How to Apply:
When you click "Apply Now" at the bottom of this page, you will be required to attach your anonymised CV for information, together with a 750 word supporting statement on the experience criteria below.
Timeline:
- Advert Closes for applications: 21st June 2026
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Shortlisting: w/c 29th June 2026
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Interviews: w/c 20th July 2026
We will try to meet the dates set out in the advert. There may be occasions when these dates change. You will be provided with sufficient notice of the confirmed dates.
Sift/Shortlist Criteria:
All applications are processed anonymously. You will be short-listed against the following criteria:
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Experience of providing leadership for AI and/or data capability in a complex organisation to set direction, make decisions, ensure delivery and influence strategy. Balancing governance decisions with strategic requirements (lead criteria)
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Experience in data quality and metadata management, including standards, monitoring and improvement.
- Experience of leading and developing multi-disciplinary teams to drive innovation and change to deliver organisational impact.
Please ensure that you cover all the above criteria in your 750 word supporting statement.
Interview Criteria:
Civil Service Behaviours (Grade 6 level):
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Leadership - assessed by the presentation
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Changing and Improving (lead criteria)
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Making Effective Decisions
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Seeing the Big Picture
See here for further information: Success Profiles - Civil Service Behaviours (publishing.service.gov.uk)
Process:
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Two stage interview - details below.
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You will be contacted to book a suitable slot if you are shortlisted.
- First stage of the interview process, the shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a virtual MS TEAMS fireside chat with Alex Bowen, Chief Digital and Technology Officer prior to the panel interview. This is an opportunity for candidates to gain a deeper understanding of UKHO and the role. The fireside chat does not form part of the selection assessment or influence the selection decision.
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Second stage interview will be a face to face interview at out Headquarters in Taunton. It will be with a panel of 3 people and will last approximately 60 minutes. You will be required to give a 10 minute presentation a part of this interview. More details will be given in the Invitation to Interview email.
Onboarding Checks:
In the event you are offered a role with us, you will be required to go through Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks which will include Employment and Right to Work Checks. You will also need to apply for SC (Security Clearance), but you may be able to start your role before gaining this. Please see our attached Candidate Pack for further details and Terms.
Please note, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship.
Residency Requirements:
SC non reserved
This is a Ministry of Defence non-reserved post and although open to UK, British Commonwealth and European Economic Area nationals, successful applicants will require a security clearance (SC) and therefore need to have resided in the UK for a minimum of 12 consecutive months within the last 5 years.
Eligibility
Due to the secure nature of our work, there may be eligibility restrictions if you hold dual nationality or are not a British Citizen. We will consider each application on a case-by-case basis. We will ask you in our application form to confirm your place of birth and details of any dual or previous nationalities.
Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.
