Data Lead

Data Lead

Sunderland Temporary No home office possible
S

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the data strategy for government services impacting 18m citizens.
  • Company: Join a dynamic team focused on enhancing public sector data capabilities.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work options and competitive pay rates.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the public sector while shaping data strategies.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in data leadership with expertise in cloud platforms and governance.
  • Other info: Contract role with potential for extension; security clearance required.

We’re seeking a seasoned Data Lead to own and deliver the data strategy for a government client that uses services used by over 18 million citizens encompassing three newly rebuilt benefits systems. You will define where our data capabilities are today, set the future vision, and architect the roadmap to get us there—then design the data team to execute it.

Key Responsibilities
  • Data Strategy & Governance
    • Lead the end-to-end Data Strategy for Bereavement & Care services.
    • Map the “as-is” and “to-be” state of our data platforms and pipelines.
    • Develop a 3-month strategic roadmap aligned with the wider Government Data Strategy.
    • Define and embed organisational policies, standards and guidelines for secure, scalable data services.
  • Technical Leadership & Architecture
    • Select and evolve data engineering methods, tools and techniques.
    • Ensure adherence to agreed technical strategies and architectures.
    • Plan and drive delivery of complex data engineering programmes across multiple systems.
    • Balance functional and non-functional requirements when designing data solutions.
  • Team Design & Delivery
    • Define the optimal data team structure (roles, skills, capacity) to deliver the strategy.
    • Design and chair multi-functional delivery teams, mentoring engineers, scientists and analysts.
    • Partner with our delivery provider to onboard specialist roles per your recommendations.
    • Oversee implementation of new data platforms, ETL pipelines, and analytical models.
  • Standards, Compliance & Quality
    • Monitor application of data standards, governance frameworks and security controls.
    • Embed strong data quality, lineage and protection practices across all systems.
    • Contribute to and enforce enterprise-wide data engineering policies and compliance.
Required Experience & Skills
  • Data Leadership: ≥ 10 years across data engineering, data science or analytics; proven track record setting/executing data strategies in complex organisations.
  • Technical Breadth:
    • Cloud-based data platforms AWS must (Azure, AWS or equivalent)
    • Modern ETL/ELT tools and data pipeline frameworks
    • Data modelling, warehousing and transformation best practices
    • Data science/ML lifecycle from prototype to production
  • Government/Public Sector: Experience to GDS-equivalent standards; strong grasp of GDPR, FOI and public-sector procurement.
  • Communication & Stakeholder Management: Able to translate technical concepts for non-tech executives; excellent leadership, mentoring and team-building skills.
Tech Stack
  • Performance Analytics: Google Analytics, Google BigQuery, Google Looker Studio, Google Tag Manager
Desirable
  • Domain experience in benefits or civic services (e.g. public sector).
  • Previous contracting under SIFA or similar public-sector frameworks.
  • Security clearance (BPSS, SC or DV) or willingness to obtain.
Contract Details
  • Rate: 600-650 inside IR35
  • Duration: 3 months (potential extension)
  • Security Clearance: BPSS minimum; higher clearance if required
How to Apply

Send your CV and a brief cover note highlighting relevant experience to recruitment@scrumconnect.com

Data Lead employer: Scrumconnect Consulting

As a Data Lead with us, you'll join a forward-thinking organisation that values innovation and collaboration, situated in the vibrant cities of London and Newcastle. We offer a hybrid work model that promotes flexibility, alongside a supportive culture that prioritises employee growth through mentorship and professional development opportunities. With a focus on impactful projects that serve over 18 million citizens, you will find meaningful work that not only enhances your career but also contributes to the greater good.
S

Contact Detail:

Scrumconnect Consulting Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Data Lead

Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the data field, especially those who have experience in public sector projects. Attend industry meetups or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about their experiences at organisations similar to ours.

Tip Number 2

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in data governance and strategy, particularly within the public sector. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.

Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led data teams and implemented strategies in previous roles. Highlight your ability to mentor and build teams, as this is a key aspect of the Data Lead position.

Tip Number 4

Research our company culture and values to align your approach with what we stand for. Understanding our mission will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your vision for data strategy fits with our goals.

We think you need these skills to ace Data Lead

Data Strategy Development
Data Governance
Data Engineering
Cloud-based Data Platforms (AWS, Azure)
ETL/ELT Tools and Frameworks
Data Modelling and Warehousing
Data Transformation Best Practices
Data Science and Machine Learning Lifecycle
Stakeholder Management
Technical Leadership
Team Design and Delivery
Communication Skills
Mentoring and Coaching
Compliance with GDPR and FOI
Performance Analytics Tools (Google Analytics, BigQuery, Looker Studio)

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in data leadership, particularly in complex organisations. Emphasise your track record in setting and executing data strategies, as well as your technical skills with cloud-based platforms like AWS.

Craft a Compelling Cover Note: In your cover note, succinctly summarise your relevant experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the Data Lead role. Mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead data strategy and governance.

Showcase Technical Expertise: Detail your familiarity with modern ETL/ELT tools and data pipeline frameworks. Highlight any experience you have with data modelling, warehousing, and transformation best practices, as well as your understanding of the data science lifecycle.

Demonstrate Communication Skills: Since the role requires translating technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders, include examples in your application that showcase your communication and stakeholder management skills. This could be through previous roles where you led teams or mentored others.

How to prepare for a job interview at Scrumconnect Consulting

Showcase Your Data Leadership Experience

Make sure to highlight your extensive experience in data leadership, particularly your track record in setting and executing data strategies. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully led data initiatives in complex organisations.

Demonstrate Technical Proficiency

Familiarise yourself with the technical stack mentioned in the job description, especially cloud-based platforms like AWS. Be ready to discuss your experience with modern ETL/ELT tools and how you've applied data modelling and transformation best practices in previous roles.

Communicate Clearly with Non-Technical Stakeholders

Since the role requires translating technical concepts for non-tech executives, practice explaining complex data strategies in simple terms. This will showcase your communication skills and ability to engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.

Prepare for Governance and Compliance Questions

Given the importance of data governance and compliance in this role, be prepared to discuss your understanding of GDPR, FOI, and public-sector procurement. Share any relevant experiences where you ensured adherence to data standards and security controls.

S
Similar positions in other companies
UK’s top job board for Gen Z
discover-jobs-cta
Discover now
>