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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Director of Data & Assurance - **Company:** GatenbySanderson - **Location:** Merthyr Tydfil, UK (Remote available) - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** £82,089.0 - £99,500.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Information Management, Prism (Software), Information Technology - **Published:** August 5, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.gatenbysanderson.com/job/GSe135171/Director-of-Data-and-Assurance ## About the Role We're seeking an experienced executive leader with a strong background in data, digital, research, assurance or analytical environments and a proven track record of leading complex functions within safety-critical, regulatory, technical or infrastructure settings., * A degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. Data Science, Information Management, Computer Science, Geospatial Analysis, Engineering, Environmental Science, Programme Management or a related field) or significant equivalent professional experience. * Significant experience leading data, digital, research or assurance functions. * Experience managing complex information systems, evidence bases or technical programmes. * A track record of driving organisational improvement through evidence-based decision-making. * Experience working with Boards, Government and senior stakeholders. * Strong leadership, influencing and communication skills. * A commitment to collaboration, continuous improvement and public service. * Chartered status or membership of a relevant professional body (for example data, digital, technology, information, engineering or geospatial disciplines) is desirable., 1. To hold or be working towards Chartered status or membership of a relevant professional body. Particularly within data, digital, information management, technology, engineering, geospatial or analytical disciplines., 3 - Welsh language skills are not essential for this opportunity; you do not need Welsh language skills to apply. However, as the Welsh Government is a bilingual organisation, Welsh language skills are desirable and will be considered if two or more candidates receive the same score at the application or interview stage. Understanding by reading 1 - Can read some basic words and phrases with understanding Speaking and being understood 1 - Can hold a basic conversation in Welsh Understanding by listening 1 - Can understand parts of a basic conversation Writing and being understood 1 - Can write basic messages on everyday topics, We'll assess you against the following Experience criteria during the assessment process., Communication & Strategic Judgement * Communicating complex technical, digital or analytical information clearly and confidently. * Making balanced, proportionate and evidence-based decisions in situations involving uncertainty, risk or public scrutiny. ## Description The Disused Tips Authority is being established under the Disused Mine and Quarry Tips (Wales) Act 2025 to provide national leadership for the safety, management and regulation of disused tips. As Wales' new national regulator, the Authority will deliver a consistent, evidence-led and risk-based approach to managing disused tip risk and helping to protect communities across Wales. Within this context, the Director of Data & Assurance plays a pivotal executive leadership role in ensuring that the Authority understands risk clearly, acts on evidence confidently, and demonstrates that risks are being actively managed across Wales. This role is fundamental to creating an organisation where: * The national risk position is clearly understood and communicated * Data is accurate, trusted and informs all decision-making * Technology enables effective monitoring and insight * Management Plans and maintenance programmes are effectively developed and delivered * The organisation operates as a recognised centre of excellence in data, evidence and technical leadership As a member of the Executive Team, the postholder plays a critical role in shaping organisational confidence, supporting evidence-based decision-making and reinforcing a culture of accuracy, transparency and continuous learning. For further information about the organisation, please see: Help build a new public body for Wales: Disused Tips Authority for Wales For full details of the role, the assessment process, and guidance on what to expect at each stage of selection, please refer to the Candidate Information Pack available at: Director of Data & Assurance Candidate Information Pack - 2026 Recruitment Campaign Key tasks As Director of Data & Assurance, you will provide executive leadership for the Authority's data, digital, research, standards and assurance functions, ensuring that the organisation has the evidence, intelligence and technical capability required to manage risk effectively and fulfil its statutory responsibilities. As one of the Authority's founding Executive Directors, you will play a leading role in establishing a new national regulator, shaping both the organisation and the systems that support decision-making, public confidence and long-term resilience across Wales. You will: * Lead the development and management of the Authority's national register, data systems and information assets. * Ensure Wales has a clear, accurate and evidence-based understanding of disused tip risk. * Provide strategic leadership for digital innovation, research, standards and technical assurance. * Oversee the development of management plans and maintenance programmes, ensuring they are informed by risk and evidence. * Provide assurance to the Chief Executive, Board and Welsh Government regarding the Authority's understanding and management of risk. You will help create a trusted, evidence-led and high-performing public body that provides confidence that disused tip risks across Wales are understood, monitored and managed effectively., For full details of the role, the assessment process, and guidance on what to expect