IT Governance manager (East Sussex)

Head of IT Strategy & Architecture – Emergency Services (Public Sector)

South East England | Full-time | Hybrid Working Model

A forward-thinking emergency services organisation is seeking an experienced and strategic IT & Data Governance Manager to lead its digital transformation journey. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape and deliver technology strategies that directly support public safety and front-line service delivery.

The Opportunity

You will take charge of defining and delivering enterprise-wide IT strategy, overseeing the development of digital roadmaps, and ensuring alignment with long-term operational goals. You’ll lead the architecture function, guide large-scale programme delivery, and ensure robust information governance across the estate.

✅ Key Focus Areas

• Lead multi-year digital and IT strategic planning
• Define enterprise, business, data, and technology architecture
• Oversee delivery of IT-enabled change across operational and corporate functions
• Develop robust business cases and drive IT investment planning
• Engage senior stakeholders across public sector bodies, emergency services, and technology suppliers
• Govern information security, risk, and service delivery
• Lead and develop a high-performing internal team and manage external partners

What You’ll Bring

• Extensive experience in public sector IT leadership, ideally within emergency services, local government, or blue-light environments
• Expertise in portfolio and programme management frameworks (e.g. PRINCE2, MSP, PM3)
• Track record in enterprise architecture and digital transformation
• Strong understanding of IT governance, information security, and statutory compliance
• Proven leadership of multi-million-pound IT programmes
• Ability to build consensus across senior stakeholders and influence at executive level
• Familiarity with frameworks such as Green Book/5 Case Model , ITIL , and digital service design best practice

Why This Role?

You’ll be joining a mission-led organisation where your work will make a real-world impact. You’ll shape the strategic use of technology in a high-trust, high-responsibility public service environment, and drive innovation that supports critical services and community outcomes.

If this sounds like it could be a good move for you, please don't hesitate to reach out!