UK’s Department for Education opens search for new Chief Data Officer

The UK Department for Education has published a senior vacancy for a Chief Data Officer as it expands its work on data strategy, AI adoption, and digital capability.

The UK Department for Education, responsible for children’s services, early years, schools, and further and higher education policy in England, has issued a formal job posting for a Chief Data Officer.

The role sits within the Operations and Infrastructure Group and is advertised at £155,000 under Senior Civil Service Pay Band 2. Work locations include Coventry, Darlington, Manchester, and Sheffield.

According to the published information pack, the post is permanent and will lead the department’s long-term approach to data, digital architecture, and responsible AI deployment across education services.

Role scope and expectations

The job pack states that the Chief Data Officer will direct how the department collects, stores, and uses data. The role is expected to “lead a bold transformation in how we collect, store and harness data—turning it into a powerful, accessible asset”. The position is tied to the department’s broader work on emerging technologies, including AI.

Responsibilities listed include strategic data planning, oversight of enterprise data architecture, governance, risk controls, and supporting innovation in policymaking and service delivery. The job pack also highlights the need to build internal data capability and strengthen evidence-based decision-making across teams.

Candidate requirements and application process

Applicants must demonstrate experience in data strategy, AI and machine learning, governance and compliance, cybersecurity, and delivery of scalable data solutions. The DfE sets out assessment criteria focused on leadership, infrastructure oversight, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders and cross-government partners.

Shortlisted applicants will take part in a staff engagement panel, an assessment with an occupational psychologist, and a formal interview.

The posting concludes with a reminder to applicants: “Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience.”

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