at each stage of selection, please refer to the Candidate Information Pack available at: Disused Tips Authority for Wales | Candidate Information Pack | 2026 Recruitment Campaign Development opportunities This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help establish a new national public body and leave a lasting legacy for the people of Wales. As a founding Executive Director, you will have the opportunity to: * Shape a new organisation from the ground up, influencing its strategy, culture, governance and operating model. * Lead a nationally significant data, assurance and intelligence function, providing the evidence, insight and confidence required to support risk management and decision-making across Wales. * Work at the highest levels of public service, engaging directly with the Chief Executive, Board, Ministers, Welsh Government and key stakeholders. * Influence how Wales understands, monitors and manages risk, helping to establish a modern, evidence-led and innovative approach to disused tip management. * Develop your executive leadership capability, gaining experience of organisational growth, transformation and system-wide leadership. * Build a lasting legacy, creating an organisation that will protect communities and critical infrastructure for generations to come. Other vacancy related information Establishing the Disused Tips Authority The Disused Tips Authority (DTA) will become fully operational on 1 April 2027. We are recruiting now for a number of senior leadership roles to help shape the organisation, build its capability and culture, and prepare the Authority to assume its statutory responsibilities from day one.This is a unique opportunity to join the DTA during its formative stages and play a key role in establishing a new public body for Wales. Important: The Disused Tips Authority is a separate organisation from the Welsh Government. Please disregard any Welsh Government guidance, policies, or recruitment information linked within this advert and refer to the accompanying Candidate Information Pack for the information relevant to this vacancy. Employment Arrangements As the Disused Tip Authority will not formally exist until 1 April 2027, these roles will initially be hosted by the Welsh Government.Successful candidates will be employed by the Welsh Government until 31 March 2027 while working exclusively on the establishment of the Disused Tip Authority. From 1 April 2027, employees will transfer to the new Authority as it becomes operational.Throughout this transition, continuity of employment will be maintained. Successful candidates will initially be employed on Welsh Government terms and conditions. The DTA's proposed terms and conditions are included within the Candidate Pack, and employees will have the opportunity to move onto these arrangements following the Authority's establishment. Secondment Opportunities and Eligibility Requirements Candidates should note that this post is also being offered as a Permanent Opportunity and a Secondment opportunity. If you would like to apply via a Secondment the below eligibility guidance, will apply. Eligibility Verification: All Secondment Applications will be assessed against the below stated criteria. * You must obtain prior agreement from your employer to be released on secondment before applying. Please ensure you have line management approval. * You must hold a substantive permanent post with your current employer. * During the secondment, you will remain on the terms, conditions, and payroll of your home organisation. * Inward secondees are not eligible for Disused Tips Authority pay awards or rewards. Location The Authority's headquarters will be located at Rhydycar Business Park, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1UZ. This will be the principal place of work and where most colleagues will come together to collaborate with one another and with stakeholders. The successful candidate will be expected to attend the office in Merthyr Tydfil regularly to support collaboration and stakeholder engagement. Assessment Our assessment process is designed to evaluate candidates against three core areas: technical capability, values and leadership. Stage 1 - Leadership and Technical capability to be tested via CV and Leadership Statement Stage 2 - Leadership, Technical Capability and Our Values to be tested via interview (including a presentation, psychometric testing and an informal conversation with board member) Please refer to the candidate pack for further detail. In the event of a large number of applications, an initial sift will be conducted against the lead assessment criterion: Leadership Expectations. Candidates who pass the initial sift may be progressed to a full sift or progressed straight to assessment/interview. Reserve List A reserve list may be held for these opportunities.Candidates offered reserve status will remain on the reserve list until the Disused Tips Authority is established in April 2027. Those placed on the reserve list will only be considered for opportunities within the Disused Tips Authority and will not be considered for Welsh Government vacancies., * Lead with Integrity and Purpose - Provide clarity, act with honesty and build trust through consistent, values-led leadership. * Put People First - Create an inclusive environment where people feel valued, supported and able to contribute their best. * Collaborate for Impact - Build strong relationships across organisational, professional and sector boundaries to deliver shared outcomes. * Drive Excellence and Innovation - Promote learning, embrace innovation and use evidence to continually improve organisational performance. * Take Ownership and Deliver - Lead with confidence, take responsibility and ensure that plans are translated into meaningful outcomes. * Think Strategically and Act Decisively - Balance evidence, risk and organisational priorities to make informed decisions that support public confidence and long-term success., * Developing and maintaining trusted information systems, datasets, registers