At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of a scalable data platform for NHS hospitals.
- Company: Join a high-profile NHS Trust shaping the future of healthcare data.
- Benefits: Competitive day rate, hybrid working, and long-term contract opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on NHS data transformation and improve hospital operations.
- Qualifications: Must have NHS Acute experience and strong leadership in data architecture.
- Other info: Work on a nationally visible programme with excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
An NHS Trust is seeking an experienced Data Architect—though we will also consider an exceptional Head of Development or Head of Data—to play a pivotal role in the design and delivery of a scalable data platform that will model how hospitals operate. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a high-profile programme shaping the next generation of NHS data capability.
We are building a scalable Federated Data Platform (FDP)-style tool, and we need a senior data leader who can:
- Architect and oversee the development of a complex, enterprise-wide data platform
- Shape a tool that translates real-world hospital operations into a robust operationally aligned data product
- Identify, define, and embed best practice in data architecture and engineering
- Provide technical leadership across data modelling, governance, interoperability, and platform design
- Bring proven experience implementing a large-scale data platform within a complex environment
- Work closely with clinical, operational, and digital teams to ensure outputs are relevant and strategically aligned
This is a delivery-critical role with high visibility across the Trust and partner organisations.
Essential Experience
- Prior NHS Acute experience (strict requirement)
- Proven track record delivering or leading enterprise-level data platform implementations
- Deep understanding of hospital data flows, operational processes, and regulatory constraints
- Senior-level leadership experience across data, development, or architecture functions
- Ability to drive standards, set direction, and define architectural best practice
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across technical and non-technical groups
Desirable Experience
- Experience with Palantir Foundry, FDP components, or other large-scale analytical platforms
- Background in designing tools that mimic operational hospital behaviour
- Experience embedding governance, QA, validation rules, and interoperability standards
Contract Details
- Outside IR35
- Competitive day rate (DOE)
- Ongoing contract with long-term programme roadmap
- Hybrid working (onsite requirements may vary, expect 1 day per week)
- Opportunity to work on a high-impact, nationally visible data transformation programme
Please contact Sophie Peters at Seymour John via sophie@seymourjohn.com for further information, please only apply if you have strong NHS Acute experience.
Data Architect / Head of Data / Head of Development employer: Trades Workforce Solutions
Contact Detail:
Trades Workforce Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Data Architect / Head of Data / Head of Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the NHS or data field. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential employers and showcase your expertise. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the NHS Trust and their data initiatives. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience with enterprise-level data platforms and how you can contribute to their specific needs. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role and how your skills align with their goals. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! We’ve got resources and tips that can help you stand out. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
We think you need these skills to ace Data Architect / Head of Data / Head of Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in NHS Acute settings and your expertise in data architecture. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this high-profile programme. We love seeing passion and clarity, so make sure to connect your skills with the needs of the NHS Trust.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role requires senior-level leadership experience, be sure to highlight instances where you've led teams or projects. We want to know how you’ve driven standards and set direction in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trades Workforce Solutions
✨Know Your NHS Acute Experience
Make sure you can clearly articulate your prior NHS Acute experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've delivered or led enterprise-level data platform implementations in this environment. This will show that you understand the unique challenges and requirements of the NHS.
✨Demonstrate Technical Leadership
Be ready to discuss your experience in providing technical leadership across data architecture and engineering. Highlight instances where you've driven standards, set direction, and defined architectural best practices. This will showcase your ability to lead complex projects effectively.
✨Communicate with Clarity
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice explaining complex data concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to engage with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Use examples from your past to illustrate how you've successfully managed stakeholder relationships.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss how you've identified and solved problems in previous roles, especially related to data flows and operational processes. Think of specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your critical thinking and adaptability in a complex environment.