hedgehog lab
Lead Service Designer

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hedgehog lab | Government Projects
We're looking for a Lead Service Designer to join hedgehog lab on a permanent basis, leading service design across government projects where the challenges are complex and the outcomes affect real people's lives.
This role will suit someone who wants to shape how services get designed, not just design them. You'll set the approach across multiple engagements, mentor other designers, and raise the standard of service design work across the team.
You'll map end-to-end service journeys, identify failure points, and work across organisational boundaries to design services that work for the people who use them. You'll be as comfortable in a workshop with policy teams as you are running a design critique.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
This is a hybrid role. You'll work from home most of the week, with two days on site at our client's Manchester or Newcastle office, whichever is closest to you. We're looking for candidates based within 50 miles of either location.
You'll bring:
- Significant experience designing services in the public sector or regulated industries, with a track record of leading that work
- Deep knowledge of the GDS Service Standard and how to apply it across a portfolio of projects
- Strong skills in service blueprinting, journey mapping, and facilitation, plus the ability to coach others in them
- A user-first mindset and the confidence to navigate ambiguity with incomplete information
- Experience leading in agile, multidisciplinary teams and influencing decisions at a strategic level


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Why hedgehog lab?
- You'll be joining a consultancy with 20 years of experience trusted by global brands, working at the intersection of AI and software engineering.
- You'll be part of a community of talented, supportive people who challenge each other, share knowledge, and care about delivering meaningful outcomes for our clients and the citizens they serve.
To apply, please submit your CV along with your expected salary.
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