Deputy Director AI Integration - DSIT - SCS1

Location

Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Darlington, Edinburgh, London and Salford.
This role can be based in any of our DSIT locations, with regaulr travel expected in Bristol, London and Salford.

About the job

Job summary

We’re seeking an impactful, innovative and visionary leader to take on the role of Deputy Director for AI Integration at DSIT.

This is a critical, high-profile role at the heart of DSIT's transformation plan, where you will help shape our journey to becoming an AI-first organisation. You’ll be part of a dynamic senior leadership team, responsible for designing, delivering and coordinating AI integration across the full spectrum of our departmental work.

We are looking for someone with a track record in leading digital and AI transformation in complex organisations. You’ll bring expertise, curiosity, and the drive to bring people together around an ambitious vision. You will be collaborating across functions and departments and with key stakeholders—including integrated corporate services and the government digital service—to drive cross-government AI adoption and position DSIT as an exemplar in the use of AI.

You will lead the development and implementation of our strategic approach to AI, oversee pilot projects and use cases, and ensure responsible, secure and effective use of AI technologies. Your leadership will be instrumental in building adaptability into our processes, scaling what works, and evaluating the impact of AI on operational efficiency and strategic outcomes.

As DSIT continues to evolve, you will play a vital role in shaping our culture and internal brand—helping us build an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. If you are passionate about innovation, have the skills and experience to deliver transformation at scale, and want to help define the future of government, we encourage you to apply. Join us and help write the story of AI in the UK government!

Job description

Key Responsibilities 

Lead the development and implementation of DSIT’s strategic approach to AI integration, ensuring alignment with departmental priorities across the SR25 period. 

Identify, design and oversee pilot projects and use cases demonstrating the practical application and value of AI across DSIT operations and functions, scaling what works across the department and more widely. 

Collaborate with the policy profession to position DSIT as a Government Economic and Analytical (GEA) exemplar in the use of AI. 

Develop and deliver an approach to tool selection, procurement and use across DSIT at the enterprise level that is consistent, safe and replicable.  

Oversee the development of data management practices that enable responsible, secure and effective use of AI technologies. 

Lead benefits analysis to evaluate the impact of AI integration on operational efficiency, service delivery and strategic outcomes. 

Person specification

Person Specification 

We are looking for a visionary and technically astute leader who can shape and deliver AI integration across a complex organisation. You will be confident in navigating emerging technologies, influencing senior stakeholders, and delivering transformation at scale.  

Essential Criteria 

Proven experience in leading AI or digital transformation initiatives, in large and complex organisations. 
Strong understanding of current AI policy, regulation, ethical frameworks, and public sector innovation approaches, with proven experience applying them in workforce, HR, or organisational transformation contexts.
Strong understanding of technology changes, data governance, and ethical considerations and experience of applying them to live delivery environments.
Demonstrable ability to deliver complex programs and change in a public sector or similar regulated environments.
Excellent stakeholder engagement and leadership skills and a proven ability to deliver user-focused and people-centric initiatives.

 Desirable Criteria 

Experience working in or with central government departments.
Relevant qualifications in data science, AI, or digital leadership.

Qualifications

Experience working in or with central government departments.
Relevant qualifications in data science, AI, or digital leadership.

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

Seeing the Big Picture
Leadership
Communicating and Influencing
Changing and Improving
Working Together