News story: A new strategy for scientists and engineers in government

Senior civil servants from across Whitehall attended an event at the Royal Society to launch a new strategy for government scientists and engineers.

The strategy sets out what the GSE profession wants to achieve over the next 5 years. It supports the vision of securing science and engineering at the heart of government decision making, by building pride in the GSE profession, raising its profile, and encouraging fresh talent into it.

This new document draws together ideas from hundreds of civil servants who work in government science and engineering across the UK. It commits to change in areas such as reward and recognition, chartership and accreditation, and flexible career paths.

The GSE strategy will be delivered by Sir Mark Walport, Head of Profession, working closely with the GSE profession board.

Its launch signals the start of a work programme that will transform the GSE profession.

Sir Mark said:

In 5 years, I would like the GSE profession to emerge having exceeded all of the expectations in the strategy, with a stronger identity, with a rich portfolio of successes demonstrating the impact of our work and the value we bring in government – proud of who we are and what we do.

Sir Jeremy Heywood, Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Civil Service said:

I am particularly pleased to see the pledge to become an exemplar for the Civil Service talent action plan. Diversity and inclusion is a top priority for the leadership of the Civil Service and this is a strong reminder that the professions can and must lead in delivering strategic priorities for the Civil Service as a whole.

Chris Wormald, Head of the Policy Profession, said:

This strategy provides particular emphasis on policy professionals and scientists and engineers understanding each other’s worlds. I welcome this strategy which will drive effective partnerships and deliver a better service for government.

To find out more about the strategy, read Sir Mark Walport’s introductory blog post.

You can read the full GSE strategy on the Government Science and Engineering website.

To register to become a member of the GSE profession, fill out this short survey.