As a Data & AI Technical Delivery Manager, you will lead complex, high-impact transformation programmes within UK Central Government. Operating at the heart of delivery, you will bring structure to complexity, aligning technical excellence with commercial discipline and public sector governance standards. This is a senior, client-facing role where you will own the end-to-end delivery of Data & AI initiatives - from demand planning and estimation through to governance, risk management and formal acceptance. You will be the controlling mind behind major engagements, ensuring delivery excellence while upholding GDS Service Standards and the Technology Code of Practice. As a recognised leader within engagements, you will provide clarity, direction and confidence - driving high-performing teams to deliver secure, scalable, future-ready Data & AI solutions that create measurable public value.
Responsibilities
* Lead end-to-end delivery of complex Data & AI programmes within Central Government
* Own the full project lifecycle - from shaping and estimation through to delivery and formal acceptance
* Manage demand planning, forecasting, budgeting and prioritisation of project work
* Define, lead and monitor delivery activities ensuring adherence to methodology, quality standards and architectural principles
* Minimise technical debt while maintaining delivery pace and integrity
* Act as the primary escalation point for clients on delivery matters
* Organise, review and assure effort estimates for bids and live engagements
* Prepare internal and external reporting that provides meaningful management information and drives informed decision-making
* Establish and lead robust governance frameworks, both internally and client-facing
* Identify, track and actively manage risks, ensuring value is protected and delays are minimised
* Manage senior stakeholders to ensure alignment between business objectives, technical delivery and user needs
* Lead and adapt Agile delivery ceremonies, tailoring approaches to client and programme needs
* Drive secure-by-design Data & AI solutions across cloud environments (Azure-led, with AWS/GCP awareness)
* Oversee AI/ML lifecycle delivery, including MLOps and operationalisation
* Own programme financial performance including forecasting, margin management and cost control
* Support bids and shape delivery approaches for strategic Data & AI opportunities
Qualifications
* Proven experience delivering complex Data & AI programmes within UK Central Government
* Strong understanding of GDS Service Standards and the Technology Code of Practice
* Demonstrated leadership of multi-disciplinary technical teams (data engineers, architects, AI/ML specialists)
* Deep experience in Agile delivery methodologies within regulated environments
* Strong commercial acumen, including financial forecasting and margin ownership
* Expertise in risk management, governance and structured reporting
* Experience delivering cloud-based data platforms (Azure preferred; AWS/GCP awareness beneficial)
* Knowledge of secure-by-design principles and compliance-led delivery
* Confidence operating as a senior client-facing authority and escalation point
* Ability to simplify complexity, align stakeholders and drive decisive action
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