Because Public Service Matters
National Government Recruitment
We connect central government departments, agencies and defence organisations with exceptional professionals who deliver public service excellence. From policy advisors and civil servants to defence specialists and digital transformation leaders, we provide permanent, temporary and interim talent across all government functions.
What We Do
National government demands precision, integrity and people who understand the weight of public service. At Dovetail & Slate, we specialise in connecting government departments, executive agencies and defence organisations with professionals who deliver under pressure and uphold the highest standards.
From Whitehall policy teams to defence programme managers, digital service designers to operational specialists, we recruit across the full spectrum of central government functions. We understand clearance protocols, departmental structures and the unique challenges of public sector delivery.
Whether you're scaling up for a strategic initiative or filling critical capability gaps, we provide talent that's vetted, cleared and ready to contribute from day one. For complex programmes spanning transformation and infrastructure, explore our dedicated recruitment services.
We promise, we deliver. It's that simple.
Why Work With Us
We understand the rigour, responsibility and pace of government work
Security Clearance Expertise
We navigate BPSS, SC, DV and eDV processes with precision, ensuring candidates meet all security requirements before shortlisting.
Sector Knowledge
Our consultants understand ministerial priorities, departmental structures and the realities of working within government frameworks.
Speed With Rigour
Government moves quickly when it needs to. We deliver shortlists within 48 hours without compromising on quality or compliance.
Confidentiality Assured
Sensitive roles require discretion. We handle all recruitment activity with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism.
Cross-Government Network
We maintain relationships across departments, agencies and ALBs, giving you access to talent that understands government operations.
Values-Led Placement
Beyond the CV, public service requires commitment. We match candidates who share your mission and values.
Defence & Security Recruitment
Defence recruitment demands precision, trust and people who understand operational requirements. Whether you're delivering on major defence programmes, supporting critical MOD projects or fulfilling complex in-service support contracts, we connect you with experienced professionals across the entire defence engineering lifecycle.
Our defence specialists have supported major land, air and maritime programmes across design, integration, test and in-service support. We work with prime contractors, systems integrators and engineering consultancies committed to maintaining and enhancing UK defence capabilities.
From RF design engineers and systems architects to project managers and technical authors, we recruit security-cleared professionals who deliver under pressure and meet the highest standards.
Roles We Recruit
We cover all functions across central government, agencies and defence
Policy & Strategy
Policy Advisors, Senior Policy Leads, Strategic Planners, Research Officers, Parliamentary Advisors, Ministerial Support, Cabinet Office roles and Policy Analysts.
Civil Service & Operations
Executive Officers, Higher Executive Officers, Senior Executive Officers, Grade 6 and 7 roles, Fast Stream positions, Operational Delivery staff and Administrative Officers.
Digital & Technology
Digital Service Designers, Software Engineers, Data Scientists, IT Programme Managers, Cyber Security Specialists, Technology Architects and Digital Transformation Leads.
Defence & Security
Defence Programme Managers, Systems Engineers, RF Design Engineers, Project Planners, Technical Authors, ILS Engineers, Security Analysts and Intelligence Officers.
Project & Programme Delivery
Senior Responsible Owners, Programme Directors, Project Managers, Business Analysts, Change Managers, Portfolio Leads and Delivery Managers.
Finance & Commercial
Finance Business Partners, Commercial Managers, Procurement Specialists, Contract Managers, Financial Analysts, Treasury Officers and Audit professionals.
Communications & Engagement
Press Officers, Communications Managers, Public Affairs Advisors, Stakeholder Engagement Leads, Content Designers and Internal Communications specialists.
HR & Workforce
HR Business Partners, Talent Acquisition Managers, Learning and Development Specialists, Workforce Planners, Employee Relations Advisors and Organisational Development professionals.
Don't see your role listed? We cover all government functions and specialisms—just ask.
What Our Clients Say
Hear from government organisations we've supported
Meet Your Government Recruitment Specialists
Our experienced consultants understand the public sector landscape
Taylor Miller-Davies
Principal Recruitment Consultant
I love camping yet have a fear of pigeons...and other birds!
Seb Scott
Recruitment Consultant
Seb kicked off his career straight out of college in Tech Recruitment before switching to Education where he’s found his stride helping colleges and training providers secure the right talent.
P Romaniuk
Recruitment Consultant
A former semi-pro athlete turned recruiter, P brings performance, positivity and purpose to everything he does. Specialising in Life Skills, Sport and Public Services, he’s driven by helping people land the right role and proving that a positive attitude can change futures.
Security Clearance & Vetting
We're fully committed to maintaining the highest standards of security and vetting for all government placements. Our processes align with UK Government security protocols.
All candidates undergo comprehensive vetting appropriate to role requirements, including:
- Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks
- Security Check (SC) clearance processing support
- Developed Vetting (DV) and enhanced DV coordination
- Right to work and identity verification
- Professional reference verification (minimum of two references)
- Qualification and professional registration verification
- Overseas criminal records checks where applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Strengthen Your Team?
Whether you're a government department seeking exceptional talent or a professional ready to serve, we're here to support you.