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- Tasks: Lead data strategy initiatives to drive meaningful change across the Rural Payments Agency.
- Company: Join the Rural Payments Agency, part of Defra, focused on innovation and data-led services.
- 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 transforming how data shapes rural communities and agriculture.
- Qualifications: Experience in data management 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 Sunderland 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 Sunderland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Rural Payments Agency on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just help you get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the RPA's data strategy. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and challenges. This shows us that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills with real examples! When discussing your experience, relate it back to how you can help the RPA achieve its data maturity goals. We love seeing how your past work aligns with our mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can keep you fresh in our minds. Plus, it’s a nice touch that shows your professionalism.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Strategy Senior Manager in Sunderland
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: Let your enthusiasm for data-led decision-making shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who’s not just qualified but genuinely excited about driving change through data, so share any personal projects or insights that demonstrate this.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
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 Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves significant collaboration across teams, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked with diverse stakeholders. Highlight your experience in leading workshops or discussions that drove data initiatives forward.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Mindset
Be ready to talk about specific tools and methodologies you’ve used for data analysis, such as Power BI and Power Automate. Share how you’ve applied these tools to create actionable insights and improve data management practices.
✨Emphasise a Positive Data Culture
Discuss your approach to fostering a positive data culture within an organisation. Share any initiatives you’ve led or been part of that encouraged colleagues to embrace data-driven decision-making and how you plan to champion this at RPA.