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- Tasks: Lead the Data Architecture function and drive data-driven decision-making at UAL.
- Company: Join University of the Arts London, a world-leading creative university.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 34 days leave, generous pension, and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Shape the future of data strategy in a dynamic and creative environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in data architecture and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to drive cultural change and innovation across the university.
The predicted salary is between 60484 - 81571 £ per year.
Job Description
University of the Arts London (UAL) is a world-leading creative University for teaching and research in art, design, fashion, communication and performing arts. UAL is made up of six renowned colleges and hosts several centres and institutes that further the University’s mission and social purpose, through the students and ideas we send out into the world and the partnerships we build to achieve social, environmental, and economic progress.
Digital & Technology at UAL is on an exciting journey, transitioning from a ‘classic’ IT approach to a user-centred product approach to technology. We are investing in our people, and the processes enabled by digital, to evolve and transform the student and staff experience at UAL.
The Head of Data Architecture is a new senior leadership role within the Architecture and Data team, responsible for establishing and leading a new Data Architecture function within the Digital & Technology directorate. The Head of Data Architecture will play a critical role in delivering the university’s 2032 Strategy by enabling data-driven decision-making, enhancing analytics capabilities, and embedding a culture of data governance and stewardship.
You will be tasked with building a high-performing team and developing a robust operating model that supports the university’s strategic goals. This includes designing and implementing a comprehensive data governance framework, ensuring data quality, and creating secure, scalable data systems that support planning, performance, and innovation across UAL.
Working closely with senior leaders, academic colleges, and professional services, you will ensure that data is treated as a strategic asset; accessible, reliable, and aligned with institutional priorities. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives on driving cultural change, shaping enterprise-wide data strategies, and delivering impactful solutions in a complex environment.
Experience
- Proven experience in leading data architecture functions and driving enterprise-wide data strategies.
- Strong expertise in data modelling, data warehousing, data lakes, master data management, and analytics.
- Ability to evaluate and recommend new tools and platforms for data management and analytics.
- Familiarity with TOGAF, DAMA-DMBOK2, and architecture frameworks.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with colleagues at all levels of an organisation, whether non-technical or technical
- Ability to lead high-performing teams and drive strategic change.
UAL is a world-class University shaping the creative industries worldwide, with staff having access to a range of benefits, training and personal development to recognise and reward the contributions they make, as well as to encourage excellence, creativity and diversity, including:
- Competitive salary of £60,484 – £81,571 + Market Supplement per annum, dependant on experience
- 34 days annual leave plus public holidays
- Generous, defined benefit pension scheme
- Family-friendly policies, including 26 weeks of paid maternity or paternity leave
Please apply online via the application portal with your current CV (No cover letter required). Candidates who meet the criteria will be contacted for further discussion and to progress their application.
For more information on UAL and Digital & Technology, please visit the dedicated microsite here: https://web/ual
HAYS Technology have been retained by University of the Arts London to manage the search and recruitment of this role. For all enquiries, please contact Breanna Mahan at Hays Technology.
Head of Data Architecture employer: UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON
Contact Detail:
UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data Architecture
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those at UAL or similar institutions. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in data architecture and analytics. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your vision! Think about how you would approach building a data governance framework and enhancing analytics capabilities at UAL. This shows you’re not just a fit for the role, but also passionate about their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the UAL team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data Architecture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: When filling out your application, make sure to highlight your proven experience in leading data architecture functions. We want to see how you've driven enterprise-wide data strategies and what impact you've made in your previous roles.
Be Specific About Your Skills: Don’t just list your skills; give us the juicy details! Talk about your expertise in data modelling, data warehousing, and analytics. The more specific you are, the better we can understand how you fit into our vision.
Communicate Clearly: Remember, we’re looking for excellent communication skills. Make sure your application is clear and concise, showing us that you can effectively collaborate with both technical and non-technical colleagues.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team at UAL!
How to prepare for a job interview at UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON
✨Know Your Data Architecture Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in data modelling, data warehousing, and analytics. Brush up on TOGAF and DAMA-DMBOK2 frameworks, as these will likely come up in conversation. Being able to discuss your experience with these concepts confidently will show that you’re the right fit for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've built high-performing teams and driven strategic change in previous roles. UAL is looking for someone who can lead effectively, so be ready to share specific instances where your leadership made a significant impact.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Since you'll be collaborating with both technical and non-technical colleagues, practice explaining complex data concepts in simple terms. This will demonstrate your excellent communication skills and your ability to bridge gaps between different teams.
✨Align with UAL's Vision
Familiarise yourself with UAL’s 2032 Strategy and think about how your expertise can contribute to their goals. Be prepared to discuss how you can help embed a culture of data governance and stewardship within the university, showing that you understand their mission and values.
