This is a significant leadership role; the successful candidate will be part of The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) Executive Team, a Board member, and Network Champion within Dstl. You will be responsible for providing enabling platforms and capabilities to deliver high-impact Science and Technology for UK Defence and Security. The role involves managing a complex estate in a high-hazard environment.
The Chief Operating Officer provides assurance to Dstl's Chief Executive, who is accountable to Parliament as the Accounting Officer. You will ensure sound governance, risk management, and internal controls. Leading the Operations Executive Area, with a budget of approximately £220M and 700 FTE (expected to grow), you will oversee a strategic operations management team to deliver Dstl's vision.
Key responsibilities include:
1. Maintaining estate standards, including facilities management contracts.
2. Delivering capital programmes aligned with MOD's planning cycle.
3. Developing a 10-year infrastructure plan aligned with Dstl Strategy and addressing infrastructure aging and future needs.
4. Transforming digital services and managing IT contracts.
5. Ensuring a safe, secure, sustainable, and resilient working environment.
6. Providing risk management and business support services.
7. Taking safety responsibilities, demonstrating health & safety behaviors.
8. Fostering an inclusive environment with open communication and psychological safety.
Applicants should submit:
* A CV (max 2 pages) detailing career history, responsibilities, achievements, and explanations for any gaps in the last two years.
* A Personal Statement (max 2 pages) demonstrating personal skills, qualities, and experience relevant to the role.
Artificial Intelligence can support applications but must be used truthfully and accurately. Plagiarism or AI-generated content presented as personal experience may lead to application withdrawal or disciplinary action. External candidates will undergo a six-month probation period.
For further details, refer to the candidate pack or contact People-CivHR-SCSCandidateSupport@mod.gov.uk for accessibility needs. Feedback is provided only after interviews or assessments.
The role has a minimum assignment duration of 3 years, subject to personal circumstances and business needs. Acceptance of the role implies agreement to this duration.
Security clearance of developed vetting is required. Candidates must meet baseline personnel security checks.
Essential skills and experience include:
* Strong leadership in senior roles, motivating diverse teams, managing pace and conflicting priorities.
* Influencing at senior levels through excellent communication and relationship-building.
* Strategic thinking, analytical skills, and fostering innovation and risk management.
* Developing strategic plans using data, making informed decisions amidst ambiguity.
* Understanding safety, security, and regulatory practices within operations environments.
* Sector experience in Facilities, Estates, Infrastructure Management, and familiarity with IT environments.
Salary: £100,000 plus £28,970 pension contribution. Benefits include tailored learning, flexible working, inclusion initiatives, and a Civil Service pension with 28.97% employer contribution.
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