At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team driving digital transformation and data innovation in government.
- Company: Join the Government Digital Service, shaping the future of digital government.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities to influence national policy and strategy.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of AI and data initiatives that improve public services.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in analytics, economics, or data science with a passion for innovation.
The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.
The Government Digital Service (GDS) is the digital centre of government. We are responsible for setting, leading and delivering the vision for a modern digital government. Our priorities are to drive a modern digital government by:
- joining up public sector services
- harnessing the power of AI for the public good
- strengthening and extending our digital and data public infrastructure
- elevating leadership and investing in talent
- funding for outcomes and procuring for growth and innovation
- committing to transparency and driving accountability
We are home to the Incubator for Artificial Intelligence (I.AI), the world-leading GOV.UK and at the forefront of coordinating the UK's geospatial strategy and activity. We lead the Government Digital and Data function and champion the work of digital teams across government. We're part of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and employ more than 1,000 people all over the UK, with hubs in Manchester, London and Bristol.
The Government Digital Service is where talent translates into impact. From your first day, you'll be working with some of the world's most highly-skilled digital professionals, all contributing their knowledge to make change on a national scale. Join us for rewarding work that makes a difference across the UK. You'll solve some of the nation's highest-priority digital challenges, helping millions of people access services they need.
As Deputy Director, you'll lead the Government Digital Service's IDEA Unit – a high-performing, cross-disciplinary analytical capability at the heart of government's digital and data reform agenda. You'll provide strategic leadership for a team of analysts, economists, data scientists and researchers who deliver the insight, evaluation and evidence base behind some of the UK Government's most ambitious programmes, including One Login, the National Data Library, AI adoption, service transformation and system reform. You'll also build internal automation and AI solutions that help the organisation deliver.
This is a system leadership role. You'll champion the use of data and evidence across GDS and government, making sure decision-makers have the insight and confidence to invest in transformative programmes that deliver better services and outcomes for citizens.
As Deputy Director, you'll:
- provide collective leadership as part of GDS's Senior Leadership Team, shaping strategy and direction and making sure IDEA's work supports organisational priorities and government reform goals
- lead and inspire the IDEA Unit, creating an inclusive, high-performing culture across a multidisciplinary team of economists, analysts, researchers and data scientists
- set the strategic vision for analysis and evidence in GDS, making sure outputs are high quality, timely and influential with senior decision-makers across Whitehall
- oversee economic analysis and evaluation of major programmes, including One Login, the National Data Library and AI adoption, ensuring value for money, reduced risk and strong funding cases
- champion data science, automation and AI solutions that drive efficiency, productivity and innovation across GDS operations and government services
- ensure robust data infrastructure and governance, including pipelines, dashboards and performance frameworks that underpin strategic decision-making
- act as Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) for major analytical programmes, such as the Digital Dashboard, the Data and Analytics Strategy or cross-government workforce insights
- represent and connect the system, building partnerships with senior leaders in government, academia and industry and shaping thought leadership in digital, data and AI
- develop talent and capability, building a sustainable pipeline of analytical leaders and embedding professional standards across the 4 analytical professions
We're interested in people who:
- have proven system leadership across multiple analytical disciplines, overseeing and enabling work spanning economics, data analytics and AI or data engineering, and making sure each discipline is used to maximum effect in large, complex programmes
- bring strategic vision and thought leadership, with the ability to set direction, champion innovation and act as an authoritative voice on the role of data, economics and AI in transforming government services and delivery
- are inspiring people leaders, with a track record of leading diverse, high-performing teams across disciplines, creating inclusive and collaborative cultures and investing in professional development and future talent pipelines
- have delivered impactful analytical programmes at scale, leading analysis, modelling or evaluation that has informed senior decision-making, funding and strategy in a complex policy or operational delivery context
- communicate and influence with impact, explaining complex analytical and technical insights to Ministers, senior officials and non-technical audiences, shaping debate and securing buy-in at the highest levels
- have credibility in at least one analytical profession, or equivalent applied experience, with the confidence and authority to lead, inspire and challenge across other disciplines such as economics, data science and AI engineering
Deputy Director – Insights, Data Science, Economics and Analysis - Government Digital Service - SCS1 in Manchester employer: Manchester Digital
Join a dynamic SaaS company in Wigan as a Lead Software Engineer, where you'll thrive in a collaborative and innovative work culture that values your expertise and contributions. With competitive compensation of up to £80k plus benefits like a 5% matched pension, share options, and private healthcare, you’ll have the resources to grow both personally and professionally while enjoying the flexibility of hybrid working. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of system design and implementation in a supportive environment that encourages modern engineering practices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director – Insights, Data Science, Economics and Analysis - Government Digital Service - SCS1 in Manchester
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Manchester Digital, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Manchester Digital and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director – Insights, Data Science, Economics and Analysis - Government Digital Service - SCS1 in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Manchester Digital and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Digital
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Manchester Digital, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Manchester Digital.
