DCMS launches search for new data expertise after pinching GDS data role

The DCMS is on the search for two gurus to lead on data strategy

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) is belatedly looking to make good its deficit of data-leadership skills following its capture of the data function of the Government Digital Service (GDS) with the recruitment of two specialists.

It has opened recruitment for a new head of data strategy and a head of data economy to spearhead its newly acquired digital and data transformation activities.

However, potential recruits have only until the end of the week to apply.

The DCMS describes data as being "the fuel of digital economy and global trade" and capable of "driving new business models, supporting innovative technologies like artificial intelligence and improving the way we deliver public services" in the recruitment ads.

The department explains: "Advances in data science will help us solve some of the biggest problems facing society, by advancing scientific research and shedding new light on old problems from congestion to cancer treatment".

Both leaders will work across government, industry and academia to "answer some of the most challenging and important policy questions facing the UK" in terms of data.

The head of data economy, which offers a salary of between £55,388 and £66,665, will be tasked with building and leading a new data team to "set strategy and policy on the use of data in the economy and in society".

They will also "develop a robust evidence base to drive policy making in this emerging area" and "build productive links with the industry, academic and international experts to improve policy making and pave the way for delivering ambitious action by government".

Finally, the head of data strategy will be challenged with creating and delivering a data strategy for the entire government. They must be "ambitious, deliverable, coherent and innovative", according to the job ad.

The candidate will also "convene experts across industry and government to develop strategy and policy for data in the economy and the use of data in government".

The government is looking for someone with experience of digital and data policy. If successful, they will be paid between £55,388 and £66,665 as well.

Applications for both roles close on 22 April.