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- Tasks: Lead Keele's data transformation and drive a proactive, data-led culture.
- Company: Keele University, known for innovative research and a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Generous leave, excellent pension, professional development, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Be the chief data strategist and make a real impact on education and research.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in driving change.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to equity and representation.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
The Director, Central Data Service will lead the strategic transformation of Keele’s data landscape. You will lead the development understanding of data within the institution from a mainly reactive ‘report-producing’ and compliance-oriented to a proactive ‘data-led’ culture. As the University’s chief data strategist, you will oversee the entire data lifecycle—from developing processes to ensure the fixing of root-cause quality issues at the source to ensuring a data infrastructure capable of supporting AI aspirations, to deploying advanced visualization tools that empower academic and professional leaders to make real-time, evidence-based decisions.
Our data should be used for the benefit of our teaching and learning, and our research, as such it needs management and governance to enable as well as to protect. You will ensure that while our statutory obligations remain impeccable, our data is treated as a strategic asset that drives institutional development and student success. This role will act as primary contact point to ensure the University develops a coherent approach to Data Services whilst recognising the different requirements across education, research and professional services.
As such the ideal candidate will have good communication skills, have evidential experience of driving change and be able to demonstrate a commitment to collaborative working.
The Benefits
- Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave
- Excellent staff pension scheme
- Access to continued personal, professional and career development
- On site ‘outstanding’ nursery
- Discounted health & fitness facilities on site
- Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)
- Agile working (blend of home and office based) would be considered for this role.
- Some out of hours working will be required in this role.
Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above. The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible.
The University
Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £200 million, over 15,000 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research.
Keele University values diversity, and is committed to ensuring equity of opportunity, and to proper and fair representation across its senior decision making groups. In support of these commitments, the University particularly welcomes expressions of interest and applications from women and from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, for this post.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit our website via the button below. For informal enquiries may be addressed to Daniel Perry, CIO & University Librarian, d.j.perry@keele.ac.uk. Applications to this address will not be accepted.
Closing Date: 28th April 2026. Interviews will be held on: To Be Confirmed. Successful applicants will be notified. Post reference: KU000004973.
Director, Central Data Service employer: Keele University
Contact Detail:
Keele University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Central Data Service
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those at Keele University. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in data management and AI. Show us you’re not just a candidate, but a thought leader who’s ready to drive change in our data landscape.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! We want to hear about your past experiences in a way that highlights your achievements and how they relate to the role of Director, Central Data Service.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow the process!
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Central Data Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Director, Central Data Service role is all about. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills. This will help us see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your unique skills and experiences fit the specific needs of Keele University. Use examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to lead data transformation and drive change.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves a lot of collaboration, make sure to highlight your communication skills in your application. Share instances where you've successfully worked with diverse teams or stakeholders to achieve a common goal.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, the best way to apply is through our website. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining our team at Keele University!
How to prepare for a job interview at Keele University
✨Understand the Data Landscape
Before your interview, dive deep into Keele University's current data practices. Familiarise yourself with their existing data infrastructure and any recent initiatives they've undertaken. This will help you articulate how your vision aligns with their goals and demonstrate your commitment to transforming their data culture.
✨Showcase Your Change Management Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully driven change in previous roles. Highlight your ability to lead teams through transitions, especially in data management or governance. This will show that you not only understand the importance of a proactive data-led culture but also have the experience to implement it.
✨Communicate Clearly and Collaboratively
As the role requires excellent communication skills, practice articulating complex data concepts in simple terms. Be ready to discuss how you would engage with various stakeholders across education, research, and professional services to ensure a coherent approach to Data Services.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity
Keele University values diversity and equity. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to creating an inclusive environment within the data services team. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to fostering diverse perspectives in decision-making processes.