At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data management initiatives and ensure data accuracy for strategic decision-making.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation in the rail industry with a focus on data innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential to lead a team and influence data governance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping data strategies that drive business success.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; experience with Microsoft data platforms preferred.
Location: London Marylebone, Aylesbury or Banbury / Hybrid Working – you should be comfortable working in a Chiltern location 3 days a week.
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: Up to £70,000 per annum
Job Purpose
The Data Manager is accountable for establishing and operating an enterprise data management capability that ensures organisational data is accurate, trusted, secure, and fit for operational, regulatory, and strategic decision-making. This includes designing and implementing a data strategy and services, setting and monitoring standards and principles, ensuring data accuracy and integrity, and enabling data-driven decision-making across the business. It will cover the full suite of data capabilities – architecture, governance, management, engineering, master data, reporting and analytics.
Key Accountabilities
- Establish and maintain an operational data capability aligned to the Chiltern Railways Data, Digital and Technology Strategy, with clear ownership, governance, and prioritisation.
- Develop, maintain, and assure a data strategy that supports organisational objectives, regulatory requirements, and measurable business outcomes.
- Recruit, lead and manage a team of up to three data engineers/BI Analysts over successive years.
- Undertake procurement exercises to select a partner(s) to define the target data architecture, assist with its implementation and ongoing, inform the data strategy for the organisation.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to understand data needs and provide timely, accurate, integrated data, reporting and insights.
- Define and evolve the target data architecture, and oversee delivery of data modelling, warehousing, integration, and pipeline solutions through internal teams and delivery partners.
- Ensure the integrity, security, availability, and appropriate use of data across all platforms, in line with agreed standards and controls.
- Monitor data compliance with relevant legal, regulatory, and ethical standards (e.g., GDPR, Data Protection Act).
- Lead data governance initiatives, including defining and refining data policies, classifications, and quality standards.
- Supervise data analysts and data stewards; ensure effective training and capability development.
- Act as a key liaison between IT, business units, and third-party data providers.
- Work with IT and Digital teams to select, implement, and govern appropriate platforms for data management, visualisation, and analytics.
- Drive continuous improvement through audits, data quality metrics, and process enhancements.
- Work with the business, DDaT governance and the digital team to streamline and prioritise the team’s workload.
Person Specification
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Management, or a related field (Master’s desirable) or equivalent experience.
- Certifications in data management or governance (e.g., DAMA CDMP, Microsoft Certified Data Analyst) are an advantage.
- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft data platforms, including Power Platform, Microsoft Fabric, and Azure database technologies, with an emphasis on governance and enterprise use.
Desirable Attributes:
- Experience working in the rail industry or another regulated, asset-intensive, or safety-critical environment.
- Experience with machine learning, AI, or advanced analytics platforms.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex data concepts clearly to non-technical and senior stakeholders.
Data Manager employer: Chiltern Railways
As a Data Manager at our London Marylebone, Aylesbury, or Banbury locations, you will thrive in a dynamic hybrid working environment that promotes collaboration and innovation. We offer competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and a supportive work culture that values data-driven decision-making and integrity. Join us to lead a talented team and make a meaningful impact in the rail industry while enjoying the unique advantages of working in the Chiltern region.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Manager
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend meetups, webinars, or even local events. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they’re even advertised.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Don’t just talk about your experience; demonstrate it! Create a portfolio showcasing your data projects or analyses. This gives potential employers a tangible sense of what you can do and sets you apart from the crowd.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for interviews by researching common questions for Data Managers and practising your responses. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your achievements effectively.
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Data Manager role. Highlight your experience with data management, governance, and any relevant technologies like Microsoft Azure. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about data management and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, be sure to showcase any experience you have in leading teams or managing data projects. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you've done!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chiltern Railways
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
As a Data Manager, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of data management principles. Brush up on your knowledge of data governance, architecture, and compliance standards like GDPR. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since you'll be leading a team of data engineers and analysts, it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams, fostered collaboration, and driven data initiatives that align with business objectives.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions about Microsoft data platforms and tools like Power Platform and Azure. Familiarise yourself with their functionalities and be prepared to discuss how you've used them to enhance data management and reporting in previous positions.
✨Communicate Clearly with Stakeholders
You'll need to liaise with various stakeholders, so practice explaining complex data concepts in simple terms. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated data insights to non-technical audiences, showcasing your ability to bridge the gap between data and business needs.
