Lessons from a digital career: John Fitzpatrick’s journey from a Manchester benefits office to leading MoD’s digital transformation John Fitzpatrick’s civil service career has gone from a Manchester benefits office to playing a key role in the MoD’s digital transformation. He relives the journey with Richard Johnstone John Fitzpatrick 26 May 2021 Digital and data is not just something with the potential to transform government services; it can also turbocharge careers. So, at least, goes the story of John Fitzpatrick. The Ministry of Defence’s director for digital engagement has held a number of senior digital posts in government, across departments including the Cabinet Office and the Department for Work and Pensions.