Location
Central London

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£120,000 per annum

About the Role
This senior leadership role within the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Policy directorate is central to the Government’s ambition to improve outcomes for young people, particularly those not in education, employment or training (NEET). The post-holder will lead the cross-government Youth Guarantee strategy and delivery, collaborating closely with senior leaders across DWP, the Department for Education, HM Treasury, and key external partners. Responsibilities include supporting locally led trailblazers, contributing to the development of a new national jobs and careers service, and ensuring the successful implementation of the Youth Guarantee.

The role operates within a fast-paced and dynamic environment, combining strategic leadership on youth employment policy with overall responsibility for skills strategy. The post-holder will play a critical role in establishing the new adult skills function and supporting policy delivery transitioning from the Department for Education. This position requires strong collaborative working with senior officials, ministers, and external stakeholders.

Key responsibilities include providing strategic leadership on youth employment policy, overseeing the delivery of the Youth Guarantee programmes, leading the Skills Hub within the Labour Market and Skills Group, building strong relationships with government and external partners, advising Ministers and senior officials, representing DWP at senior cross-government forums, and leading a high-performing, inclusive team.

Experience
- Proven experience leading complex policy development and strategy at a senior level, ideally within cross-government, multi-agency, or large-scale organisational contexts.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with senior stakeholders across government, including HM Treasury, Department for Education, and local authorities.
- Track record of delivering programmes focused on outcomes, innovation, and value for money.
- Strong leadership experience building inclusive, high-performing teams and fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Ability to use data and evidence to inform policy, simplify complexity, and support strategic decision-making.

About you
- Credible and confident in engaging and influencing a wide range of senior stakeholders, including Ministers.
- Skilled in building trusted partnerships and gaining the confidence of senior leadership and high-profile stakeholders.
- Collaborative and strategic thinker with a passion for improving outcomes for young people.
- Committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive team culture.

Qualifications
There are no specific formal qualifications required; however, a strong background in policy leadership, programme delivery, and stakeholder engagement is essential.

Desirable
- Understanding of labour market dynamics and challenges facing young people, particularly those not in education, employment or training (NEET).
- Insight into the adult skills operating environment and issues impacting access to adult skills opportunities.