Head of Data and Analytics in Farnborough

ADS Group and Farnborough International are embarking on an exciting phase of digital and data transformation and are seeking an experienced Head of Data & Analytics to lead the next stage of this journey. As the UK's trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, ADS supports around 2,000 businesses and, together with Farnborough International, delivers world-class events, market intelligence and business support services. The Group is investing significantly in its data capability, placing data, analytics and AI at the heart of strategic decision-making.

The Role

Reporting to the Chief Information Officer, this is a highly visible leadership role responsible for defining and delivering the Group-wide data and analytics strategy. You will lead the development of a modern enterprise data platform, establish robust data governance and quality frameworks, and create a self-service analytics environment that enables colleagues across the business to make informed, data-driven decisions. This is a unique opportunity to shape how data is used across ADS Group and Farnborough International. Acting as both a strategic leader and a hands-on technical expert, you will work closely with senior stakeholders to ensure data is recognised and leveraged as a strategic business asset. You will oversee the Group's analytics roadmap, reporting ecosystem, data architecture and AI initiatives, while championing a culture of evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement. You will lead and develop the Data & Analytics team, build strong relationships across the organisation, and identify opportunities to drive operational efficiency, commercial growth and organisational performance through analytics, automation and emerging technologies.

The Candidate

We are looking for an ambitious and commercially minded data leader with significant experience leading enterprise data and analytics functions. You will have a strong track record of delivering modern cloud-based data platforms and possess expertise across data engineering, architecture, governance and analytics. Experience with Microsoft Azure, Databricks, SQL and Python is essential, alongside a strong understanding of data warehousing, data modelling and information lifecycle management. You will be equally comfortable discussing strategy with executive leaders as you are leading technical conversations with specialists. Exceptional stakeholder management, communication and influencing skills are critical, as is the ability to translate complex business challenges into practical, value-driven data solutions. The successful candidate will be a collaborative and inspiring leader with experience developing high-performing teams and delivering meaningful business outcomes through data. Experience with Power BI, AI and machine learning solutions, DBT, Terraform or relevant Microsoft and Azure certifications would be advantageous.

The Contract

Permanent, full-time position working 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Hybrid working arrangement with attendance at our Farnborough office three days per week. Regular travel to our London office as required. Reporting directly to the Chief Information Officer as part of the Data & Technology leadership.