The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed one of its most significant organisational changes in nearly a decade, with permanent secretary Peter Schofield announcing his departure from the role later this year.
Leadership Transition at Key Government Department
In what represents a substantial shift for one of Whitehall's largest departments, Peter Schofield will step down as permanent secretary of the DWP during the summer months. This move concludes an eight-year tenure at the helm of the department responsible for administering benefits to approximately 24 million claimants across the United Kingdom.
Decades of Civil Service Experience
Mr Schofield's departure marks the end of a remarkable 35-year career within the civil service, during which he has held several pivotal positions. His journey with the DWP began when he joined as director general of finance before ascending to the permanent secretary role eight years ago.
In a comprehensive statement circulated to department staff, Mr Schofield reflected on his decision, stating: "My decision to leave the department is not one I have taken lightly. It has been an absolute privilege to serve, first as director general, finance and then as your permanent secretary."
Reflections on Departmental Achievements
The outgoing permanent secretary highlighted several landmark achievements during his leadership, with particular emphasis on the successful nationwide implementation of Universal Credit for working-age claimants. He described this as "the massive achievement of completing the rollout of Universal Credit for our working age customers," noting that this initiative "paved the way for our transformation journey – and our continued focus on doing things better for our customers and colleagues."
Mr Schofield also expressed particular pride in how DWP staff responded during the coronavirus pandemic, stating he would "always be most proud of the way colleagues came together during the pandemic, and how we were there for people when they needed us the most."
Personal Reflections and Future Plans
In his departure announcement, Mr Schofield acknowledged the difficulty of timing such a transition, explaining: "There is never a good moment to step away from a job like this, but having passed my eight-year anniversary, now feels like a good time to pause and reflect on what I want to do next while spending more time with my family."
He further reflected on his initial assessment of the department upon assuming leadership, recalling: "When I first became permanent secretary, I wrote to colleagues stating there was no better department in the civil service to work for, given the difference we make to the lives of so many people. This could not be truer as I write this note eight years later."
Commitment to Continued Support
Despite his impending departure, Mr Schofield reaffirmed his support for the department's ongoing mission, promising: "When the time comes, you will have no bigger champion than me as you continue to deliver unprecedented welfare and employment support reform while modernising our services."
He praised the dedication of DWP staff, noting: "It is your endless commitment to delivery, and your determination to support each other and our customers that makes this such a special and important place to work."
The permanent secretary confirmed there would be "plenty of time to say goodbye before July," ensuring a structured transition period. He concluded his message by emphasising the department's continued purpose: "We go on delivering for the people we serve, demonstrating our DWP values in all we do. Thank you for your continued support."
