Permanent Under-Secretary and Head of the Diplomatic Service

About the role

The Permanent Under-Secretary and Head of the Diplomatic Service leads the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the UK Government’s principal department for international affairs. Reporting to the Cabinet Secretary, the role advises the Foreign Secretary and senior ministers, shaping the nation’s foreign policy and representing the department at the highest level.

Key responsibilities

• Drive delivery of the FCDO’s top priorities, including security, growth, resilience, migration, development, climate, and gender equality.
• Lead the FCDO 2030 transformation programme, ensuring structural and cultural change to maintain a strong international strategy.
• Provide strategic counsel to the Foreign Secretary, ensuring policies are cost‑effective, evidence‑based and achievable.
• Translate the Prime Minister’s and Foreign Secretary’s ambitions into a clear vision for staff, aligning resources and motivation.
• Act as Accounting Officer for ODA and non‑ODA programming, accountable to Parliament.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, workforce capability, excellence in delivery and diversity.

Required profile

• Extensive senior leadership experience in government or large public‑sector organisations.
• Proven ability to manage complex, multi‑disciplinary programmes and drive organisational transformation.
• Strong understanding of international affairs, security, economic development and diplomatic relations.
• Excellent judgment, strategic thinking and the capacity to provide independent advice to senior ministers.
• Commitment to public service values and to fostering an inclusive, high‑performance culture.

Required skills