At Manchester Digital, we regularly shine a light on our members to understand more about their roles and their work within Greater Manchester’s digital and technology community. This week, we’re speaking with Ashleigh Alexander, a Resourcing Specialist at Government Digital and Data, to learn more about her work supporting government agencies to recruit diverse digital talent across Manchester.
Can you begin by telling us a little about yourself and your role?
I’m Ashleigh Alexander, the Senior Partnerships & Brand Officer for Government Digital and Data. I’m passionate about attracting and retaining talent, bringing awareness to the opportunities within Government. By working with partners like Manchester Digital, I’m able to showcase Civil Service Digital and Data careers. One of my main goals is to make our recruitment more accessible and immerse candidates in the opportunities and benefits we have to offer, all contained within our newly digitised candidate pack, check it out!
What does Government Digital and Data do, and how does your role support government services?
Government Digital and Data is the UK Civil Service’s digital and data profession, led by the Government Digital Service (GDS) within the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). Its mission is to transform public services through technology, data, and innovation, making them simpler, faster, and more accessible for millions of people. This is guided by the blueprint for a modern digital government, which sets out a long-term vision for digital public services, a six-point plan for reform, and the role of GDS as the digital centre of government driving this change. This includes everything from designing user-friendly digital platforms to improving data standards and cybersecurity across government.
In my role as Senior Partnerships & Brand Officer, I focus on building regional talent pathways and partnerships, with Manchester Digital I'm able to reach and engage with diverse talent. I support departments across Government to attract and retain talented individuals, reaching broader pools of talent and showcasing the exciting roles available within the profession.
What do you look for when recruiting tech candidates into Government Digital and Data?
Whether you’re starting your digital or data career, considering a change, or looking to progress within the public sector, there’s a place for you in this vibrant and inclusive community. You will be joining professionals dedicated to creating digital services that truly make a difference to people’s lives.
We recruit across a wide range of roles, including; software development, data analysts, user-centred design and more by using the Government Digital and Data Capability Framework.
Key qualities include:
- Technical skills aligned to the role (e.g., coding skills, data analysis, UX design).
- Problem-solving and adaptability, as our work often involves complex challenges.
- Commitment to public service values, such as integrity and inclusivity.
- Collaboration and communication skills, as we work in multidisciplinary teams.
We also value potential and transferable skills, so candidates from non-traditional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. As long as you meet 70% of the criteria we’d definitely recommend applying.
How does Government Digital and Data support candidates with accessibility needs, and what steps do you take to encourage applications from diverse candidates?
Accessibility and inclusion are central to our recruitment approach. We comply with the Public Sector Accessibility Regulations and the Equality Act 2010, ensuring our digital services and recruitment platforms meet WCAG 2.1 standards. Practical measures include:
- Providing reasonable adjustments during the application and interview process.
- Offering accessible candidate packs and guidance in multiple formats.
- Running internship and outreach programmes for underrepresented groups, such as care leavers and ethnic minority candidates.
- Active DEI networks (Women in Digital, LGBT+, BAME groups) and mentoring schemes to support career progression.
Our goal is to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. As well as Manchester Digital, we’re working with DEI partnerships; i.e. Women in Tech, Diversity in Tech and Ex-Military Careers.
What advice would you give candidates applying through the Civil Service recruitment process?
Applying for a role within the Civil Service can seem a little daunting, however if you follow my key tips below I’m sure that’ll be a great help!:
- Understand Success Profiles: Civil Service recruitment assesses behaviours, strengths, experience, and technical skills.
- Tailor your application: Use the job description and person specification as your guide.
- Use either the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or CAR method (Challenge, Action, Result) for behaviour-based questions.
- Prepare for online tests and interviews: These may include technical assessments or situational judgement tests.
- Show alignment with Civil Service values: Integrity, honesty, objectivity, and impartiality.
With the launch of the new Government Digital and Data Hub, candidates now have a dedicated space to explore learning pathways, career routes and practical guidance tailored to digital and data roles across government. Alongside this, our candidate pack provides detailed insights to help you understand what we’re looking for and how to prepare effectively.
Finally, why should someone consider a career within Government Digital and Data?
Because it’s one of the most future-proof career decisions you can make in today’s digital, data, and AI-driven world. Every sector from healthcare and finance to entertainment and government relies on technology and data insights to innovate and stay competitive.
Joining us puts you at the centre of solving complex problems and creating solutions that impact millions of lives. Your work will shape public services, making them smarter, fairer and more accessible.
A career in Government Digital and Data is built to grow with you. From day one, you’ll have access to continuous learning opportunities in cutting edge areas like cloud computing, machine learning and cybersecurity, ensuring your skills stay ahead of the curve.
Every project you take on has a real impact improving lives across the UK and shaping the way public services work for everyone. It’s not just about technology; it’s about creativity and innovation. You’ll uncover patterns, predict trends and enable smarter decisions that define the future. This is your chance to combine purpose with progress and make a difference that truly matters.
You’ll get more than just a job, you’ll get a career built to last. With job security in one of the most future-proof sectors, you can plan with confidence. Enjoy competitive salaries and clear progression, rewarding you for the impact you make. And most importantly, you’ll gain experience and skills that keep you ahead in a world driven by technology.
This isn’t just work, it’s an opportunity to grow, innovate and shape the future.
Why not drop us a follow on LinkedIn? You can also connect with me to get first sight of exciting roles and updates!
Thank you Ashleigh!
To find out more about Government Digital & Data careers, click here.
