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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 36000 - 60000 £ 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 London 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 London
✨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 demonstrate their ability to motivate and guide others.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. 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 London
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 us at StudySmarter!
Be Data-Driven: Since this role involves data transformation, make sure to include any relevant experience with data science and analytics. We love seeing candidates who can leverage data to drive decision-making and innovation.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can't wait to hear from you!
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 that you’re not just a leader, but also someone who understands the technical side of things.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how you’ve inspired teams in the past. Think of specific examples where you’ve led change or fostered collaboration. The interviewers will want to see how you can set a strategic vision and motivate a high-performing team.
✨Stakeholder Management is Key
Be ready to talk about your experience with stakeholder management. Highlight instances where you’ve built consensus among competing priorities or navigated complex organisational landscapes. This role requires exceptional skills in this area, so come prepared with relevant examples.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since you’ll be managing significant budgets, it’s crucial to showcase your financial planning skills. Discuss how you’ve maximised value from investments in the past and any experience you have in securing additional funding. This will demonstrate your ability to drive cost savings and efficiencies.
