Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data strategy and governance, ensuring effective use of reference and master data.
- Company: Join the Data Strategy and Standards Directorate at the forefront of government data transformation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to revolutionise public services through innovative data management.
- Qualifications: Experience in data strategy, excellent communication skills, and strong leadership abilities required.
- Other info: Work alongside senior digital leaders and influence government-wide data initiatives.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
You will be part of CDDO and the Data Strategy and Standards (DS&S) Directorate at an exciting time as we build a new data governance and policy function and establish a Data Architecture Design Authority to sit alongside the established Data Standards Authority. At DS&S, we want to improve services for end users and improve how new policies are developed through the effective use and reuse of data. This will involve solving complex or/and complicated problems to deliver on the commitments in the National Data Strategy and DS&S’s forward plan.
You’ll be working with colleagues from other government departments, as well as external partners, and challenging others to be ambitious in transforming the way data is used and shared across government to help deliver joined-up, trusted, public services that meet the needs of their users.
As the Head of Reference and Master Data Management you’ll:
- act as a senior advisor on best practice reference and master data development, able to deploy multiple levers to ensure the best outcomes
- apply your creativity to how our standards and frameworks are presented so that our reform remit and our ambitious, but achievable, goals are easily understood so that we sustain support for our plans. Excellent verbal and written communications skills are critical to performing this role effectively
- develop a clear government roadmap and plan for the use of reference and master data
- develop a strong market intelligence and horizon scanning function
- represent the programme with internal and external senior digital leaders and policy advisors
- be part of the DS&S senior team, who you will partner with to lead the delivery of the long term vision and near term strategy for the programme so that it reflects strategic requirements of the whole of government, fits with wider public sector domains, and keeps pace with technology innovation
- ensure stakeholders across government are both informed about and consulted on priorities, progress and plans, and understand the strategic importance of making effective use of data standards to meet their business goals
- lead the DS&S Reference and Master data function, and further develop its structure, capability and ways of working.
This role requires:
- experience of leading work on data strategy and frameworks development, particularly in relation to reference and master data
- excellent communication and writing skills
- strong interpersonal skills, including relationship building, listening and influencing, with an ability to build effective relationships with senior management and operate successfully in a political or complex environment
- ability to negotiate and reach mutually beneficial compromises, remaining calm when under pressure from senior stakeholders
- demonstrable awareness of the whole of government’s digital and data strategy context
- ability to balance changing priorities, deal with ambiguity, using astute judgement to make decisions in the absence of full facts
- a robust understanding and care about the value of data and technology to transform lives, and be committed to working with colleagues in all digital disciplines, as well as those in more traditional government roles
- an understanding of agile delivery and development best practices
- strong experience of team leadership, recruitment, line management and coaching staff.
Head of Reference and Master Data Management employer: Manchester Digital
Contact Detail:
Manchester Digital Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Reference and Master Data Management
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the data governance and management field. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with others who are already in similar roles. This can provide you with insights into the expectations of the position and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in data management. Understanding current tools and methodologies will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led data strategy initiatives in the past. Highlight your experience in building relationships with stakeholders and how you've navigated complex environments to achieve results.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of the National Data Strategy and how it aligns with the goals of the DS&S. Being able to articulate how your vision for reference and master data management fits within this framework will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Reference and Master Data Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in data strategy and frameworks development, particularly focusing on reference and master data. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and ability to navigate complex environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for data governance and policy functions. Clearly articulate how your skills align with the role's requirements, especially your communication and interpersonal skills, and provide examples of how you've successfully influenced stakeholders in the past.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, emphasise your experience leading teams and developing data strategies. Highlight any specific projects where you have improved data usage or governance, and mention your understanding of agile delivery practices.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents. Ensure there are no grammatical errors and that your writing is clear and concise. This is crucial as excellent written communication skills are a key requirement for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Digital
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Head of Reference and Master Data Management, it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience in data strategy and frameworks. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in complex environments.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated complex data concepts to diverse audiences.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the whole of government’s digital and data strategy context. During the interview, demonstrate your awareness of how reference and master data management fits into broader governmental goals and how it can transform public services.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Scenarios
Given the importance of stakeholder engagement in this role, prepare for questions that assess your ability to build relationships and influence senior management. Think of scenarios where you've successfully navigated political complexities and reached mutually beneficial compromises.
