Chief Executive
Dr Jeff James CBE
Biography
Jeff James has been Chief Executive of the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) since June 2025.
Jeff is a distinguished leader with over 30 years of experience across public service, national institutions, and military service, including 10 years as Chief Executive and Keeper of The National Archives UK, and 14 years in the Royal Navy.
Chief Executive
Some of the Chief Executive’s responsibilities include:
- working with the Chair, non-executive directors and executive directors to deliver DBS’ statutory safeguarding responsibilities
- working with the DBS board to develop the strategic plan for the organisation.
- promoting the DBS corporate strategy, vision and values to inspire and motivate all staff through an open and transparent culture
- leading the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and broader Senior Delivery Team (SDT) to ensure that DBS offers the highest quality of service to our customers
- working with and advising the board on the operational implications of government policy and legislative developments concerning DBS
- ensuring DBS uses modern digital technologies to improve productivity, efficiency and customer service