Technology Innovation Consultant

Architecture, Data, Information, and Innovation (ADII) is home to the Technology Innovation team. We drive business transformation across the Defra group through proactively identifying and exploiting disruptive information technologies by providing horizon scanning, exploration, and consultancy capabilities.

Examples of the team’s work over the last 12 months include the creation of working Proofs of Concept for AI Chatbots, Computer Vision for digitising physical media, AI Automation for Form Submissions, Internet Surveillance for illegal Trading and Virtual and Augmented Reality applications for field workers and training. We also create Research Papers on developing technologies like autonomous drones and Quantum Encryption.

We have an exciting opportunity for you to join us at Defra’s DDTS Technology Innovation team to support this important work. This role is instrumental in ensuring that Defra’s business strategies, policies, and operations are informed by emerging digital technologies. As Technology Innovation Consultant, you will provide subject matter expertise on emerging technologies, support horizon scanning, consultancy engagements, and lead proof-of-concept and pilot initiatives. Extensive collaboration across Defra and the broader technology landscape is essential for delivering innovative projects in the evolving tech space.

Responsibilities

• Continuously scan Defra’s business environment and technology market for disruptive trends that could transform operations.
• Develop thought leadership materials such as reports and explainer videos to promote strategic and policy-driven technology adoption.
• Lead the delivery of proof-of-concepts, pilots, and proof-of-value initiatives, securing executive sponsorship and reporting findings to business leaders.
• Work with strategy, policy, and technology architecture teams to shape business models and roadmaps that incorporate emerging technology trends.
• Engage with key technology suppliers and vendors at senior levels to explore partnership and innovation opportunities.
• Build strategic relationships with academia, innovation centres, and government-backed initiatives, driving collaborative IT-enabled innovation projects.
• Champion and lead the Defra Innovation Network, fostering knowledge exchange and ideation within the technology and innovation community.
• Support the continuous improvement of Defra’s Technology Innovation exploration processes and associated tools.

Skills & Experience

• Knowledge of emerging technologies, global market trends, and the IT landscape, with the ability to assess their business impact.
• Understanding of Defra’s strategic drivers, policies, and IT strategies, ensuring technology trends align with business needs.
• Ability to lead technology-enabled business transformation, from ideation to pilot implementation, delivering clear recommendations.
• Experience in IT consulting, specifically in emerging technology transformation, with the ability to create compelling business visions.
• Proven ability to build networks with senior business leaders, suppliers, and specialist communities, securing investment and sponsorship for innovation.
• Highly creative, with the ability to envision radical business opportunities enabled by technology and deliver persuasive consultancy narratives.
• Strong strategic thinking and judgement, navigating ambiguity while shaping compelling technology adoption strategies.
• Exceptional communication skills, translating complex technical concepts into clear business opportunities for stakeholders at all levels.