Location: East Midlands (hybrid working available)
Reports to: Director of Spatial Development
Lead the digital future of the East Midlands
We are seeking an exceptional and forward-thinking Strategic Digital Connectivity Lead to shape and deliver the East Midlands’ digital infrastructure ambitions.
This is a high-profile leadership role at the forefront of regional transformation—driving connectivity, enabling inclusive growth, and positioning the East Midlands as a digitally connected, AI-enabled region.
About the role
As Strategic Digital Connectivity Lead, you will provide strategic leadership across a portfolio of major digital infrastructure programmes.
Working closely with the Mayor, senior leaders, local authorities, government departments and industry partners, you will define and deliver a long-term vision for digital connectivity—ensuring residents, businesses and communities benefit from world-class digital infrastructure.
You will operate in a complex and politically sensitive environment, influencing national policy, securing investment, and leading the delivery of high-value programmes that support economic growth, productivity and digital inclusion.
Key responsibilities
* Lead the development and delivery of a regional Digital Infrastructure Strategy
* Champion a bold vision for a digitally connected, AI-enabled East Midlands
* Drive strategic planning and delivery of major digital connectivity programmes
* Provide expert advice to senior officers, elected members and partners
* Represent the region at a national level, influencing policy and funding priorities
* Work collaboratively with local authorities to align and scale digital initiatives
* Embed digital connectivity across key agendas including transport, inclusion, innovation and skills
* Build and manage strong partnerships with government, suppliers, and regional stakeholders
* Lead programme governance, ensuring robust financial management, compliance and value for money
* Secure and manage funding through grant bids, business cases and investment propositions
* Identify and manage risks, ensuring successful programme delivery and outcomes
About you
We’re looking for a strategic leader with deep expertise in digital connectivity and a strong track record of delivering complex programmes.
You will bring:
* Significant experience delivering digital connectivity or telecoms infrastructure programmes at a strategic level
* Strong understanding of the telecoms sector (fixed, mobile, wireless) and its role in regional development
* Proven ability to lead delivery in complex, multi-stakeholder environments
* Experience managing high-value programmes, budgets, and funding streams
* Strong partnership skills, with the ability to influence across public, private and third sectors
* Experience securing funding through grants, business cases or investment propositions
* Excellent communication skills, able to translate complex issues for senior stakeholders and decision-makers
* Knowledge of digital inclusion, smart places or digital ecosystems
* Experience working within local or national government
* Understanding of telecoms funding programmes (e.g. BDUK) and public funding frameworks
Qualifications
* Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional experience
* Evidence of continuous professional development in digital infrastructure or programme delivery
Our values
* Working together – building strong partnerships across sectors
* Making an impact – turning strategy into meaningful outcomes
* Being human – valuing diversity and authentic leadership
* Shape the future of connectivity, innovation and inclusion
* Influence national policy and investment decisions
* Work in a collaborative, ambitious and forward-thinking organisation
* Play a key role in delivering the Regional Growth Plan
Application Closing Date: 14th April 2026
Projected Interview Date: 21st April 2026
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