Deputy Director Of Performance

Description:

The Government Digital Service (GDS) is seeking an exceptional Deputy Director of Performance & Assurance to lead digital and data strategy at the heart of the UK government. This strategic leadership role will drive accountability, monitor progress against the Blueprint for Modern Digital Government, and deliver innovative assurance methods that transform public service delivery.

Sitting within the Strategy and Assurance Directorate, you will be responsible for spend control, service assessment, and performance management across Whitehall. You will lead teams that provide expert advice to departments, streamline assurance processes, and design digital tools to support oversight and decision-making.

Your role will involve close collaboration with senior Digital, Data & Technology (DDaT) leaders, Ministers, HM Treasury, and the wider GDS and DSIT teams, ensuring digital projects across government deliver high-quality, user-focused outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead spend control and service assessment operations to ensure delivery quality across government.

• Develop data-driven performance monitoring approaches to track progress against strategic digital goals.

• Transform assurance functions for faster, user-friendly departmental engagement.

• Oversee digital tool development for efficiency in spend controls.

• Manage cross-government advisory teams and maintain escalation processes.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior officials, Ministers, and DDaT leaders.

• Represent GDS at major government spending events (e.g., Spending Reviews).

Candidate Profile:

• Strategic vision with the ability to deliver in complex political environments.

• Proven record in large-scale digital transformation delivery.

• Inclusive leadership skills for managing high-performing, cross-functional teams.

• Experience engaging with Ministers or board-level leaders on complex digital matters.

• Strong stakeholder management skills with empathy and political acumen.

Why Join GDS?
GDS leads the UK government’s digital and data revolution, housing initiatives like the AI Incubator (I.AI) and the globally recognised GOV.UK platform. This role offers the chance to impact millions, shaping public service delivery in the 21st century.