At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of data standards for licensing and ensure interoperability across services.
- Company: Olive Jar Digital, a forward-thinking company supporting government clients.
- Benefits: Remote work, competitive pay, and a chance to shape public sector standards.
- Other info: 4-month contract with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on government processes and improve data management.
- Qualifications: Experience in data standards development and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
4 month contract, outside IR35
UK-wide
Remote
About the role
Olive Jar Digital is looking for an experienced Data Standards Lead to support one of our central government clients. The role sits within a programme focused on digital licensing, where you will lead the development, alignment, and governance of data standards to ensure interoperability across services, departments, and systems.
You will work closely with policy, service design, data architecture, and technical teams to define and articulate clear, usable data standards that support streamlined approval and licensing processes. You will also take responsibility for shaping standards that can be submitted to GDS Open Standards for wider government adoption.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development of data standards for licensing-related data, including approvals, applications, renewals, and regulatory requirements.
- Ensure data interoperability across services, systems, and external partner organisations.
- Analyse current licensing processes and datasets to identify gaps, inconsistencies, and opportunities for standardisation.
- Produce clear, accessible documentation, including data models, definitions, meta-data standards, and supporting artefacts.
- Develop the data standards challenge required for submission to GDS Open Standards, including drafting, justification, and stakeholder engagement.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams - service designers, developers, policy specialists, data architects - to ensure standards meet operational and user needs.
- Engage and present to governance bodies, including GDS, data boards, and departmental working groups.
- Provide expert guidance on best-practice data management, quality, and lifecycle considerations.
- Support teams across the programme to adopt and implement the new standards.
Experience & Skills Required
- Strong background in data standards development, data governance, or data architecture within complex organisations.
- Experience working in or with UK Government or public-sector digital teams.
- Demonstrable expertise in data interoperability, especially in process-based or licensing-based services.
- Experience drafting standards suitable for submission to GDS Standards.
- Ability to analyse data models, map processes, and translate requirements into clear, structured standards.
- Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to explain complex topics to non-technical audiences.
- Strong stakeholder management and evidence of influencing senior decision-makers.
Data Standards Lead employer: Olive Jar Digital
Olive Jar Digital is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the heart of Westminster. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement, alongside a competitive salary and flexible hybrid working arrangements. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the public sector while enjoying the unique advantages of working in one of the UK's most vibrant locations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Standards Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your industry on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Data Standards Lead role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want you to be able to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around data standards and interoperability. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You should be able to clearly articulate your experience in data governance and standards development. We recommend rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you stand out. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and makes it easier for us to find your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Data Standards Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Data Standards Lead role. Highlight your experience in data standards development and governance, especially within public-sector teams. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves explaining complex topics to non-technical audiences, it’s crucial to demonstrate your communication prowess. Use clear language in your application and provide examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in the past.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to emphasise your background in data interoperability and your experience with UK Government or public-sector digital teams. We’re looking for specific examples that showcase your ability to analyse processes and develop clear data standards.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at Olive Jar Digital
✨Know Your Data Standards Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in data standards development and governance. Brush up on the specific standards relevant to licensing processes, as well as any recent changes in GDS Open Standards. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you’re ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working with cross-functional teams, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with service designers, developers, and policy specialists in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate complex topics clearly to non-technical audiences, as this will be crucial for engaging stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially around identifying gaps in current licensing processes. Think of specific instances where you’ve analysed datasets or developed standards, and be ready to discuss your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Engage with Governance Bodies
Familiarise yourself with the types of governance bodies you might present to, like GDS and departmental working groups. Prepare to discuss how you would approach stakeholder engagement and what strategies you’d use to influence senior decision-makers effectively.
