Senior Data Architect

DVSA are looking for a Senior Data Architect to help shape how data is managed, governed and used across the agency. This is a varied role where you will support the delivery of DVSA’s data strategy, working across data architecture, governance, standards, quality and maturity to help improve services and support better decision-making.

Hybrid working with 60% office-based in your designated office in either Bristol, Birmingham, Leeds, Nottingham, Oldham, Newcastle, Swansea or Yeading. Salary up to £82,340 (Grade 7 - base pay of £57,515 plus an additional Digital and Data Profession allowance up to £24,915), 28.97% employer pension contribution per annum and excellent Civil Service benefits.

About role

DVSA are looking for a Senior Data Architect to join their growing Data Management team, helping to improve how data is captured, managed, governed and used across the agency. This is a varied role where you will support the delivery of DVSA’s data strategy, working across areas such as data governance, data quality, data maturity, metadata management, data standards and data modelling.

You will act as a point of contact for a key service area, building strong relationships with stakeholders across the business and helping teams understand the value of good data management. The role will involve working with data owners, data stewards, technical teams and wider digital colleagues to improve data processes, support better decision-making and ensure data is treated as a strategic asset.

This is a good opportunity for someone who enjoys combining data expertise with stakeholder engagement. DVSA have made strong progress in building their internal data capability and there is still scope to influence how data architecture is embedded across the organisation and help shape future ways of working.

Responsibilities

• Define DVSA’s data architecture framework, including models, standards, patterns and principles.
• Develop and maintain a data catalogue, documenting data usage, requirements and flows across the agency.
• Support the DVSA data strategy and roadmap, including data governance and data management artefacts.
• Develop data measurement initiatives to assess data condition, identify issues and support remediation.
• Work closely with EA leadership, Security Architects, Dynamics Architects, Business Architects and wider colleagues to shape data architecture and embed strong governance.

Essential skills

• Experience and expertise in data architecture concepts (i.e. data modelling, model management, metadata management, data governance, data standards or data requirements).
• Experience translating business and service needs into clear data requirements, data flows, processes and practical architecture outputs.
• Experience improving how data is managed, governed, accessed or used, including developing and embedding data systems, processes or standards.
• Experience contributing to data strategy, roadmaps or associated policies, with strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to influence across a complex organisation.

In return, you can expect a flexible working culture, including:

• Salary up to £82,340 (base pay of £57,515 plus an additional Digital and Data Profession allowance up to £24,915).
• Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary.
• 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service, up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave.
• 8 Bank Holidays plus an additional Privilege Day to mark the King’s birthday.
• Access to the staff discount portal.
• Excellent career development opportunities and the potential to undertake professional qualifications relevant to your role paid for by the department, such as CIPD, Prince2, apprenticeships, etc.
• 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme providing free confidential help and advice for staff.

Location

60% Office based from a choice of 7 locations: Birmingham, Swansea, Leeds, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Nottingham, Oldham or Yeading (West London).

Why join DVSA?

DVSA’s work has a direct impact on road safety across Great Britain, helping to make sure drivers, vehicles and operators meet the standards needed to keep people safe. As a Senior Data Architect, you will help improve how data is managed, governed and used across the agency, supporting better decisions and more effective services for the public.

You will work across important areas such as data governance, quality, maturity, standards, modelling and the responsible use of data and AI. You’re joining a growing data team at an exciting stage, with the opportunity to influence how data is treated as a strategic asset across a complex, public-facing organisation.

Apply now or contact Inspire People in complete confidence.