Head of Digital Governance

Head of Digital Governance

Location: Swansea, Bristol, Birmingham (Garretts Green), Nottingham, Yeading (Hayes), Oldham (Chadderton), Leeds, Newcastle upon Tyne

Salary: £57,515 per annum

Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time or Part Time

Closing Date: Monday 6th July 2026

DVSA is investing in the foundations that support a strong, modern digital function from the way we govern and assure delivery to how we build trust in our services and data. We are growing a team that can shape and strengthen how digital work gets done, and we are looking for leaders who bring clarity, consistency, and confidence to how we manage change.

This role is part of the Digital & Data Hub – a centre of expertise designed to improve how we recruit and develop digital talent, embed better governance, and support business areas with expert advice and insight. Whether it is setting clear routes through governance forums, improving how we assess digital risk, or supporting portfolio delivery teams, you will play a key role in making sure DVSA delivers smarter, more joined‑up digital services.

You will work closely with colleagues across Driver, Vehicle, Enforcement and Common Services, helping teams navigate complexity, stay aligned to strategy, and make decisions with the right information at the right time. We are building a high‑performing, inclusive digital culture and this is your chance to help shape how it operates.

• Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary
• 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave), plus 8 bank holidays and a privilege day for the King’s birthday
• Flexible working options where we encourage a great work‑life balance.

Lead a small team responsible for maintaining oversight of DVSA’s digital portfolio. Ensure that digital activity is delivered responsibly, aligned with organisational goals, and supported by sound decision‑making and assurance.

Based in one of our administrative offices (Bristol, Newcastle, Swansea, Nottingham, Oldham, Birmingham or Leeds), this role requires a blend of strategic thinking, relationship management and professional credibility in governance and assurance.

• Leadership: Guide and support a small team of governance and assurance professionals, creating a culture of integrity, collaboration and constructive challenge.
• Governance Oversight: Own the digital governance framework and ensure it reflects best practice, government standards and the evolving needs of DVSA’s digital teams.
• Assurance & Risk: Be the go‑to expert for digital assurance ensuring our projects are accountable, well‑documented, and set up for success from the outset.
• Project & Programme Practice: Maintain and evolve our programme and project delivery standards, ensuring they are usable, proportionate and aligned with recognised methodologies such as MSP and PRINCE
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• Senior Engagement: Work alongside directors, service owners and external partners to maintain trust and alignment across DVSA and the wider Department for Transport family.

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced professional who thrives in environments where they can work with high levels of autonomy and bring structure and rigour to areas that need it most.

Extensive experience and a deep understanding of governance and policy compliance. A robust background in project and programme methodology and a proven track record of working with and influencing executive or board‑level colleagues. Excellent communication, presentation and facilitation skills, and a history of using assurance functions to inform decision‑making effectively. Set standards and processes that enable and monitor quality.