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

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.

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.”