Market Insight and Data Analyst in Birmingham

We are seeking a Market Insight and Data Analyst to join our Marketing, Recruitment & Communications Department (Market Insight team), playing a key role in shaping how the University uses data to understand and respond to its markets, audiences and performance. In this role, you will deliver analysis and insight that directly supports student recruitment strategy, marketing performance and academic planning. You’ll work with large, complex datasets – including UCAS, HESA and internal recruitment data – to identify trends, forecast outcomes and uncover opportunities, translating data into clear, actionable insight. Working closely with colleagues across recruitment, admissions and marketing, you’ll help ensure decision-making is driven by robust analysis and a strong understanding of market dynamics.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse and interpret large, complex datasets (e.g. UCAS, HESA and internal data) to identify trends, patterns and actionable insights.
• Develop forecasting models and scenario analysis to support recruitment planning and performance monitoring.
• Build and maintain dashboards and reporting (e.g. Power BI), ensuring data is accurate, accessible and meaningful for stakeholders.
• Apply data-driven insight to support targeting strategies, campaign evaluation and student recruitment activity.

Essential Requirements

• Degree or equivalent experience in a quantitative, analytical or data-focused discipline.
• Experience analysing large, complex datasets and producing robust analytical outputs.
• Strong SQL skills for querying and manipulating relational data.
• Experience using programming or scripting languages (e.g. Python, R or similar).
• Experience developing dashboards and data visualisation (e.g. Power BI or similar tools).
• Ability to integrate multiple data sources to generate clear, actionable insight.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, selecting appropriate techniques to address challenges.
• Ability to communicate complex analytical insight clearly to non-specialist audiences.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver high-quality outputs to deadlines.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience of data analysis within higher education or a similar sector.
• Familiarity with sector datasets such as UCAS, HESA or OfS.
• Understanding of the student recruitment and admissions lifecycle.
• Experience of forecasting, modelling or predictive analytics.
• Experience automating reporting or analytical workflows.

Why work for us

• Work–life balance – Generous leave and hybrid working (role dependent).
• Career development – Opportunities to grow, develop and progress your career.
• Reward and wellbeing – Competitive pay, pension, wellbeing support and staff benefits.
• Inclusive culture – A supportive, diverse environment where everyone belongs.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and to an environment that supports lawful free speech and academic freedom. We will continuously review and improve our policies, practices, and procedures to ensure that we are promoting these in all aspects of our operations. We believe that by working together, combining our many different backgrounds and life experiences, we will empower each other to reach our full potential.

Disability Confident Employer

Birmingham City University is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview.