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- Tasks: Lead data strategy initiatives to drive meaningful change and improve data management across the Agency.
- Company: Join the Rural Payments Agency, part of Defra, focused on innovation and data-led services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on building a positive data culture.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of transforming how data shapes services for farmers and rural communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in data strategy, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Do you want to be at the forefront of delivering a data strategy to drive meaningful change? We are inviting applications for a Data Strategy Senior Manager to help drive the Rural Payments Agency’s Data Strategy objectives, working within the Data and Innovation directorate and in partnership with colleagues across RPA and the wider Defra group. The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) is an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and provides a range of services to farmers and land managers. It’s an exciting moment to join the RPA as we move towards a data-led organisation, rethinking how data, insight and innovation shape the way we serve farmers, land managers and rural communities.
The successful candidate will join a small team with a complex brief. The Defra Chief Data Office (CDO) is committed to delivering a ‘whole department’ view of data maturity, requiring significant collaboration across RPA teams and liaison across all levels of the business. Using the findings from the 2026 Data Maturity Assessment, the Data Strategy Senior Manager will help the Agency understand data priorities and what they mean in practical terms. Supporting teams to improve how they manage and use data, helping build awareness of the data roadmap, and working with stakeholders to keep things moving in the right direction, the Data Strategy Delivery Manager has the opportunity to shape what’s needed to develop better use of data across the Agency and a data‑led culture.
Responsibilities:- Lead team analysis of the data maturity assessment
- Advise on, develop and manage progress of data maturity actions, influencing and engaging teams across the Agency to meet The Defra Chief Data Office (CDO) requirement and wider government priorities including AI readiness
- Prioritise data roadmap actions through organising and leading the delivery of workshops with a wide range of stakeholders
- Establish and implement data management governance and standards across the Agency, drawing on best practice from Defra, Arms-Length Bodies (ALBs) and other government partners
- Develop clear reporting and success measures to communicate progress using tools such as Power BI and Power Automate to add value
- Support the development of a Data Advisory Service, to ensure RPA colleagues are informed and confident users of data and analysis
- Champion a positive data culture across RPA
- Line manage (including remote management)
- Travel between offices as and when required
Data Strategy Senior Manager in Exeter employer: Government Recruitment Service
Contact Detail:
Government Recruitment Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Strategy Senior Manager in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the Rural Payments Agency or in similar roles. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience with data strategy and management. Bring these along to interviews to demonstrate how you can drive meaningful change.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly through our website and express your interest in future opportunities. It shows initiative and could put you on the radar for upcoming roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow relevant news and developments in data strategy and AI readiness. This knowledge will not only impress during interviews but also help you engage meaningfully with stakeholders.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Strategy Senior Manager in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with data strategy and management. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or achievements!
Show Your Passion for Data: In your application, let us know why you’re excited about driving a data-led culture at RPA. Share any personal experiences or insights that demonstrate your enthusiasm for using data to make a difference in rural communities.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key messages shine through. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Government Recruitment Service
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest data strategies and trends, especially those relevant to the Rural Payments Agency. Brush up on your knowledge of data maturity assessments and how they can influence decision-making within organisations.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves significant collaboration across teams, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked with diverse stakeholders in the past. Highlight your ability to engage and influence others to drive data initiatives forward.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about how you would approach leading workshops or developing a data roadmap. Be ready to share your ideas on how to implement data governance and standards, as well as how you would measure success using tools like Power BI.
✨Emphasise Your Leadership Skills
As a senior manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and manage teams effectively. Prepare to discuss your experience in line management, including remote management, and how you foster a positive data culture within your team.