The Machinery, the Mindset and the Mission: systems thinking in the machinery of Government and why it matters - keynote at SysPrac25

This talk offers a candid exploration of systems thinking within the UK Government, delivered from the unique perspective of a senior civil servant. Drawing on practical examples such as natural flood risk management and the Troubled Families programme, the speaker illustrates both the power and the challenges of applying systemic approaches to complex public sector problems. The abstract highlights barriers such as departmental silos, political cycles, and resource competition, while also pointing to opportunities for embedding systems practice through capability building, mission-driven government, and grassroots practitioner communities. Attendees will gain insights into how systemic methods can help deliver better outcomes for citizens and how to foster a culture of systems thinking in large, complex organisations.