DBT changes to DBIST and reduce numbers
The new department absorbs parts of the former Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Investment Security Unit, merging science and innovation directly with trade and business.
Headcount Reductions
Under its “Future DBT” transformation program, the department planned a 20% reduction in staff, cutting overall headcount from 8,000 down to 6,500 (including 900 UK job cuts and 600 overseas).
Adviser and Support Cuts
Restructuring heavily impacts domestic and international market teams, reducing small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) export support and international trade advisers as operations pivot toward digital and AI-enabled services.
Office Footprint
The changes involve closures or reviews of several regional offices, including confirmed closures in locations like Bristol alongside reviews in Leeds, Glasgow, Newcastle, Cambridge, and Nottingham.
Whilst the DBIST will be operating at a reduced capacity, the British Chambers of Commerce are hopeful that our ability to advise and support local businesses will increase as a result. We will issue regular updates via this newsletter and continue to work closely with DBIST & other partners.