The standard selection process for roles at GDS consists of:
-
a simple application screening process - We only ask for a CV and cover letter of up to 750 words. Important tip - please ensure that your cover letter includes how you meet the skills and experience listed in the person specification section above
-
a 60 minute video interview which will feature a presentation. Details of the presentation will be shared with invited candidates prior to the interview
Depending on how many applications we get, there might also be an extra stage before the video interview, for example a phone interview or a technical exercise.
In the event we receive a high volume of applications, we will conduct the initial sift against the lead criteria which is: have substantial experience owning and operating a complex digital portfolio within an agile environment, utilising agile methodologies and iterating quickly to ensure delivery outcomes are aligned to organisational priorities
In the Civil Service, we use Success Profiles to evaluate your skills and ability. This gives us the best possible chance of finding the right person for the job, increases performance and improves diversity and inclusivity. Well be assessing your technical abilities, skills, experience and behaviours that are relevant to this role.
For this role well be assessing you against the following Civil Service Behaviours:
-
changing and improving
-
leadership
-
seeing the bigger picture
-
communicating and influencing
Well also be assessing your experience and specialist technical skills against the following skills defined in the Government Digital and Data Capability Framework for the Head of Digital Portfolio role:
-
agile working
-
communicating analysis and insight
-
governance and assurance
-
planning
-
stakeholder relationship manager
-
strategic thinking
Want to know more about who Government Digital and Data are? Click Here
Recruitment Timeline
Open Recruitment Session - Wednesday 24th June 2026 12:00 - 13:00
Sift completion: Week Commencing 6th July 2026
Panel interviews: Week Commencing 13th July 2026
Candidates that do not pass the interview but have demonstrated an acceptable standard may be considered for similar roles at a lower grade.
A reserve list will be held for a period of 12 months, from which further appointments can be made.
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan and the Civil Service D&I Strategy.
Open Recruitment Session
To provide more information and context about the role, we are holding an open recruitment session on the 24th June 2026, from 12:00 - 13:00. There will be a presentation followed by a Q&A Session. If you would like to be invited to the session, please email [email protected]
Sponsorship
DSIT cannot offer Visa sponsorship to candidates through this campaign. DSIT holds a Visa sponsorship licence but this can only be used for certain roles and this campaign does not qualify.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
