in the FCDO's mission can set you apart. Research current global issues and be prepared to discuss how digital transformation can support the department's objectives.