At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of a unified data strategy for the University.
- Company: Join a prestigious university shaping the future with data-driven decisions.
- Benefits: Generous pension, 29 days leave, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the University’s vision through innovative data solutions.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading data functions and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team. This is a key leadership role shaping how the University uses data to support decision-making, performance and strategy. You will play a central role in delivering the University’s Manchester 2035 vision by strengthening our data foundations and enabling consistent insight, advanced analytics, AI and automation across teaching, research and operations.
Working across faculties, research, teaching and professional services, you will lead the development of a unified, trusted view of institutional data. You will establish and lead a new enterprise Data Hub, ensuring data is well-governed, secure, reusable and supports both strategic decision-making and regulatory assurance.
You will be responsible for:
- Leading the design, delivery and operation of the University’s enterprise Data Hub, creating a single, authoritative foundation for institutional data.
- Establishing clear ownership, governance and accountability for institutional data, acting as the University’s authority on how core data is defined, managed and shared.
- Ensuring institutional data supports high‑quality insight, reporting, regulatory and statutory requirements, including external assurance expectations.
- Building and leading a high‑performing, multidisciplinary team spanning data architecture, governance and engineering.
- Working in partnership with academic, professional services and IT leaders to embed a consistent, collaborative approach to data ownership and use across the University.
About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:
Essential Criteria
- Significant experience leading enterprise‑scale data, analytics or information functions in a complex organisation.
- Strong understanding of data governance, data quality, master data management and enterprise data architecture.
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and establish standards and governance across organisational boundaries.
- Experience of leading teams and delivering through others in a collaborative environment.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex data concepts into clear decisions and priorities.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience in higher education or a similarly complex, regulated environment.
- Familiarity with regulatory assurance, audit or statutory reporting requirements.
- Experience enabling data platforms that support analytics, AI or automation.
- Experience of driving cultural change to improve data literacy and adoption.
- Knowledge of modern data platforms, integration patterns or data engineering practices.
We value transferable skills and real‑world experience as much as formal qualifications.
Our benefits include:
- Generous employer contribution pension.
- 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure.
- Ride to work and EV car scheme available.
This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK. Applications close at midnight on the closing date.
Associate Director – Institutional Data in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
As an Associate Director – Institutional Data at our esteemed University, you will be part of a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. We offer generous benefits including a substantial employer pension contribution, 29 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, and opportunities for professional growth within a supportive environment dedicated to advancing the Manchester 2035 vision. Join us in shaping the future of data governance and analytics while enjoying a fulfilling career in higher education.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
