We are running an information session where prospective applicants can find out more about the role. This will be hosted by Andrew Pattison, Chief Operating Officer and will take place on:

  • Tuesday 28th April, 14:00

The session will be an opportunity to hear more about the role, the team and wider directorate and the department. It will also be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about the application, and the interview and assessment process.

Please register your interest before 16:00 Monday 27th April by filling out this form and you will be sent an invitation.

Applications need to be submitted via the CS Jobs site

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO) is responsible for transforming how DCMS utilises technology, data, and digital services. This broad leadership role encompasses internal business transformation and professional oversight of standards across 45 public bodies within the DCMS group.

A central focus of this role involves navigating significant technical transitions scheduled for 2026, including:

  • Harnessing the benefits of DCMS services moving from Google to Microsoft
  • Preparing the department to join the NEO platform, a new HR and Finance system, as part of a Government shared services programme in the second half of 2026. This will involve working with four other departments and taking services from a shared service provider.

As the professional lead for the Digital, Data and Technology function, you will build and scale a team of approximately 60 professionals. You will be responsible for defining the digital capabilities for people, process, and technology required to unlock organisational benefits and execute a strategic roadmap that reflects the needs of the department and its public bodies.

We are seeking a credible, visible leader with a proven track record of guiding organisations through significant cultural change. Key responsibilities include:

  • Driving literacy in core DDaT competencies such as agile delivery, user-centered design, and data skills across the department.
  • Engaging with the cross-government CDIO community to ensure DCMS strategies align with the Central Data and Digital Office standards.
  • Building a resilient function with engaged, high performing staff and an effective supply chain that delivers great outcomes and minimises risks.

As Director, you will lead an innovative and diverse team of digital, data and technology professionals which will comprise of circa 60 staff. You will be the driving force behind our vision to be the strategic engine that transforms DCMS into a modern, agile, and digitally confident department. Our culture is defined by user-centricity and experimentation, where we leverage cross-disciplinary collaboration to deliver secure, innovative services.

The directorate is structured across three Deputy Director portfolios:

  • DDaT Programmes: MS365 & Transformation- leading the essential support that underpins our delivery work and the delivery of large-scale transition programmes.
  • Digital Delivery and Portfolio: delivering strategic business intelligence and user-centred solutions through mature product, data, and emerging technology capabilities including AI.
  • Chief Technology Officer: Technology, Cyber & Infosec Operations - providing the resilient infrastructure and robust cyber assurance that underpins all DCMS operations.

Beyond the core department, you will provide strategic leadership across the wider DCMS family, fostering the adoption of tech shared services across our public bodies. We are a regionally dispersed team, with 42% of our staff based in national hubs outside of London (primarily in Manchester) as we continue to grow our geographic footprint. We are committed to a supportive and inclusive environment where diverse perspectives build a high-performing DDaT workforce.

Location

17, Marble Street, Manchester, M2 3AW, United Kingdom

Job ID

14950