The leading modern public services programme offers a blend of academic expertise, practical insights, and leadership learning to ensure individuals are equipped with the knowledge to implement digital transformation in their organisation.

About the programme

This programme is open to those who work in the Welsh public sector delivering devolved services. If you are unsure, you can check the register of devolved public bodies.

The programme is delivered over 5 days with 4 in-person sessions and 1 online session.

It has been designed to lead participants through a range of digital topics that underpin a senior leadership role, with a focus on supporting transformation.

Those who complete the programme are able to join our alumni network, which will connect senior leaders across Wales and provide access to relevant events.

“As the Future Generations Commissioner, I’m thrilled by the launch of CDPS’s training programme for public sector leaders. This forward-thinking programme aligns with the ethos of the Future Generations Act by prioritising long-term digital sustainability, fostering collaboration across the Welsh public sector, and ensuring a focus on Welsh language and accessibility.

By equipping public sector leaders with the skills to embrace technology and a user-centric mindset within service design, this programme not only fosters a culture of innovation but also ensures that our actions today benefit both the current and future generations of Wales.” 

– Derek Walker, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales

The programme will be taking place in:

North Wales (January - March 2025)

29 and 30 January (in person)

20 Feb 2025 (online)

26 and 27 March (in person)

South Wales (April - June 2025)

30 April and 1 May (in person)

28 May (online)

18 June and 19 June (in person)

Mid Wales (September - November 2025)

24 – 25 September (in person)

22 October (online)

26 – 27 November (in person)

Participants must be available for the full 5 days of the programme in their chosen location. 

Learning objectives

During the programme, we will cover:

  • Definition of digital transformation: understand its relevance to strategic priorities in Wales
  • Assess digital maturity: identify challenges and their impact on organisational goals
  • Address common challenges: address shared problems across a peer network
  • Embrace user-centred design: learn how to address user problems through digital, improve efficiency and save money
  • Plan and implement actions: develop practical strategies for organisational transformation
  • Become part of an alumni network: access to exclusive leadership events post-programme completion

Applications

North Wales

We are now accepting applications to join our North Wales cohort (January - March 2025). To apply, please complete our application form and submit a personal statement.

Your personal statement should be clear, detailed, and provide specific examples of your leadership experiences. It should also explain how the programme would impact your professional growth and organisational success. 
We welcome written, video or audio submissions. We suggest 2 paragraphs for written submissions (but no more than 1 A4 page, Arial size 12 font at 1.5 line spacing), and no more than 3 minutes of footage for video or audio submissions.

If you have any queries, or difficulty submitting your application, please get in touch –learning@digitalpublicservices.gov.wales 

Closing date: 16 December 2024 at 11.59pm
 

South and Mid Wales

Please complete our expression of interest form to be the first to hear when applications open to join the South and Mid Wales cohorts.

Equality and diversity

Research shows that, while men apply for jobs where they meet 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalised people tend only to apply when they check every box. So, if you think you have what it takes, but don’t necessarily meet every single point on the job description, please still get in touch. We’d love to have a chat and see if you’d be a good fit.

We are passionate about creating a diverse workforce and positively encourage applications from under-represented communities. We embrace equality of opportunity irrespective of disability, neurodivergence, ethnic origin, colour, nationality, gender and gender presentation, marital status, sexual orientation, culture, or religion.

We operate a blind shortlisting process which involves removing any identifying factors from your application, such as your name, age, location, years of work experience and school.