At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and analyse student data to ensure accurate reporting and compliance.
- Company: Robert Gordon University, a key player in Scotland's education landscape.
- Benefits: 46 days annual leave, remote work options, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a supportive team that values innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the quality and reputation of higher education.
- Qualifications: Experience with large datasets and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
Job Summary
Robert Gordon University (RGU) is widely recognised as a distinctive part of Aberdeen and Scotland\'s education landscape. Every one of our employees makes their own unique and equally important contribution to our success, at every level of our operation.
Do you have a keen eye for detail and a passion for turning complex data into meaningful insight? We\'re looking for a proactive and collaborative individual to join our team and take a leading role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and timely submission of our statutory student data returns.
In this role, you will be central to delivering the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) Student Record, HESA Aggregate Offshore Record, and Discover Uni Record Returns. Working closely with our Student Records Manager, you\'ll help shape and refine our internal processes to meet evolving statutory reporting requirements.
What you\'ll be doing:
- Managing and monitoring the quality of student data to ensure accurate reporting.
- Advising colleagues across the university on data requirements, providing guidance and training where needed.
- Developing and documenting internal processes, as well as creating user-friendly operational and guidance materials.
- Working with large datasets in systems such as SITS to extract, validate, and analyse information.
- Building strong working relationships with stakeholders to support the delivery of high-quality statutory returns.
What we\'re looking for:
- Experience of working with large datasets and databases, ideally a student record system such as SITS.
- Strong skills in data analysis, quality assurance, and reporting.
- The ability to produce clear, user-friendly operational and training materials.
- Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills, with the confidence to manage competing deadlines.
- A collaborative and proactive mindset, with the ability to influence and support colleagues at all levels.
Why join us?
This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a role that directly influences the quality and reputation of our institution. You\'ll gain exposure to high-profile statutory reporting, enhance your technical and analytical skills, and be part of a supportive team that values accuracy, innovation, and continuous improvement.
In keeping with RGU\'s commitment to work/life balance you will have the opportunity to work from home for a portion of the working week and also benefit from a generous pension scheme, 46 days annual leave (including statutory days) an onsite nursery and sports centre, as well as a range of voluntary health and travel benefits.
We are committed to attracting and engaging a diverse range of staff and fostering a culture where everyone feels welcome, comfortable to express their ideas, and can reach their full potential. For more information, please visit Our Diverse Workforce pages.
Interviews will take place on Wednesday 5 November.
Job Description
RESPONSIBLE TO: Student Records Manager
RESPONSIBLE FOR: No supervisory responsibility
PURPOSE OF POST: Responsible for ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and timely submission of student data for the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) Student Returns. The role requires meticulous data management, including audits and compliance checks, while aligning internal processes with statutory HESA reporting requirements. The role demands effective collaboration with key stakeholders and the ability to manage a diverse workload within strict deadlines
PRINCIPAL DUTIES:
- Responsible for the implementation of the operational processes for the production and submission of the statutory HESA Student Returns.
- Take the lead on the identification and delivery of a suite of audits/reports to support the ongoing production and maintenance of the statutory HESA Student Returns. Monitor data quality ensuring that the collection, processing and reporting of data is accurate. Complete regular audits to ensure the integrity of the data.
- Collaborate with the Student Records Manager to incorporate changes in HESA statutory reporting requirements into internal processes.
- Provide advice and guidance to system users in relation to data requirements for the HESA Student, Aggregate Offshore and Discover Uni Returns.
- Maintain and update documentation and guides related to HESA Student Returns processes.
- Ensure adherence to relevant legislation, such as Health and Safety, Equal Opportunities, SENDA, DDA, and Data Protection.
- Undertake any other duties as required which are consistent with the job purpose or as directed the Student Records Manager.
Person Specification
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
Qualifications and Professional Memberships
- A first Degree or equivalent experience
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong record keeping skills and a keen attention to detail.
