Deputy Director, AI Frontier Exemplar Government Efficiency Accelerator - GDS - SCS1

Location

Bristol, London, Manchester

About the job

Job summary

This is one of the most exciting leadership roles in government right now. You’ll be at the heart of a bold mission to transform how the public sector works: using AI to unlock time, talent and better outcomes for citizens. 

The Government Efficiency Accelerator is a flagship programme within the new Government Digital Service (GDS), part of DSIT. It’s all about reimagining how core functions like HR, Finance and Policy operate, starting with rapid pilots and scaling what works. Think of it as a government-backed startup with a mandate to deliver real change, supported by the most senior levels of government. 

We’re looking for a strategic, creative and delivery-focused leader to take this programme to the next level. This work sits within the Public Sector AI Adoption Unit in GDS, which leads AI adoption efforts across the public sector 

Job description

As Deputy Director, you will be responsible for leading the Government Efficiency Accelerator programme, working closely with the Director of Public Sector AI Adoption and senior stakeholders across central government (including Cabinet Office, No.10, DSIT). Responsibilities include: 

• Set the vision and lead delivery of the Government Efficiency Accelerator across Whitehall.  
• Build a roadmap to scale AI adoption in enabling functions, aligned with the AI Opportunities Action Plan.  
• Identify high-impact use cases that deliver measurable productivity gains and cost savings.  
• Build and lead a multidisciplinary team to design, test and roll out AI-powered tools that simplify workflows and automate the boring stuff.  
• Partner with departments, academia and industry to trial and scale commercial AI solutions.  
• Champion a “build once, use many times” approach to maximise impact.  
• Be a visible leader for responsible AI—ensuring fairness, transparency and public trust.  
• Brief ministers and senior officials and shape the narrative on how AI can transform government.  

Person specification

What We’re Looking For 

You’re a changemaker. Someone who thrives in complexity, sees opportunity in ambiguity, and knows how to get things done. 

You’ll bring: 

• A track record of delivering complex programmes at pace across teams or departments.  
• Strong influencing skills and the ability to align senior stakeholders behind a shared vision.  
• Experience leading through change and building a culture of experimentation and learning.  
• The ability to build, inspire and lead multidisciplinary teams across digital, data and tech.  
• Strategic thinking and a sharp eye for spotting scalable opportunities.  
• A solid understanding of digital transformation and ideally some exposure to AI or automation. 
• A commitment to ethical, inclusive and responsible AI use. 
• A genuine passion for improving how government works.