Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
HEAD OF DIGITAL PORTFOLIO
Reference number: 458119
Total Package: £69,500 + location allowance of £5,000 (London), £69,500 + location allowance of £1,750 (Milton Keynes), £69,500 (East Kilbride)
Contract: Full time, permanent
Location: London, East Kilbride or Milton Keynes
Hours: Full time; hybrid working (minimum 60% in the office)
Your role with us
The Digital Technology and Security (DTaS) directorate delivers the FCDO’s ambition to be the world’s most technologically integrated and innovative foreign ministry by harnessing digital, data, technology, IT security and information management to achieve diplomatic, development and consular aims while keeping our people and information safe.
Main purpose of the job
Provide strategic oversight of our digital, data and technology portfolio, leading a team of portfolio professionals and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and delivery excellence. Shape and maintain a robust governance framework to ensure effective prioritisation, resource allocation and risk management across a complex, high‑value portfolio of products, services and programmes. Work closely with senior stakeholders to maintain evidence‑based investment decisions, ensure benefits are clearly defined and the portfolio adapts to changing priorities.
Act as a key advisor to senior leadership, delivering clear, data‑driven insights and recommendations to inform decision‑making at the highest levels. Champion best practice in strategic portfolio management, support the development of business cases, and ensure reporting mechanisms track progress, manage interdependencies and deliver successful outcomes. Handle day‑to‑day responsibilities such as identifying, categorising and prioritising new demand for inclusion in service groups and the portfolio, establishing governance and reporting systems, coordinating reporting from service groups and analysing performance at portfolio level.
Who We’re Looking For
Well‑developed experience managing large‑scale, complex digital and technology projects, and using strategic portfolio management as a tool for organisational change. Proven knowledge of strategic risk management, agile planning cycles, problem solving and the ability to administer multiple interdependencies. Strong leadership to inspire cross‑functional teams, engaging, motivating and coaching on best practice processes.
* Ideally possess a Chartered Project Professional (ChPP), Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) or Management of Portfolios (MoP) certification, or demonstrate significant experience successfully managing complex programmes or portfolios.
* Proactive approach to work while focusing on continuous improvement of self and the service.
* Excellent communication skills for stakeholder engagement across a range of channels.
* Strong analytical skills to align investment proposals with ambitious transformation objectives.
Essential: British Citizen at the time of application and the requirement to obtain Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance.
Benefits: We value diversity and inclusion and actively encourage and welcome applications from all communities. Everyone receives support to develop skills and capabilities and benefits that help optimise life in and out of work, including a Civil Service pension.
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