Chief Digital & Data Officer in Paisley

About the job

As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, the Chief Digital & Data Officer (CDDO) leads the development and delivery of SLC’s digital and data strategies. The role includes delivering a digital-first channel strategy, increasing self-service and digital containment, and embedding a data and insight-driven approach to service design, operational optimisation, and performance improvement.

The opportunity can be based in Glasgow, Darlington or Llandudno (regular travel to the Glasgow office will be required for those based elsewhere).

About Our Client

Harvey Nash is delighted to be partnering with the Student Loans Company (SLC), to bring an exciting new C- level opportunity to the market. We are looking to appoint SLC’s newly created position for a Chief Digital & Data Officer (CDDO) – a strategic hire which will enable their business ambition to become a simpler, modern, digital organisation.

Student Loans Company are a non-profit making government-owned organisation that administers loans and grants to students in colleges and universities in the UK.

The Student Loans mission is to enable people to invest in their futures through further and higher education by providing trusted, transparent, flexible, and accessible student finance services.

NB Full details about this opportunity can be found in our candidate briefing pack upon application.

A summary of the key responsibilities and experience required for this role are outline in the following sections:

Overview of the CDDO’s responsibilities

• Lead and deliver SLC’s digital and data strategies in line with government and corporate goals.
• Oversee resilient, scalable, user-centred digital platforms that support transformation and customer experience.
• Drive continuous improvement of inclusive, accessible digital services using agile methods and user feedback.
• Lead multi-disciplinary teams to optimise services and enhance digital self-service.
• Own and implement the data strategy, ensuring governance, quality, and innovation.
• Treat data as a strategic asset to drive insight and service improvement.
• Build strong relationships with government stakeholders and champion cross-government digital initiatives.
• Build a high-performing, innovative digital and data function.

Essential Skills & Experience Required

• Extensive experience in a Senior leadership role, specifically focused on digital, data, and technology.
• A background of delivering Digital and Data change within complex, large scale organisations.
• Experience managing large teams in excess of 100, significant budgets in excess of £10 million and third-party suppliers.
• Strong background in user-centred design, agile delivery, and digital best practice.
• Skilled in modern digital platforms and driving transformation at scale.
• Proven ability to lead data strategy, governance, and ethical data use.
• Excellent communicator and influencer, including at board level.

Remuneration Package

• Up to £145k basic salary
• Civil Service Pension Scheme: Civil Service Pensions / Home – Civil Service Pension Scheme
• Flexible and Hybrid working options
• 28 annual leave plus 8 days public holidays
• Lifestyle benefits
• Full Benefits are available for review in our candidate pack

SLC are committed to ensuring all recruitment processes are inclusive for all candidates and will make reasonable adjustments for those who consider themselves to have a disability or long-term condition in line with the Equality Act 2010.

Please note the closing date for last applications is 27th November 2025.