S&T People Lead

The Science & Technology (S&T) People Lead is responsible for leading the team ensuring utilisation of individuals in line with business requirements. This role includes line management, performance management, tasking individuals within their Suitably Qualified and Experienced Person (SQEP) boundaries, and assuring the health, safety, and security of the individuals in the team.

Your primary focus as an S&T People Lead is to lead people to perform which is achieved through managing individual performance by setting clear expectations, using feedback and coaching techniques as part of regular performance conversations, providing honest appraisals, and recognising good performance whilst proactively, confidently, and promptly addressing both poor performance and poor behaviours.

You will have a pivotal role in aligning and balancing the business needs of Dstl against the development and goals of their people to deliver Mission success.

Dstl recognises the importance of diversity and inclusion as people from diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas. We are committed to building an inclusive working environment in which each employee fulfils their potential and maximises their contribution.

We have opportunities in the following areas:

• Sensor Mission Systems (SMS)
• AI and Data Systems Foundations
• AI & Data & Networks Analysis
• Forensics & Identity Team
• Hazard Management Team
• Energetic Threat Characterisation
• Maritime Countermeasures Team
• Energy Transfer Technologies
• Deterrence & Strategic Stability
• Offensive Air Team

For more information on the People Lead vacancies, please see the S&T Delivery opportunities document attached below.

In this role you will confidently manage and develop your team, identify and manage risks proactively to ensure the successful realisation of objectives and be confident in your ability to make effective decisions as a leader.

You will have an awareness regarding the technical capability area of your team, whether through prior experience or a commitment to ongoing learning. You will demonstrate an awareness of and maintain a strong appreciation of the relevant disciplines, their practical challenges, associated hazards, and relevant regulatory landscapes.

This technical engagement enables you to contribute directly to delivering safely and securely, reinforcing your leadership through hands on understanding and credibility.

For more information the job responsibilities, please see the job profile attached below.

Open to UK nationals only.

This job is not open to candidates who hold a dual nationality.

This vacancy is using Success Profiles (opens in a new window), and will assess your Behaviours and Experience.

We want you to have your best chance of success in our recruitment process, so If at any stage of the application process you would like help or assistance please contact the Dstl Recruitment Team dstlrecruitment@dstl.gov.uk and we will do all we can to support you.

At the application stage, we will assess your submitted application against the essential criteria set out in the job profile.

Sifting will take place week commencing 26th October 2026 with interviews to be held face to face at Dstl Porton Down or Dstl Portsdown West from 9th November 2026.

Your interview will consist of behavioural and technical competency-based questions. You will also be required to deliver a 10-minute presentation. Further details for the presentation will be provided to candidates invited to interview.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview or assessment.