At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of a new Business Intelligence function and shape data accessibility.
- Company: Join NatCen, the UK's largest independent social research organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible working, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving data-driven decision-making across the organisation.
- Qualifications: Strong Power BI experience and leadership in complex BI environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Position: Head of Business Intelligence
Application Deadline: 4 June 2026
Department: Social Surveys
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: London (Hybrid)
Reporting To: Alexia Bencini
Role Overview
NatCen is building a modern, cloud-based data and reporting capability and is looking for a Head of Business Intelligence to lead the next phase of that journey. This is a newly created role with real scope to shape how business intelligence works across the organisation from the ground up. You will help NatCen move from an environment where data can feel hard to access and reporting can be inconsistent, to one where information is trusted, usable and easier to consume for decision-making. This role is central to building a more data-driven culture across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Own and evolve NatCen's BI roadmap so reporting priorities are clear, realistic and aligned to organisational value.
- Build trusted BI foundations by establishing governance, definitions, metrics and reporting standards that teams can use consistently.
- Work closely with stakeholders to understand what they really need from data and reporting, rather than simply delivering what has been requested.
- Partner with data engineering colleagues so BI needs are well served as the Databricks-based platform develops.
- Shape reporting layers and Power BI outputs that make information accessible to non-technical users.
- Lead the shift towards stronger BI adoption, better data literacy and more confident data-driven decision-making across NatCen.
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
- Strong hands-on Power BI experience, including dashboards, data models and user-facing reporting.
- Significant experience leading or managing Business Intelligence or organisational reporting in a complex environment.
- Experience with modern cloud data platforms such as Databricks, Azure or SQL-based analytics.
- Experience establishing reporting standards, definitions and light-touch data governance.
- Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work confidently across Finance, Field, Research, Data Services and senior leadership.
- A pragmatic and commercially aware approach, balancing quick delivery with longer-term foundations.
- Experience improving BI adoption and helping organisations become more data-led.
Job Benefits
As well as a competitive salary, attractive bonus structure and excellent working environment (including a home/office hybrid working environment), you will be working for the largest independent social research organisation in the UK. We are proud of the benefits we offer our employees which include:
- 25 days holiday (plus 8 bank holidays) increasing to 30 days with 3 years service and flexible working
- Generous company pension scheme
- Life insurance and health cash plan
- Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loan
- Career development, professional subscriptions support and mentoring support from industry-leading experts
EEO Statement
We are proud to say we are a Disability Confident Committed Employer, so if you require any reasonable adjustments during the interview process please make us aware and we will endeavour to support you to help you showcase your best self during our hiring process.
Head of BI & Data Strategy – Hybrid London employer: the National Centre for Social Research
NatCen is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment in London, where you can lead the development of a cutting-edge Business Intelligence function. With a strong focus on employee growth, competitive benefits including generous holiday allowances, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional development, NatCen fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in social research.
Contact Details:
the National Centre for Social Research Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of BI & Data Strategy – Hybrid London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your industry on LinkedIn or at events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its culture, and think about how your skills can help them achieve their goals. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your expertise! Bring examples of your work or case studies to the interview. This will help us see how you can make an impact in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! A quick thank-you email after your interview can keep you fresh in our minds and show your enthusiasm for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of BI & Data Strategy – Hybrid London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with Power BI and data strategy. We want to see how your skills align with our mission to build a data-driven culture at NatCen.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role is all about leading the BI function, don’t forget to mention any previous experience you have in managing teams or projects. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and guide others in their data journey.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language to explain your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Head of BI & Data Strategy role. We appreciate brevity and clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape our BI function from the ground up.
How to prepare for a job interview at the National Centre for Social Research
✨Know Your BI Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your Power BI skills and be ready to discuss your hands-on experience. Prepare examples of dashboards you've created or data models you've built, as this role is all about leading a new BI function.
✨Understand the Company’s Data Needs
Research NatCen's current data landscape and think about how you can help them transition to a more data-driven culture. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach understanding stakeholder needs beyond just delivering what's asked.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves building a BI team from scratch, so highlight your experience in leading teams and managing complex reporting environments. Share specific examples of how you've successfully implemented governance and standards in previous roles.
✨Be Ready for Stakeholder Management Questions
Expect questions about how you would engage with various stakeholders across Finance, Field, and Research. Think of scenarios where you've successfully navigated differing priorities and how you ensured everyone was aligned on BI goals.
