At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data strategy initiatives to drive meaningful change and improve data management.
- Company: Join the Rural Payments Agency, part of the Defra group, focused on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on developing a positive data culture.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of a data-led transformation that impacts rural communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in data strategy and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham
✨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. This will help you stand out during interviews and showcase your practical knowledge.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t wait for job openings to apply. Keep an eye on the RPA website and reach out directly to express your interest in future opportunities. We love enthusiasm!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview by understanding the RPA’s data objectives. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and think about how you can contribute to their data-led culture. Confidence is key!
We think you need these skills to ace Data Strategy Senior Manager in Nottingham
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 our goals at the RPA, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!
Showcase Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves working closely with various teams, it’s essential to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with different stakeholders to achieve common objectives.
Highlight Your Data Expertise: We’re looking for someone who can lead data maturity actions and influence teams. Be sure to include any specific tools or methodologies you’ve used in the past, like Power BI or data governance frameworks, to show us you’re the right fit.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape the future of data at the RPA.
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 an organisation.
✨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 management governance and standards, drawing from best practices you’ve encountered in previous roles.
✨Communicate Your Vision
Articulate your vision for fostering a positive data culture within the RPA. Discuss how you would support colleagues in becoming confident users of data and analysis, and be specific about the tools and methods you would use to measure success.