The NAO plays an essential role in our democracy, helping Parliament hold government to account for public spending and supporting improvement in value for money. We do this through auditing and reporting on the financial accounts of all government departments and national public bodies and examining and reporting on the value for money of how public money has been spent. ​

Our work has arguably never been more important. Government today faces an era of unprecedented complexity, grappling with global issues like climate change, rapid technological development and increased security threats, while striving to provide modern and affordable public services that meet the needs and expectations of today’s society.

Innovation is playing an increasingly prominent role in meeting the growing demands of public services with constrained resources, and it is central to how we at the NAO, serve Parliament and the public. Government delivery is becoming more data-driven and technologically complex, and rapid technological change is creating new opportunities to improve efficiency and strengthen audit methodologies across the profession.

Smart investment in digital, data and technology innovation will be key to our impact moving forward. We have already invested in a modern audit methodology and software platform, and we’ve embraced data analytics capability and digital audit, enhancing quality, insight, productivity and resilience. But this is only the start of our journey. The future of audit is likely to be defined by a range of developments, including agentic AI which could be game changing. In order to grasp the opportunities these developments offer, we’re very excited to appoint our first Executive level Chief Digital and Information Officer; a role that will be as central to our organisation and leadership as digital is to our mission.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of digital, data and technology leadership at the very heart of the NAO. Operating at the organisation’s most senior level, you will work closely with exceptional colleagues and strategic partners, advising the NAO Board while providing inclusive, inspirational leadership to a growing team. Together, you will push the boundaries of what is possible through innovation in digital, data and technology. In doing so, you will make a lasting contribution not only to the NAO, but to peer institutions and the wider public service.

This role is for someone with strong digital and technology skills, who can create and deliver a clear vision and drive positive change while operating with the utmost independence and integrity.

If this sounds like the challenge for you, we look forward to hearing from you. 

Gareth Davies, Comptroller and Auditor General