Head of Digital & Operations — Strategic Transformation

Public Sector; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 62,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Start Network is seeking a strategic Head of Digital & Operations in London. You will lead the operational and digital systems, ensuring scalable, compliant, and user-centred support for programme teams, hubs, and network members.

As the senior digital sponsor, you will own the digital and data roadmap, embed cyber security controls, strengthen operational resilience, and drive cross-organisational transformation across the network.

Qualifications

• Essential Criteria: Proven experience leading large-scale digital and operational transformations in complex, multi-stakeholder organisations.
• Essential Criteria: Expertise in technology strategy development, cyber security, IT service management, and modern digital architecture.
• Essential Criteria: Demonstrated ability to build strong data governance, reporting, and insight capabilities.
• Essential Criteria: Experience designing multi-geography operational frameworks, policies, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Essential Criteria: Strong leadership track record in change management, stakeholder influence, and team coaching.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Lead the Digital and Operations function, oversee its budget, sit on the Senior Management Group, and advise the Senior Leadership Team and Board Committees.
• Digital Strategy & Governance: Own the technology, data, and digital strategy. Provide senior oversight of digital architecture, system integrations, AI/automation ethics, GDPR, and cyber security.
• Operations & Resilience: Evolve the organisation's operating model. Oversee frameworks for procurement, travel, security, facilities, and business continuity planning.
• Programme Operations: Oversee the operational support models for key funds and initiatives (Start Fund, Start Ready, anticipatory action). Provide senior decision support on complex issues including hosting, compliance, safeguarding, and donor requirements.
• Team Management: Line-manage, coach, and develop a high-performing team of specialists while fostering an inclusive, values-driven culture.
• Rota Responsibilities: Participate in a weekend and holiday rota for smooth programme delivery (Start Fund/Start Ready) and on-call travel/security support.

Job description

Start Network is seeking a strategic Head of Digital & Operations in London. You will lead the operational and digital systems, ensuring scalable, compliant, and user-centred support for programme teams, hubs, and network members.

As the senior digital sponsor, you will own the digital and data roadmap, embed cyber security controls, strengthen operational resilience, and drive cross-organisational transformation across the network.