Maximizing Tech and Data in Government Finance: A Long-Term Vision

Maximizing Technology and Data Usage to Shape the Future of Government Finance
The HM Treasury is currently in the process of developing a comprehensive plan for the remainder of the decade, with a specific focus on skills, technology, and data usage. In a recent interview with Cat Little, the head of the government finance function and second permanent secretary to the Treasury, she unveiled the department’s intentions to prioritize digital and data in their long-term strategy.

When prompted to encapsulate her outlook for 2023 in three terms, Little opted for ‘resilience, tenacity, productivity’. She expounded upon the essential nature of resilience both professionally and personally and emphasized the importance of patience and sustained effort in achieving long-term outcomes. Little also conveyed her enthusiasm for productivity, underscoring the government’s initiatives to promote efficiency and transformation through technology, data, and AI.

Looking forward to 2024, Little delineated the priorities for the HM Treasury and government finance, which comprise of formulating a new Future of Finance strategy for 2030. This strategy will entail working in collaboration with teams across the government to focus on new skills, innovative data and technology utilization, and delivering outcomes through multi-disciplinary teams. Additionally, she stressed the significance of public sector productivity, judicious spending of funds, and unwavering dedication to enhancing citizen outcomes. On a personal note, Little aims to achieve a personal best in a 10km run.

In the spirit of the festive season, Little disclosed her predilection for mini mince pies, stollen, and pigs in blankets, expressing her desire for these indulgences to be available year-round. However, she bemoaned the scarcity of these treats outside of the holiday season and the resulting disillusionment prompting a ‘bah humbug’ reaction.

For further insights and detailed information from the 2023 Permanent Secretaries Roundup, interested readers can access the complete entry on Civil Service World’s website.