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- Tasks: Lead a team to transform research and data services in the UK justice system.
- Company: Ministry of Justice, driving innovation and efficiency in public service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in modernising the justice system with cutting-edge data strategies.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in data science and transformation, with strong stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Join an information session on 12 February 2026 to learn more about the role.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
This is a Nationally based role. The Director of Science, Research & Development and Data Transformation will report to the Chief Digital and Information Officer. In this role, you will ensure that our research, data, and innovation strategies support the department’s strategic objectives, enhance evidence-based decision-making, drive operational efficiency, and enable a transformation that modernises the foundations of the UK justice system—making it more agile, sustainable, and impactful.
Key Responsibilities
- You will lead and inspire a high-performing team of research, data, and innovation specialists, creating a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
- By setting a clear vision aligned with MoJ's transformation strategy, you will empower your team to deliver evidence-based insights and innovative solutions that challenge the status quo.
- As part of the senior leadership team, you will help shape strategic direction and foster a shared sense of purpose across the Service Transformation Group.
- You will lead the transformation of MoJ's research and data services by embracing emerging technologies, modern delivery methods, and flexible working trends.
- Alongside managing the business-as-usual portfolio, you will drive major change through programmes such as the Innovation Fund and Data Improvement Programme—scaling up R&D, strengthening data governance, and embedding science-led approaches across the department.
- You will manage significant budgets, ensuring investment delivers maximum value while driving cost savings and efficiencies.
- Where needed, you will secure additional funding by clearly demonstrating return on investment and broader strategic benefits.
- Working closely with commercial colleagues, you will oversee supplier performance and risk and shape the future commercial strategy for research and data services through strong, forward-looking relationships with current and prospective partners.
- You will need exceptional stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build consensus across competing priorities and navigate complex organisational landscapes.
- As a senior science and data leader, you will provide expert input and strategic guidance to a wide range of stakeholders—including ministers, agency CEOs, and senior officials—ensuring research and data decisions are well-informed, aligned, and impactful.
The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:
- Inspiring and credible leadership, with the ability to set a strategic vision for the new MoJ Science function and a proven track record of leading change across multiple teams.
- Experience in scaling up new functions - including establishing engagement strategies, workforce and financial planning.
- Deep expertise in data science and transformation, with advanced knowledge of research methodologies, analytics, and the application of emerging technologies.
- Proven ability to work as part of a multifunctional Senior Leadership Team, ensuring alignment and a unified voice across diverse functional priorities.
Information Session
For those interested in finding out more about the role, we encourage applicants to attend the information session on 12 February 2026, 3pm. Mark Thompson and an HR Lead will be present to discuss the position in more depth, as well as provide information about what you can expect while working in the Ministry of Justice. The session will also give you the chance to ask any questions you may have before applying to the role.
Director for Science, Research & Development and Data Transformation - Ministry of Justice - SCS2 in Glasgow employer: Manchester Digital
Contact Detail:
Manchester Digital Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director for Science, Research & Development and Data Transformation - Ministry of Justice - SCS2 in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Ministry of Justice on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help you stand out when applying.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in data transformation and innovation in the justice sector. We want to see that you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about how to drive change.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've inspired teams or led successful projects. We love to see candidates who can motivate others and create a culture of collaboration.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for innovative thinkers who can help us transform the justice system.
We think you need these skills to ace Director for Science, Research & Development and Data Transformation - Ministry of Justice - SCS2 in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Director role. Highlight your experience in leading teams and driving transformation, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see how you've inspired and led teams in the past. Share examples that demonstrate your ability to set a strategic vision and manage change effectively. This is key for the role!
Be Data-Driven: Since this role is all about science and data transformation, make sure to include any relevant experience with data science methodologies and emerging technologies. We love seeing how you've used data to drive decisions and improvements.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Digital
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and technologies in data science and research methodologies. Brush up on how these can be applied to enhance decision-making within the justice system. This will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in leading teams and driving change. Think about specific instances where you’ve inspired a team or successfully implemented a new strategy. This is crucial for a role that requires inspiring leadership and collaboration.
✨Understand the Ministry's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the Ministry of Justice’s strategic objectives and how the role aligns with them. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their transformation strategy and what innovative solutions you might bring to the table.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Prepare to discuss your approach to stakeholder management. Think about how you’ve built consensus in previous roles and how you would navigate complex organisational landscapes. This is key for a position that involves working with ministers and senior officials.
