At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data strategy and performance reporting to drive impactful insights.
- Company: Community-focused housing association dedicated to thriving communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Join a values-led organisation committed to equality and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community through data-driven decision making.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in data/BI leadership and strong stakeholder influence.
The predicted salary is between 62832 - 62832 £ per year.
Location: Didsbury, Manchester
Salary: £62,832
Contract: Full-Time Permanent
Hours: 35 hours per week
About Us
Southway owns over 6,500 homes in Greater Manchester and is a community-focused housing association with a vision to provide excellent customer service and quality homes, where communities thrive. Southway strives for continuous improvement led by customers, communities and colleagues. It is a member of the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter and is guided by its REACH values of Respect, Equity, Ambition, Compassion and Honesty. Southway Housing Trust is a not for profit housing association with a vision of Thriving Communities.
About the role
We are looking for a Strategic Lead for Data and Insight to lead our business intelligence, insight and performance reporting. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Technology & Business Improvement, you will set the data and BI roadmap, strengthen governance and deliver a single source of truth for Executive, Board and regulatory reporting.
Key responsibilities
- Set and deliver the organisation wide data & BI roadmap (priorities, investment and benefits).
- Embed strong data governance (ownership, standards, assurance) aligned to GDPR and security.
- Own performance reporting: KPIs/TSMs, insight cycles, forums and data clinics.
- Lead Power BI strategy and oversee delivery of our modern data platform (including Microsoft Fabric).
- Develop the Data & BI team and manage organisational data risk.
About you
You will bring:
- Senior experience leading a data/BI/analytics function in a complex or regulated environment.
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and turn data into clear, actionable insight.
- Strong grasp of data governance and assurance.
- Confident leader who can challenge constructively and deliver change.
Experience in social housing, local government or similarly regulated sectors is desirable but not essential.
What we offer
- Competitive salary
- 35 hour working week
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- Generous pension scheme
- Up to 30 days annual leave, with the option to purchase up to 5 additional days.
- Modern office and facilities
- A supportive, values led organisation committed to equality, inclusion and wellbeing.
How to apply
Please apply online via our website: southwayhousing.co.uk
Closing date: Thursday 5 June 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 15 June 2026
If you have any questions, please contact Ian Hardingham, Assistant Director of Technology & Business Improvement & ICT at Southway Housing Trust is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Applicants with a disability, from an ethnic minority background or who are ex armed forces and meet the essential criteria will be guaranteed an interview if they tell us on their application.
Strictly no agencies.
We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from suitably skilled people from all sectors of the community. All applicants who have a disability or are ex armed forces that meet the minimum essential criteria for the post will be invited to interview. If you have a disability or are ex armed forces, please tell us about this on your application form and please let us know about any special arrangements you would like us to make if you are invited in for an interview.
Strategic Lead for Data Insight in Manchester employer: Southway Housing Trust
Contact Detail:
Southway Housing Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Lead for Data Insight in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their mission and how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience makes you the perfect fit for the Strategic Lead for Data Insight role. Keep it concise and focus on the impact you've made in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our community-focused team at Southway.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Lead for Data Insight in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Strategic Lead for Data Insight. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've led data initiatives or improved performance reporting in previous roles. We love seeing tangible results that demonstrate your impact!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value honesty and compassion, so don’t hesitate to share your motivations for wanting to join Southway and how you align with our REACH values.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southway Housing Trust
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
As a Strategic Lead for Data Insight, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in data governance and BI strategies. Brush up on the latest trends in data analytics and be ready to discuss how you can implement these at Southway. Prepare examples of how you've turned data into actionable insights in previous roles.
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Southway is all about Respect, Equity, Ambition, Compassion, and Honesty. Make sure you can relate your experiences and leadership style to these values. Think of specific instances where you’ve embodied these principles in your work, especially in a regulated environment.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
You’ll be influencing senior stakeholders, so practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you’ve successfully navigated complex stakeholder landscapes in the past. Consider role-playing with a friend to refine your approach.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a confident leader, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to challenge constructively. Prepare to share examples of how you’ve led teams through change and developed talent within your organisation. Highlight your experience in managing data risks and ensuring compliance with GDPR.