or assurance frameworks. * Providing confidence in the quality, accuracy and integrity of information used to inform decision-making. This will be tested at stage 1: Application Form This will be tested at stage 2: Interview Technical 3 Digital Innovation & Technical Leadership * Leading the development and application of digital, technological or innovative solutions to improve organisational capability and outcomes. * Promoting the effective use of technology, data and emerging approaches to support monitoring, analysis and risk management. This will be tested at stage 1: Application Form This will be tested at stage 2: Interview Technical 4: Research, Standards & Continuous Improvement * Leading the development and application of research, technical standards or evidence-based approaches. * Translating complex technical information into practical solutions that improve performance, consistency and organisational learning. This will be tested at stage 1: Application Form This will be tested at stage 2: Interview Technical 5: Evidence-Led Planning & Asset Intelligence * Overseeing complex programmes, long-term planning or asset management activities. * Ensuring resources, interventions and priorities are aligned to evidence, risk and organisational objectives. This will be tested at stage 1: Application Form This will be tested at stage 2: Interview Technical 6: Executive Leadership & Corporate Contribution * Providing strategic advice, assurance and evidence-based recommendations to Boards, Ministers or senior stakeholders. * Working effectively as part of an Executive Team to deliver organisational priorities and public value. This will be tested at stage 1: Application Form This will be tested at stage 2: Interview Technical 7: Partnership & System Leadership * Building trusted relationships with Government, regulators, technical specialists, academic institutions and delivery partners. * Working collaboratively across organisational boundaries to achieve shared outcomes and strengthen organisational capability., This relationship is underpinned by a partnership agreement. This sets out how our unions work with Welsh Government on issues such as: * Pay * Terms and conditions * HR Strategy, policies and procedures * Health, safety and well-being * Organisational change Our Welsh Government trade union colleagues work together to give their members a real say in the workplace. They make sure that the interests of their members are promoted and protected. They also help reduce inequalities and improve terms and conditions. The Welsh Government has an excellent track record of working in partnership with its trade unions. We support you to join a recognised trade union, to ensure your voice is heard in the workplace. We encourage you to learn more about our trade unions, partnership working and to get involved in their work., You should check your Application Centre regularly for updates to your application. Please also check your spam/junk folder in case any communication regarding your application and/or assessment details finds its way there., (b) copies of your CV, job application, a covering letter and supporting statements; and / or (c) suitable references from your employer or other third party referees. 3.3 We may also collect information on an ongoing basis about what pages you access or visit on the Websites and information about your use of the Websites including, for example, the job vacancies, sectors and locations you have viewed and any changes you make to information you supply to us, including by use of cookies (please see our Cookies Policy, set out in paragraph 9, below). Sensitive personal information 3.4 In order to provide you with our Services we may also need to collect personal data which the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA 2018) and the UK GDPR regards as sensitive or special categories of personal data, such as information relating to your racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, physical or mental health or sexual orientation (Background Information) and/or information relating to any criminal convictions you have or offences you may have committed (Criminal Records Information) (Background Information and Criminal Records Information, together, being Sensitive Data). 3.5 By completing our equal opportunities form (Equal Opportunities Form) which forms part of our online application process (in respect of your Background Information) and/or by providing us with any Criminal Records Information requested for the purposes of providing our Services you will signify your explicit consent to such Sensitive Data being processed by us. 3.6 Please note that answers to all questions on our Equal Opportunities Form are optional and you can always provide a "prefer not to say" response. However, we may be required to obtain Criminal Records Information from you in order to assess your suitability for certain job roles; if you do not wish to provide your Criminal Records Information then we may be unable to process your application (including dealing with any in-flight applications) any further. 4 What do we use your information for? 4.1 You have the right to be told the legal basis and purposes for the processing of your personal data. We are relying on your explicit consent to the processing of your personal data (including any Sensitive Data, as defined above). This means that if you exercise your right to withdraw your consent (please see paragraph 8 below) we will no longer be able to process your data (including dealing with any in-flight applications). Please note we may retain a copy of your data in accordance with our data retention policy. 