At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage Shell's reference data across Trading and Supply for accurate analytics.
- Company: Join Shell, a leader in energy transition and innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, competitive salary, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on data governance and support sustainability efforts.
- Qualifications: Experience in reference data management and data governance required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Reference Data lead is responsible for owning and managing Shell’s data sources of reference data across Trading and Supply. This role requires a strong background in master data management and ensures that reference data is accurate, consistent, and governed, forming the backbone for analytics, automation, and ETRM and reporting. This includes counterparty data, calendars/holidays, units of measure (UoM), and settlement details.
By defining data contracts, stewarding lineage, and embedding governance practices, this role enables interoperability across platforms like Data.Shell, reduces duplication, and supports regulatory compliance. Acting as a trusted partner to Risk, Finance, Front Office, and IDT, the Reference Data lead drives adoption of a single source of truth and fosters a culture of data stewardship and ownership.
Key Responsibilities
- Reference Data Strategy
- Develop and maintain a unified reference data strategy aligned with Trading and Supply priorities.
- Own golden sources for key reference data domains (counterparty, calendars/holidays, UoM, settlements).
- Define and enforce data contracts, lineage, and stewardship practices.
- Enable Consistency & Integration
- Ensure all business units—especially ADA and ASPIRE projects—operate from a single, trusted source of reference data.
- Integrate reference data with TED and Data.Shell platforms to enable interoperability and governance.
- Business Enablement & Adoption
- Partner with business, Data governance team, Risk, Finance, Front Office, and IDT to ensure adoption and compliance with reference data standards.
- Support ADA and ASPIRE projects by providing accurate, accessible, and governed reference data for analytics and automation.
- Data Quality & Control
- Establish and monitor data quality metrics for reference data domains.
- Drive continuous improvement to eliminate duplication and reduce reconciliation efforts.
- Governance & Oversight
- Work with the Head of Data Governance to set up a Reference Data Council for oversight and alignment.
- Ensure reference data practices support regulatory compliance and auditability.
Key Benefits of the Role
- Improved data quality and trust across business processes.
- Faster onboarding of new data-driven initiatives.
- Simplified integration and reporting.
- Stronger data governance and stewardship.
What you bring
- Strong understanding of reference data management in trading environments.
- Experience in data governance, lineage, and data contracts.
- Familiarity with enterprise data platforms, master data management, and governance tools (e.g., Unity Catalog, Collibra, Informatica).
- Ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive adoption of standards.
- Ability to translate and communicate complex requirements, with a strong understanding of how critical data underpins business processes.
- Exposure to regulatory requirements and audit processes.
- Exposure to Generative AI and Agentic AI tools and processes a plus.
What we offer
- Flexible working hours, and the possibility of remote/mobile working.
- Competitive starting salary and annual performance related salary increase.
- Paid parental leave, including for non-birthing parents.
- Access to a wide range of training and development programmes.
Shell is working to advance an inclusive, psychologically safe and accessible environment where people with disabilities can excel. If you require any accommodations or accessibility adjustments during the application or interview process, please let us know directly via careers@shell.com.
Reference Data Lead employer: Shell
At Shell, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values integrity, respect, and collaboration. As a Reference Data Lead in the UK, you will have the opportunity to work with talented professionals on critical energy transition challenges while enjoying flexible working arrangements and a competitive salary package. We are committed to your personal and professional growth, providing access to diverse career opportunities and comprehensive training programmes in a supportive and inclusive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reference Data Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those already working at Shell. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of reference data management and governance tools. Show us you know your stuff and can talk the talk!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've driven data quality and governance in past roles. We love hearing about real-life experiences!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Reference Data Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Reference Data Lead role. Highlight your experience in master data management and data governance, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills and how they align with what we’re looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about reference data management and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it concise but impactful, and don’t forget to mention how you can contribute to our goals.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We love seeing candidates who are familiar with enterprise data platforms and governance tools. Make sure to list any relevant software or tools you’ve worked with, like Unity Catalog or Collibra, and explain how you’ve used them in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply 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 serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shell
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of reference data management, especially in trading environments. Brush up on key concepts like data contracts, lineage, and governance tools. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're the right fit for the role.
✨Showcase Your Cross-Functional Skills
This role requires collaboration with various teams like Risk, Finance, and Front Office. Prepare examples of how you've influenced cross-functional teams in the past. Highlight your ability to drive adoption of standards and how you’ve communicated complex requirements effectively.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Be ready to discuss how you've tackled data quality issues or improved data governance in previous roles. Use specific examples to illustrate your approach to eliminating duplication and enhancing data accuracy. This will demonstrate your proactive mindset.
✨Align with Company Values
Familiarise yourself with Shell's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs. Showing that you resonate with their culture can set you apart from other candidates.