- Proficient in interpreting and applying HESA Data Specifications.
- Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to meet strict deadlines
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Proven ability to manage work under pressure while adhering to established procedures.
- Strong IT literacy, with experience in administrative systems development.
- Demonstrated problem-solving skills and the ability to analyse complex data.
- Commitment to delivering high-quality customer service.
Experience
- Experience in analysing complex information and providing actionable insights.
- Experience in administrative systems development and implementation.
- Prior experience prioritising tasks in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Work experience within the higher education sector or a similar data-focused role.
- Systems development and implementation in an administrative context
DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS
Qualifications and Professional Memberships
- Membership of a relevant professional body e.g. AHEP, ARC
Knowledge & Skills
- Competent in the use of SITS Student Record Database.
- Significant knowledge of HESA Student Returns.
Experience
- Experience in compliance or quality assurance roles.
- Experience in preparing and presenting management information, both written and verbal.
- Experience of engaging with the wider context with an interest in government Data requirements and usage.
Behaviours
Behaviour 1: Communication - Ability to receive, understand and convey information requiring careful explanation and information of a complex or conceptual nature, in a clear and accurate manner.
Behaviour 2: Service Delivery - Experience of exploring and adapting a service to meet customer\'s expectations and also identifying ways of improving standards.
Behaviour 3: Analysis and Research - Experience of identifying or designing data gathering and analytical methods appropriate for each investigation, and producing reports that identify key issues and findings.
Behaviour 4: Decision Making - Experiences of using own judgement to make decisions, making collaborative decisions with others to reach conclusions and providing advice or information that will influence the decisions of others.
Behaviour 5: Initiative and Problem Solving - Experience of using initiative and creativity to resolve problems, identifying practical and suitable solutions.
Behaviour 6: Planning and Organising - Experience of planning, prioritising and organising your own work or resources to achieve agreed objectives.
Data & Reporting Specialist (HESA Student Returns) - RGU07651 employer: RGU
Robert Gordon University (RGU) is an exceptional employer that values the contributions of every employee, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture. With generous benefits such as 46 days of annual leave, a supportive environment for professional growth, and flexible working options, RGU is committed to ensuring a healthy work-life balance while empowering staff to excel in their roles. Join us in Aberdeen, where you can make a meaningful impact on the quality and reputation of our institution through your expertise in data management and reporting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data & Reporting Specialist (HESA Student Returns) - RGU07651
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Robert Gordon University on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the role and the team, plus it shows your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into HESA reporting requirements. Brush up on your data analysis skills and be ready to discuss how you’ve tackled similar challenges in the past. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your collaborative spirit! Think of examples where you’ve worked with others to improve processes or solve problems. This role is all about teamwork, so let that shine through in your discussions.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about joining the RGU family.
We think you need these skills to ace Data & Reporting Specialist (HESA Student Returns) - RGU07651
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Data & Reporting Specialist role. Highlight your experience with large datasets and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our team!
Show Off Your Attention to Detail:Since this role is all about accuracy and integrity in data management, be sure to showcase your keen eye for detail. Use specific examples from your past experiences where you ensured data quality or improved reporting processes. We love a good story!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate clarity, especially when it comes to complex data insights. Make it easy for us to see your potential!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fantastic team at RGU!
How to prepare for a job interview at RGU
✨Know Your Data
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of HESA data specifications and student record systems like SITS. Be ready to discuss how you've worked with large datasets in the past and how you ensure data accuracy and integrity.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves advising colleagues and creating user-friendly materials, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information in previous roles. Think about times when you trained others or simplified processes.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Be prepared to talk about how you manage competing deadlines and prioritise tasks. Share specific strategies you use to stay organised, especially in a fast-paced environment, as this will show your ability to handle the demands of the role.
✨Collaborative Mindset
This position requires working closely with various stakeholders. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others to achieve a common goal. Highlight your proactive approach and how you influence and support your team.
