Home Office seeks immigration technology head

The Home Office is looking to hire a director for immigration technology as part of requirements arising from Brexit.

The role will lead the design and delivery of the digital, data and technology needed to respond to the UK’s decision to leave the EU and further evolution of the systems in what is “a critical time in government, given the enormity and potential of the current agenda”.

With responsibility for around 1,000 staff, the two-year function is a “high-profile role with considerable personal influence and impact”, with responsibility for a budget of about £120m.

In a welcome message in the candidate information pack, chief digital, data and technology officer at the Home Office, Joanna Davinson, said a lot of progress has been made around evolving the strategy to in-source design and architecture decisions, adding that the opportunity for transformation across the department is “immense”.

“It is clear that the department’s ability to deliver major transformational change depends hugely on our digital, data and technology capabilities,” Davinson said.

“I believe we have some of the most fascinating digital, data and technology leadership roles in the market.”

Attracting, developing and motivating talent to join what is “rapidly becoming one of the most sophisticated and innovative users of technology and data in the UK” is another key task of the role.

The role comes with a salary up to £140,000 and is open to UK nationals only. Applications must be received by 31 May.