Head of Capability and Talent

Government Recruitment Service; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent UK government department is seeking a Head of Capability and Talent to shape the future of its digital workforce. The role involves leading talent strategies, managing complex projects, and driving the implementation of a comprehensive People Strategy. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills, with a proven track record in strategic talent management. This position offers an opportunity to make a significant impact within the UK Civil Service.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in managing complex projects.
• Strong ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels.
• Expertise in developing talent strategies.

Responsibilities

• Lead implementation of the Digital's People Strategy.
• Manage development projects for talent pipeline.
• Provide leadership to a multidisciplinary team.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Job description

Are you ready to shape the future of digital talent in one of the UK’s largest government departments?

Do you have the vision and drive to lead capability and talent strategies that make a real impact?

If so, this might be the role for you.

The Capability and Spaces Team plays a crucial role in attracting, developing, and retaining highly skilled individuals. We foster an inclusive and supportive culture through professional communities and exceptional in-hub working environments, enabling everyone to thrive.

As the Head of Capability and Talent within our Capability and Talent Team, you will be instrumental in supporting DWP Digital's people strategy. Your role will ensure we attract, build, and retain the right talent for both the present and the future.

The Capability and Talent Team plays a crucial role in delivering our strategic priorities and this future-focused role involves aligning Digital Capability priorities with broader Departmental Strategies. We are looking for someone who is passionate about delivery and comfortable managing complex projects.

The role requires excellent stakeholder management skills, strong project management abilities, and relevant experience. You will work across our business area, the wider DWP Department, and across Government to ensure alignment and coherence.

As a pivotal leadership role within DWP Digital Group and the wider Civil Service, the Head of Capability and Talent will drive the strategic development of digital talent and capability across the organisation. You will lead a multi-disciplinary team and work collaboratively with senior stakeholders to shape the future of the DWP Digital workforce.

Strategic Leadership and Delivery

• Lead the implementation of Digital’s People Strategy, ensuring alignment with broader departmental and government-wide priorities.
• Own and deliver the Digital Academy, encompassing core learning offers, induction programmes, apprenticeships, industrial placements, Fast Stream, internships, and other talent development initiatives to build a sustainable talent pipeline.
• Provide strategic leadership on capability and talent projects focused on development, succession planning, retention, career support, and outreach.

Capability and Talent Management

• Manage key capability products including the Job Role Catalogue, Careers Toolbox, Career Pathways, and professional memberships.
• Oversee the Digital Learning and Development budget, ensuring strategic alignment, value for money, and measurable return on investment.
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders across DWP Digital, the wider department, and government, acting as the primary capability and talent liaison.

Team Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement

• Provide exceptional leadership to a dynamic team, supporting delivery across a wide range of planned and ad-hoc capability and talent activities.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with senior leaders to understand and respond to capability and talent needs with tailored, strategic advice.
• Engage confidently with stakeholders across the Civil Service, influencing and communicating complex information clearly and persuasively.

Supplier and Performance Oversight

• Oversee the performance of external suppliers, ensuring services meet the evolving needs of Digital and deliver high-quality outcomes.