Government seeks members for refreshed Digital Skills Council

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has issued a call for expressions of interest to join the Digital Skills Council (DiSC), a strategic advisory body dedicated to addressing the nation's current and future digital skills needs.

Co-chaired by Baroness Jones, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Future Digital Economy and Online Safety, and Phil Smith CBE FREng, the Council aims to prepare the UK workforce for emerging technologies and foster thriving regional digital skills ecosystems.

The role of the Council

The DiSC provides a platform for collaboration between industry and government to ensure the UK is equipped to meet the challenges of the evolving digital landscape. Key priorities include:

• Preparing the workforce for emerging technologies such as AI, automation, and data science.
• Supporting localised training initiatives to address regional skills gaps.
• Establishing clear pathways for individuals to progress from foundational to advanced digital skills.
• Promoting accessible career development opportunities across diverse sectors.

The Council also plays a key role in defining national skills standards, guiding workforce development, and fostering innovation through industry-led projects.

DSIT is looking for individuals with deep expertise in the digital skills landscape, strong leadership capabilities, and a commitment to collaboration. The role requires members to contribute actively to the Council’s objectives, including:

• Participating in quarterly meetings and ad hoc working groups.
• Leading initiatives and developing policy recommendations to address skills gaps.
• Supporting pilot programmes and promoting best practices across regions.
• Contributing resources or networks to advance the Council’s goals.

Ideal candidates will bring diverse perspectives, including experience in education, cross-sector knowledge, and expertise in digital inclusion.

The Council will comprise 10–15 members drawn from senior leadership roles across the public and private sectors. Members are typically appointed for a one-year term, with the option to serve up to two years.

While participation is voluntary, members are expected to dedicate sufficient time and resources to fulfil their responsibilities, which include representing regional needs and collaborating effectively with stakeholders.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate:

• Strategic vision and a deep understanding of the digital skills landscape.
• Experience leading collaborative initiatives across diverse stakeholder groups.
• A commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the digital workforce.

Additional consideration will be given to candidates with educational expertise, cross-sector experience, and communication skills to advocate for the Council’s objectives.

Regional focus

The Council’s regional-first approach ensures that local digital skills needs are addressed effectively. By engaging with regional stakeholders and promoting localised initiatives, the Council aims to balance the distribution of opportunities and resources, reducing disparities in digital skills development across the UK.

DSIT encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, particularly those underrepresented in the technology sector.

By fostering collaboration, addressing regional disparities, and promoting inclusive opportunities, the Council aims to create a sustainable and forward-looking digital skills framework. 

Individuals interested in joining the Digital Skills Council must submit their application by Friday, 3 January 2025.