News story

Global search launched to recruit Permanent Secretary for Department for International Trade

An open and fair competition to recruit a new Permanent Secretary to lead the Department for International Trade (DIT) was announced today by the International Trade Secretary Liam Fox.

As the UK negotiates the best possible deal for the UK, the new Permanent Secretary will be vital in establishing the department in its new role promoting free trade and UK business on the global stage.

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing complex trade negotiations and market access deals with non-EU countries, delivering ambitious targets on exports and inward investment. They will help shape the UK’s international trade and investment opportunities, drive even greater openness with international partners and put Britain firmly at the forefront of global trade and investment.

International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said:

Our message to UK businesses, global investors and international partners is clear – the UK is a beacon for open trade.

We’re extremely privileged to have the expertise of Sir Martin Donnelly to guide the department in its formative stages with his background in both UK and international policy-making. International trade and investment is vital to the success of the UK economy and I want the best possible candidate to support me to deliver the best possible future trade environment for Britain as we move towards Brexit.

The new Permanent Secretary will work with the ministerial team to implement the overall strategy and policy for DIT, establishing and leading a strong team and promoting a collaborative culture internally and across government. This individual will also play a critical role in contributing to the collective leadership of the Civil Service. He or she will take over from Sir Martin Donnelly who is currently helping set up the department as the interim Permanent Secretary.

Notes to editors

Sir Martin Donnelly, who is currently helping set up the Department for International Trade as Permanent Secretary, has held senior roles in HM Treasury, Cabinet Office, Home Office and FCO.

He has also been Private Secretary to the Financial Secretary to the Treasury and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and has worked in the European Commission and on secondment in the French finance ministry. Sir Martin, who was awarded a KCB for public service and business in the 2016 Queen’s Birthday Honours, has worked in a range of senior policy jobs in the public sector in the UK and internationally.

For more information about the Permanent Secretary role and how to apply, please visit: Civil Service Jobs

Published 8 September 2016