Event
24 February, 2026
10:00 am - 11:00 am

The future of civil service reform: reflections and realities

Civil service reform has been a recurring ambition of successive governments, but today’s pressures make the challenge particularly acute. Rising demand, constrained resources, technological change and shifting public expectations all underline the need for a civil service that is more agile, skilled and accountable. 

The Government’s reform agenda seeks to deliver a workforce that is smaller, but stronger − with sharper skills, better use of data, and more effective structures to support ministers in tackling national priorities. As this plan develops, now is the moment to reflect on progress, lessons learned, and the path ahead. 

Re:State is delighted to welcome Janet Hughes, Director General for Civil Service Reform and Efficiency, to reflect on her first few months of work in the role, and her plans going forward.

This is a private event which will be held under the Chatham House rule.