Head of Digital and Technology in Northampton

Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service and the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (OPFCC)

Salary: £87,993 - £94,149

Location: Northamptonshire

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Lead Digital Transformation Across Northamptonshire's Emergency Services

We are seeking an exceptional and visionary Head of Digital and Technology to lead the strategic development, delivery and continuous improvement of technology services across Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service, and the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (OPFCC). This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of public safety through innovation, digital transformation and technology leadership. Working at the heart of our collaboration agenda, you will ensure that technology enables our organisations to deliver outstanding services to communities, improve operational effectiveness and support our people to perform at their best.

Purpose of the Job

The Head of Digital and Technology will provide strategic leadership, direction and governance for all digital, technology, information systems and ICT services across the Police, Fire and OPFCC landscape. You will be responsible for developing and delivering a technology strategy that aligns with organisational priorities, supports operational excellence and drives innovation. Through strong leadership and partnership working, you will ensure secure, resilient and cost-effective digital services that enable frontline and corporate teams to meet current and future demands. As a member of the senior leadership team, you will provide expert advice on digital transformation, technology investment, cyber security, data infrastructure and emerging technologies that can enhance service delivery and public outcomes.

About the Role

As Head of Digital and Technology, you will:

• Lead the strategic direction for digital and technology services across Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service and OPFCC.
• Develop and implement a forward-thinking digital and technology roadmap that supports organisational priorities and transformation ambitions.
• Ensure the effective delivery, maintenance and continuous improvement of critical technology infrastructure, systems and services.
• Lead major programmes of digital transformation, innovation and technology change.
• Drive cyber security, information assurance and business continuity arrangements to protect organisational assets and operational services.
• Manage significant technology budgets, contracts, suppliers and strategic partnerships to ensure value for money and service excellence.
• Build and lead a high-performing technology function, creating a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Work closely with executive leaders, operational commanders and key stakeholders to identify technology opportunities and address organisational challenges.
• Promote the effective use of data, digital solutions and emerging technologies to support evidence-based decision-making and improved service outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, governance frameworks and industry best practice.

About You

We are looking for an inspirational technology leader who combines strategic vision with operational excellence. You will bring:

Essential Experience and Knowledge

• Significant senior leadership experience within digital, ICT, technology or transformation environments.
• A proven track record of delivering large-scale digital transformation and technology programmes.
• Experience of developing and implementing technology strategies aligned to organisational objectives.
• Strong understanding of enterprise architecture, infrastructure, cloud services, cyber security and digital innovation.
• Experience of managing complex budgets, contracts and supplier relationships.
• Demonstrable ability to lead, inspire and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at Executive and Board level.
• Strong commercial awareness and evidence of delivering value for money and service improvement.
• Experience of managing risk, governance and regulatory compliance within a complex organisation.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic thinker with a forward-looking approach to technology and innovation.
• Collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
• Highly credible communicator with excellent presentation and influencing skills.
• Solutions-focused and resilient in a rapidly changing environment.
• Passionate about public service and delivering better outcomes for communities.

Qualifications

• Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional experience in a relevant discipline.
• Relevant professional technology, digital, project management or leadership qualifications are desirable.

Why Join Us?

This is your opportunity to make a real difference to the safety and wellbeing of communities across Northamptonshire. In return, we offer:

• A unique and influential executive leadership role.
• The opportunity to shape the future of technology across Police, Fire and OPFCC services.
• Meaningful work that directly supports frontline public safety services.
• A collaborative and ambitious leadership environment.
• Excellent opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Competitive pension scheme.
• Flexible and agile working arrangements where operationally appropriate.
• Access to employee wellbeing and support programmes.

Most importantly, you will help deliver technology solutions that enable our emergency services to protect people, fight crime, save lives and build safer communities.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit: Click on the 'Apply on website' button below to submit your application. Applications should clearly demonstrate your experience of leading technology teams, deliver digital transformation and influence strategic organisational change.

Closing Date: 12th August 2026

Interview Date: 25th August 2026

Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue Service and the Office of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner are committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

Join us and lead the digital future of public safety in Northamptonshire.