At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to design and test innovative solutions for public service challenges.
- Company: Join the UK government's Test, Learn and Grow team driving innovation in public services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to make a real social impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration across the UK.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of public service reform and create meaningful change in communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic thinking and stakeholder management, with a passion for social impact.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
Location: Belfast, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, Manchester, York
The Test, Learn and Grow (TLG) team is at the heart of the UK government’s initiative to drive innovation and reform in public service delivery. With the PSR Innovation Fund, our team collaborates with local authorities and government departments across the United Kingdom and with the Devolved Governments to design, test, and grow innovative solutions that enhance public service outcomes. By employing a "Test & Learn" approach, we focus on creating evidence-based improvements while relieving pressures on public services. Our work involves foundational programmes and place-based initiatives to accelerate mission delivery, support preventative measures, and foster a collaborative environment that encourages continuous improvement and innovation in public services.
As a product and strategy lead, you’ll manage the day-to-day running of a place-based project with public sector partners in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to prototype solutions to complex policy issues. You’ll lead the team with core responsibilities of stakeholder management, delivery planning, determining the right approaches for the team to take and supporting innovative ways of working to deliver the right outcomes. You’ll help the team work to timelines to deliver what’s been agreed with local partners and stay connected to related work streams across government and the wider public sector. This role is mapped to the Product Manager role in the Government Digital and Data framework. However, the products/solutions we are developing may not be digital. We’re looking for candidates who are confident navigating complex policy challenges and can identify strategic opportunities to leverage change. This role will require travel within the UK to work closely with local partners.
Main responsibilities:
- You’ll lead a multidisciplinary team to design, test and scale ‘products’ or ‘solutions’ to complex policy issues.
We Are Looking For Someone Who:
- Is confident applying evidence-based and strategic thinking to develop and grow products that support social impact.
- Will work effectively with stakeholders (in devolved, central and local government, VCS etc) to foster interest in the accelerator and TLG ways of working.
- Will apply agile ways of working to help the team build momentum and deliver the right outcomes.
You Will:
- Lead a multidisciplinary team with colleagues in the Devolved Administrations, Central and Local government to deliver solutions aligned with the scope agreed with local partners.
- Through test and learn cycles define, explain and iterate an evidence-based vision for solutions that are compelling to your team, stakeholders and end-users.
- Collaborate with team members to create prototypes to test assumptions or approaches.
- Identify assumptions and risks behind possible approaches and include these in your planning.
Senior Product and Strategy Lead - Cabinet Office - G7 in Manchester employer: Manchester Digital
At Manchester Digital, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to excel. As a Chief Software Engineering Leader, you will not only lead a talented team but also enjoy flexible working arrangements, competitive pension contributions, and generous annual leave that grows with your tenure, making it an ideal environment for personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Product and Strategy Lead - Cabinet Office - G7 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 Senior Product and Strategy Lead - Cabinet Office - G7 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.
