At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the delivery of complex health data projects that save lives.
- Company: Join Data Connect at The University of Sheffield, a hub for healthcare innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days annual leave, flexible working, and discounts on shopping and travel.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in Agile project management and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 58225 - 58225 £ per year.
School/Department: School of Medicine & Population Health
Work Arrangement: Full Time (Hybrid)
Contract Type: Fixed-term
Closing Date: 15/07/2026
Overview
At Data Connect, a Centre of Excellence within The University of Sheffield, we facilitate researcher access to vital health and social care data, directly contributing to research that enhances and saves lives. We are seeking a talented, strategic Delivery Lead to oversee the delivery of a portfolio of complex health data assets. This pivotal role sits at the intersection of academia and healthcare innovation, working closely with the Yorkshire and Humber Secure Data Environment (YHSDE) programme and specifically supporting the South Yorkshire Delivery Team.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Oversee the end-to-end delivery lifecycle of complex health data assets, ensuring seamless progress from initial request to final output.
- Proactively identify project risks and resolve delivery bottlenecks by convening technical and governance experts.
- Manage team capacity and resource allocation across the active portfolio in collaboration with other Data Connect Project Managers.
- Serve as the primary liaison for the YHSDE programme, ensuring South Yorkshire delivery is fully integrated with central functions through regular regional engagement (including travel to Leeds and York).
- Act as the primary interface between researchers, regional stakeholders, and the internal Data Connect technical teams.
- Create, foster and manage new relationships with NHS trusts and other Data owner organisations.
Governance & Technical Process Standardisation
- Translate complex Information Governance (IG) frameworks and regional policies into actionable development tasks for the team.
- Translate complex research objectives into technical requirements, while effectively managing stakeholder expectations around technical or governance constraints.
- Lead the design and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to create a scalable, repeatable data request framework aligned with the central SDE team.
- Embed Agile practices (sprint planning, stand‑ups, retrospectives) within the team to optimise output and meet delivery milestones.
- Provide formal line management and mentorship to direct reports, supporting their professional development and managing day‑to‑day performance.
Strategic Contribution
- Use data‑driven operational insights to contribute to the long‑term service design and evolution of Data Connect.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Criteria Stage(s) assessed at
- Proven capability to manage a complex portfolio using Agile planning techniques (sprints, stand ups and retrospectives), effectively balancing competing demands on team capacity against challenging deadlines. (Application/ Interview)
- Experience planning future delivery strategy and shaping the team, with the flexibility to pivot on agreed plans and fix things when they go wrong.
- Proven ability to show the strategic value of work to gain stakeholder buy‑in. (Application/ Interview)
- Proven ability to influence, negotiate, and communicate with clarity when engaging with senior staff, clinical leads, and external data providers, effectively translating complex technical constraints and requirements into aligned project scopes. (Application/ Interview)
- Have an enabling, supportive, and collaborative leadership style, and foster a high‑performing team culture. (Application/ Interview)
- Ability to develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and streamlined workflows to improve service efficiency and user experience. (Application/ Interview)
- Proven ownership of risk management, with the ability to not only identify and track complex project risks, but actively mitigate and resolve them. Experience in navigating the intersection of technical delivery and information governance to safely clear blockers and ensure compliance. (Application/ Interview)
- Ability to stay ahead of changing national data policies and a willingness to keep upskilling. Experienced at building professional networks to bring fresh insights into the team’s delivery strategy. (Application/ Interview)
- Experience of managing multidisciplinary technical teams (e.g., data engineers, developers) and a proven ability to continuously improve their working processes and output quality. (Application/ Interview)
- Experience working with Sensitive Data and experience of working within Trusted Research Environments (TREs) or Secure Data Environments (SDEs), with a strong grasp of UK health data standards and NHS data governance frameworks. (Application/ Interview)
Further Information
Grade 8 £48,822 - £58,225 per annum pro rata with the potential to progress to £65,509 through sustained exceptional contribution.
Work arrangement Full‑time Duration FTC - 12 Months - Anticipated start August 2026
Line manager Data Connect Operational Lead Direct reports Data Scientist Junior Data Scientist Information Governance Manager Data Manager
For informal enquiries about this job contact Rosie Gough, Data Connect Operational Lead on r.e.gough@sheffield.ac.uk
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in late July. This will consist of an interview, with a test to be sent out beforehand to present at the interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage approximately 2 weeks after the closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact dph‑staffing‑contracts@sheffield.ac.uk.
Benefits
- A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
- A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
- Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
- A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Professional Services Shared Skills Framework.
- A range of generous family‑friendly policies paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies access to menopause support in the workplace paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more.
Equal Opportunity
We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process. Possession of a criminal record is not an automatic bar to employment at the University of Sheffield. We recognise the value of steady employment in the rehabilitation process and examine each case in its own right. More information can be found on our Information for candidates page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/candidates.
The University of Sheffield Western Bank Sheffield S10 2TN +44 114 222 2000
Delivery Lead in Sheffield employer: Dunhillmedical
At Data Connect, part of The University of Sheffield, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through extensive professional development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and generous benefits, including 41 days of annual leave. Located in the vibrant city of Sheffield, we offer a unique chance to contribute to impactful health research while enjoying a supportive environment that values diversity and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Delivery Lead in Sheffield
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
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Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
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We think you need these skills to ace Delivery Lead in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Dunhillmedical.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Dunhillmedical.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Dunhillmedical. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Dunhillmedical. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dunhillmedical
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Dunhillmedical’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
