14523 - Director for Science, R&D and Data Transformation

The Director of Science, Research & Development and Data Transformation will report to the Chief Digital and Information Officer. In this role, you will ensure that our research, data, and innovation strategies support the department's strategic objectives, enhance evidence-based decision-making, drive operational efficiency, and enable a transformation that modernises the foundations of the UK justice system-making it more agile, sustainable, and impactful., * You'll lead and inspire a high-performing team of research, data, and innovation specialists, creating a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and continuous improvement. By setting a clear vision aligned with MoJ's transformation strategy, you'll empower your team to deliver evidence-based insights and innovative solutions that challenge the status quo. As part of the senior leadership team, you'll help shape strategic direction and foster a shared sense of purpose across the Service Transformation Group.

• You'll lead the transformation of MoJ's research and data services by embracing emerging technologies, modern delivery methods, and flexible working trends. Alongside managing the business-as-usual portfolio, you'll drive major change through programmes such as the Innovation Fund and Data Improvement Programme-scaling up R&D, strengthening data governance, and embedding science-led approaches across the department.
• You'll manage significant budgets, ensuring investment delivers maximum value while driving cost savings and efficiencies. Where needed, you'll secure additional funding by clearly demonstrating return on investment and broader strategic benefits. Working closely with commercial colleagues, you'll oversee supplier performance and risk and shape the future commercial strategy for research and data services through strong, forward-looking relationships with current and prospective partners.
• You'll need exceptional stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build consensus across competing priorities and navigate complex organisational landscapes. As a senior science and data leader, you'll provide expert input and strategic guidance to a wide range of stakeholders-including ministers, agency CEOs, and senior officials-ensuring research and data decisions are well-informed, aligned, and impactful.

• Inspiring and credible leadership, with the ability to set a strategic vision for the new MoJ Science function and a proven track record of leading change across multiple teams.
• Experience in scaling up new functions - including establishing engagement strategies, workforce and financial planning.
• Deep expertise in data science and transformation, with advanced knowledge of research methodologies, analytics, and the application of emerging technologies.
• Proven ability to work as part of a multifunctional Senior Leadership Team, ensuring alignment and a unified voice across diverse functional priorities.