Operational Delivery Fast Stream

Civil Service

Wide

Expected closing date: Thursday, 5 November 2026

We recommend applying to open roles as soon as you are able. Employers may close applications early, so don't miss out.

Apply Now

TL;DR

Key Takeaways

3.5-year scheme focused on leading teams and delivering government policies across various departments.
Earn up to £55,000 on graduation, with a generous benefits package including a CMI Level 6 qualification.
Requires a 2:2 or higher in any degree subject (or equivalent for in-service route) and eligibility to work in the UK.
Placements across multiple government departments, with increasing management responsibilities each year.

About the Role

Operational Delivery Scheme

This is a 3.5-year scheme focused on making government policies, strategies, and plans a reality, with the aim of transforming people's lives.

What you'll experience

You will gain experience and skills by working in various challenging Operational Delivery roles across different government departments, such as the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Justice, Department for Work and Pensions, HM Revenue and Customs, and the Home Office. By the end of the scheme, you will be:

Leading teams, managing operational performance, and continually improving services.
Setting vision and purpose, role modelling positive leadership behaviours, managing, coaching and developing inclusive and diverse teams.
Ensuring decisions and priorities made in real-time are based on evidence and analysis to maximise value and best service.

Entry Requirements

You must be eligible to work in the UK.
You need, or expect to receive, a 2:2 or higher in any degree subject, including degree apprenticeships.
Existing civil servants can apply without a degree provided they meet the criteria for the in-service route.

Benefits

Gaining experience in line management.
First-hand front-line operational experience.
Responsibility and autonomy in impactful roles.
Completion of a Level 6 CMI accredited qualification, with the opportunity to apply for Chartered Management Status.
Completion of an executive leadership course.
Opportunity to widen experience with exposure to other professions.
Part of the largest professional community across government.
Earning potential of £55,000 on graduating.
Generous annual leave starting at 25 days plus national holidays.
Access to the Civil Service Pension Scheme.
Flexible working opportunities.
Season ticket loans.
Sports and social activities.
Childcare assistance.

Supporting Your Learning

A Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Level 6 in Leadership and Management qualification across years 1 & 2.
A Policy to Delivery course.
An optional additional Executive Leadership Course in year 3.

Scheme Placement Details

Year 1: A 12-month placement in a government department, including 4-8 weeks of front-line exposure. May include line management responsibilities for a small operational team.
Year 2: A 12-month placement in a different government department, leading and managing a team, with opportunities for job shadowing, coaching, or mentoring.
Year 3: A 12-month placement in an operational delivery role within a different department, with large-scale management responsibilities in a complex and challenging role.