4.2 We may use your information for the following purposes: (a) to: (i) manage Your Account, process any information provided by you to us and to store your personal data in our databases; (ii) process any applications made by you for job vacancies advertised on the Websites and manage the recruitment process, including contacting and liaising with employers in relation to your applications; (iii) assess your suitability for any job vacancies for which you have applied via our Websites or for which we think you may be suitable; (iv) allow us to analyse your employment preferences and personalise our recruitment services to you, (b) for our own market intelligence gathering purposes, to enable us to understand the recruitment market and prepare demographic, analytical, statistical or market information (which may include aggregating your data with, and benchmarking it against, data received from other individuals, clients and employers) and to improve our services (all on the basis that your personal data will be completely anonymised and you will not be capable of being identified from such information if we share it externally); (c) to contact third parties such as your employer/referees whom you have nominated to verify information about yourself. By providing us with your employer/referee details when registering Your Account and/or when applying for job vacancies advertised on the Websites, you are deemed to have provided us with your consent to us contacting such employer/referees; (d) for such purposes as are reasonably necessary to comply with any legal obligations to which we are subject in the performance of our Services; and (e) to communicate with you, including sending you information about job vacancies which we think may be of interest to you and to send you event invites, newsletters and updates on the basis that you have given your consent to such processing by opting-in to receiving marketing information from us on the My Account page on Your Account. You will be able to opt-out of such communications at any time by contacting us using the contact details in paragraph 11, below, or by opting-out of receiving marketing information from us via the "My Account" page on Your Account. 4.3 Please note that we may also use your personal data to prepare, use and disclose statistical and demographic information regarding use of the Websites for the purposes of improving the Websites (in pursuit of the legitimate interests of improving the Websites for the benefit of you and our other clients to whom we provide our Services) and for our marketing purposes (in no circumstances will you be capable of being identified from such statistical and demographic information)., (a) our data hosting/support service providers who process and store data on our behalf; (b) our professional advisors and consultants; (c) third party data providers for the purposes of validating the information provided by you and to check that the data we hold about you is accurate, consistent and up to date (including for the purposes of performing background/verification checks of the type referred to in paragraph 4.2(a)(v) above); (d) your current employer and/or any other individuals who you nominate as referees to verify certain information; (e) any of our group companies, including any companies which may be added to our group from time to time; (f) any of our business partners, employers and their stakeholders with whom we share information for the purposes of identifying suitable job vacancies in which we think you may be interested and assessing your suitability for any such role; and (g) our trusted third-party emailing service provider whom we use to upload and send email communications with you. 5.2 We may also share your personal information with third parties: (a) in the event that we or any of our group companies, our business, or substantially all of its assets are acquired by a third party (in which case personal information about customers will be one of the transferred assets); (b) if we are under a duty to disclose or share your personal data in order to comply with any legal obligation, or in order to enforce or apply any contract with you or to protect our rights, property, or safety of our employees, customers, or others. This includes exchanging information with other companies and organisations for the purposes of fraud protection and credit risk reduction; or (c) if such disclosure is necessary in connection with any law (including any investigation or complaint regarding your use of the Websites). ## Related Videos - [Beyond Gut Feelings: The Rise of Data-Driven HR](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1326-beyond-gut-feelings-the-rise-of-data-driven-hr) - [Enabling intelligent logistics automation: home-grown Industrial IoT platform at Austrian Post](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2018-enabling-intelligent-logistics-automation-home-grown-industrial-iot-platform-at-austrian-post) - [How to Navigate Professional Relationships in the Tech Industry](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1276-how-to-navigate-professional-relationships-in-the-tech-industry) - [Times of (climate) crisis - How and why sustainable software is a must!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/988-times-of-climate-crisis-how-and-why-sustainable-software-is-a-must) - [From Messy Queries to Scalable Systems - How Data Engineering actually works](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100203-from-messy-queries-to-scalable-systems-how-data-engineering-actually-works) - [It's not easy being green](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/558-it-s-not-easy-being-green) ## Related Articles - [Data Analyst Salary in the UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/278-data-analyst-salary-in-the-uk) - [Data Engineer Salary UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/253-data-engineer-salary-uk) - [UK Business Culture and Etiquette](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/326-uk-business-culture-and-etiquette) - [Software Engineer Salary in The UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/231-software-engineer-salary-in-the-uk) - [IT Salaries in UK](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/288-it-salaries-in-uk) - [The Most Popular IT Jobs on the Market](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/376-the-most-popular-it-jobs-on-the-market)