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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team managing a national data service for smart data research.
- Company: Join UCL, a top global university in the heart of London, committed to societal impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days holiday, hybrid working, and perks like gym access and a cycle-to-work scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative projects that drive equitable growth and improve lives through data.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience in project management and stakeholder engagement required.
- Other info: This role is open to international applicants needing visa sponsorship.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
University College London (UCL) is one of the world's top universities. Based in the heart of London, it is a dynamic, outward-looking institution. At its establishment in 1826, UCL was radical and responsive to the needs of society, and this ethos – that excellence should go hand-in-hand with enriching society – continues today. The UCL Department of Geography is a leading UK and global department, with a heritage of excellence in research across a broad range of research themes.
This position is funded as part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)-funded Geographic Data Service (GeoDS), which is part of the ESRC Smart Data Research UK initiative, delivered through the UCL Department of Geography. Smart Data Research UK (SDR UK) is an investment of £22 million in new data services, enabling researchers across the UK to access new forms of smart data. These services include the first national smart data donation service, a pioneering satellite imagery service, and services that provide new insights into our economy, environment, health, and wellbeing.
The Geographic Data Service (GeoDS) seeks to integrate a wide range of data sources to generate new insights into equitable and sustainable growth – bringing focus to geographic disparities, barriers to opportunity and the circumstances of vulnerable populations. Building on the strong foundation of the Consumer Data Research Centre, the GeoDS team develop partnerships with data providers and coordinate a national master’s dissertation programme to engage a new generation of smart data researchers.
About the role
We are seeking a highly motivated individual with management experience and interest in Geographic Information Science. The post holder will be part of an interdisciplinary team spanning both UCL, the University of Liverpool, the University of Oxford and the University of Edinburgh charged with developing and maintaining a national data service that provides ‘smart data’ to researchers. They will be a member of the GeoDS Senior Management Team and will lead the Service Administration Group. The post holder will work closely with the Technical Manager and team of data scientists, data engineers, software engineer and data journalist. In addition to the day-to-day running of the data service the Centre Manager will oversee the Smart Data Research UK grant. The work will also entail fostering and cultivating relationships with commercial and other external partners who supply data to the GeoDS.
The post holder must be able to work flexibly, independently and proactively, and enjoy working with a wide range of individuals and teams, including academic and professional services staff within the Faculty and within UCL’s Finance and Human Resources Divisions, and a range of external stakeholders. The role requires working with Personal and Sensitive Personal Data (as defined under General Data Protection Regulation, GDPR). You will be expected to understand legal liability issues related to the handling of GeoDS research data and emulate best practice in this area.
This is a full time, fixed term, maternity cover post with funding available from early/mid-August 2025 - 31st March 2029. Funding is available at Grade 8, spine point 39-41 per annum (including London Allowance). This role is eligible for hybrid working with a minimum of 40% on site. This role meets the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker certificate of sponsorship or a global talent visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. Therefore, UCL welcomes applications from international applicants who require a visa.
About you
The successful candidate will be educated to degree level in relevant discipline or equivalent professional experience, and have experience of research, contract and budget management and managing complex projects, as well as experience of leading stakeholder and strategic partnership management, with the ability to interpret and document project aims and outputs to a wider audience. You should also have experience of service evaluation and delivery, including reporting to Senior Management Team (SMT), with excellent time management skills and attention to detail, together with the ability to deliver work on time and to tight deadlines. Experience or interest in Geographic Information Science and familiarity with social science and Smart data, including database structures and metadata creation is desirable, but not essential.
What we offer
- 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave plus 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
- Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- Immigration loan Relocation scheme for certain posts
- On-Site nursery
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. The Department is committed to the values of equality, diversity and inclusion; we have an active Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee and networks for B A ME, LGBTQ, and disabled/neurodiverse staff and students. The Department recognises the importance of family-friendly working and we try, as far as possible, to organise meetings and events with staff responsibilities as parents and carers in mind. The Department currently holds an Athena Swan Silver award and is working towards a Gold award. Above all, the Department aims to be a supportive environment for both its staff and students. We especially welcome applications from candidates from under-represented backgrounds, and from candidates using a wide range of theoretical and methodological approaches.
Centre Manager - Geographic Data Service (GeoDS) employer: UK Dementia Research Institute
Contact Detail:
UK Dementia Research Institute Recruiting Team
richard.arnold@ucl.ac.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Centre Manager - Geographic Data Service (GeoDS)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in Geographic Information Science and smart data. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of geographic data services. Attend relevant conferences or webinars, and connect with current employees at UCL or similar institutions on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights into the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing complex projects and stakeholder relationships. Think of specific examples that demonstrate your skills in these areas, as they are crucial for the Centre Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Understand the legal aspects of handling personal and sensitive data, especially in relation to GDPR. Being knowledgeable about these regulations will show your commitment to best practices in data management, which is essential for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Centre Manager - Geographic Data Service (GeoDS)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Centre Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially in management and Geographic Information Science.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in project management, stakeholder engagement, and any familiarity with geographic data or social sciences. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex projects and deliver results.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for the role and the mission of the Geographic Data Service. Mention how your background aligns with UCL's commitment to enriching society through research.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise any experience you have with managing budgets, contracts, and service delivery. If you have worked with personal or sensitive data, mention this to show your understanding of GDPR and best practices in data handling.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Dementia Research Institute
✨Understand the Role and Its Context
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Centre Manager role within the Geographic Data Service. Familiarise yourself with UCL's ethos and how the GeoDS fits into the broader context of smart data research in the UK.
✨Showcase Your Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous management experience in detail. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully led teams or managed complex tasks, especially those that involved stakeholder engagement or strategic partnerships.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Geographic Information Science
While not essential, having a basic understanding of Geographic Information Science will set you apart. Be ready to discuss any relevant experience or interest you have in this field, as well as how it relates to the work of the GeoDS.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare insightful questions about the GeoDS, its future projects, and how the Centre Manager role contributes to its success. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
