Statutory Data Returns Manager
Planning and Analytics
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £47,389 to £56,535 Full Time, Indefinite
Closing Date: Sunday 22 November 2026
Interview Date: Thursday 03 December 2026
Reference: 1089-26
This is an exciting opportunity to lead a central team of data experts delivering student statutory returns, building effective data governance and assurance processes, and directly informing our understanding of student experience and outcomes.
The Opportunity
As Statutory Data Returns Manager, you will:
- lead the preparation, optimisation and submission of statutory student data returns;
- develop a deep understanding of the data required from the institution to meet statutory requirements, including data flows across systems;
- collaborate with internal stakeholders to compile necessary data, identify and resolve data quality issues, and enhance data assurance processes.
About You
You will have experience managing data returns or related compliance processes within a large organisation, including implementing data quality and governance processes. Technical experience of working with large and complex datasets, relational databases and data workflows, including data transformation, analysis and assurance is also essential.
The ideal candidate will be a highly analytical problem-solver, with the ability to understand, interpret and relay complex information and requirements. We are also looking for proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to resolve data quality issues and drive continuous improvements in data processes. You will also have experience of line-management, including effective prioritisation of work and team development.
Knowledge of the UK Higher Education sector and policy environment, as well as experience delivering Higher Education statutory returns is desirable but not essential.
Contract
This post is offered on a permanent full-time basis with a hybrid working pattern. We are happy to talk about flexible working opportunities.
Contact
To find out more about this opportunity, please contact Mark Yoxon, Co-Director of Strategic Planning and Governance with any questions, or for an informal discussion about the role (m.yoxon@lancaster.ac.uk)
Further Details
Job Description
Person Specification
Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based.
Find out what it's like to work at Lancaster University, including information on our wide range of employee benefits, support networks and our policies and facilities for a family-friendly workplace.
The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues.
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
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Statutory Data Returns Manager - 1089-26 employer: Lancaster University
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