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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of advanced analytics solutions in a dynamic defence programme.
- Company: Join a major defence digital programme with a focus on innovation and data-driven decision-making.
- Benefits: Long-term contract, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping data strategy and improving governance in a secure environment.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in data lifecycle, SQL, and data visualisation tools; degree in STEM or related field.
- Other info: Ideal for those who thrive in regulated environments and enjoy mentoring others.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Principal Data Analyst to join a major defence digital programme, supporting the design and delivery of advanced analytics solutions across multiple workstreams. This is a senior, hands-on role combining technical leadership, stakeholder engagement, and delivery ownership. You will play a key role in shaping data strategy, improving data governance and quality, and enabling data-driven decision-making across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and delivery of advanced analytics solutions across multiple projects
- Oversee the development and maintenance of dashboards, reports, and automated workflows using data warehousing and SQL-based solutions
- Define and implement data governance, security, privacy, and compliance standards
- Collaborate with data architects, engineers, and senior business stakeholders to shape data strategies
- Translate complex datasets into clear, actionable insights for technical and non-technical audiences
- Lead and mentor analysts, contributing to capability and best-practice development
- Drive innovation through improved data practices, tooling, and emerging technologies
Core Skills & Experience (Essential)
- Strong experience across the data lifecycle, including governance, quality, and validation
- Advanced proficiency with SQL and data warehousing solutions
- Strong experience with data visualisation tools (Power BI, Tableau)
- Proven experience working with cloud-based or hybrid data environments
- Strong understanding of data security, privacy, and ethical considerations
- Experience gathering and translating requirements into scalable data solutions
- Ability to plan, manage, and lead work packages within multi-disciplinary teams
- Experience working in Agile or DevOps environments and contributing to technical strategy
- Degree in STEM, Data Science, or a related discipline
- Professional certifications in analytics or data engineering
- Programming experience using Python
- Exposure to machine learning techniques or advanced statistical modelling
This is not an exhaustive list. We are keen to hear from candidates who may not meet every requirement but bring a strong attitude and willingness to learn.
What We’re Looking For
- A senior data professional who can lead, influence, and deliver, not just analyse
- Someone comfortable operating in a regulated, security-conscious environment
- Strong communication skills and confidence engaging with senior stakeholders
- Active SC clearance or clear eligibility is mandatory
- Contract role – Inside IR35
- Reading-based with hybrid working
- Long-term opportunity within a large defence programme
If you’re a Principal Data Analyst with strong technical depth and leadership experience, we’d like to hear from you.
Senior Data Analyst in Reading employer: LHH
Contact Detail:
LHH Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Data Analyst in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that Principal Data Analyst role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your SQL and data visualisation skills. Be ready to showcase how you've used these tools to drive insights and influence decisions in past roles. We want to see your hands-on experience!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings; be proactive! Check our website regularly and apply directly. Tailor your application to highlight your leadership and technical skills that align with the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest trends in data governance and analytics. Being knowledgeable about emerging technologies will not only impress interviewers but also show that you’re committed to driving innovation in your future role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Data Analyst in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your SQL proficiency, data governance experience, and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how you fit into our world!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about data analytics and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your experience in regulated environments – it’s a big plus for us!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: We’re looking for someone with strong technical depth, so don’t hold back! Include specific examples of your work with data visualisation tools like Power BI or Tableau, and any programming experience you have with Python. Let us know what you can bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at LHH
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the data lifecycle, especially governance and quality. Brush up on your SQL skills and be ready to discuss how you've used data visualisation tools like Power BI or Tableau in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Data Analyst, you'll need to lead and mentor others. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects, and be ready to discuss your approach to driving innovation and best practices in data analytics.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Communication is key! Think about how you’ve translated complex datasets into actionable insights for both technical and non-technical audiences. Be prepared to share specific instances where your stakeholder engagement made a difference.
✨Understand the Defence Environment
Familiarise yourself with the unique challenges of working in a regulated, security-conscious environment. Highlight any experience you have with data security, privacy, and compliance standards, as this will be crucial for the role.
