Data Lead (12 months FTC)

A public sector organisation is seeking a Data Lead to shape and deliver interoperable data solutions that support vulnerability, prevention and early intervention services. This Data Lead position will set the direction for data architecture, standards, schemas, APIs and secure data sharing, helping partners use data safely, ethically and effectively to improve outcomes for people and households.

Day to day of the role

• Lead the design and oversight of data products, integrations and data-sharing processes aligned to agreed standards and enterprise architecture.
• Define and maintain data models, schemas, message formats, metadata and data dictionaries to support consistent use of data across services.
• Work with architects, data teams, service managers and external partners to deliver secure, scalable and interoperable solutions.
• Support the integration of data from multiple systems and organisations, improving data quality, consistency and reuse.
• Advise on APIs, ETL/ELT processes, data pipelines and secure exchange methods that meet legal and governance requirements.
• Act as the main escalation point for technical data design and interoperability issues within SAVVI-related delivery.
• Translate complex technical concepts into clear language for senior leaders, frontline teams and non-technical stakeholders.
• Contribute to standards development, implementation guidance, horizon scanning and continuous improvement activity.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers, partners and sector stakeholders, representing the organisation in relevant forums.
• Support the transition of new solutions into operational support with clear, well-maintained technical documentation.

• Significant experience in a technical data, data architecture or equivalent leadership role.
• Degree-level education in a relevant subject, or substantial demonstrable experience, with evidence of continued professional development.
• Strong knowledge of data architecture, data modelling, metadata, lineage, interoperability and data governance.
• Experience designing and implementing APIs, integration patterns, data pipelines and secure data-sharing approaches.
• Good understanding of UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, privacy-by-design and wider information governance principles.
• Ability to produce high-quality technical documentation, including standards, schemas, design documents and implementation guidance.
• Confidence working across multidisciplinary teams and advising, influencing and constructively challenging stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience within public sector, local government, health or multi-agency environments would be advantageous.
• Relevant certifications such as TOGAF, ITIL, Microsoft or data and interoperability qualifications would be beneficial.