Head of Data

Company Description

Come join us and make a difference in the world!

Discover more at www.necsws.com

Job Description

*Due to strict Security Clearance requirements, we can only consider applicants that have lived in the UK for 5 consecutive years or more*

Who we are:

NEC Digital Studio are a people-first digital studio designing and delivering evidence-led solutions at scale to transform the services used by everyone, every day. We are a team of Solutionists, made up of researchers, strategists, designers, technologists and developers. Our skills can be used in isolation or all together, depending on the needs of our clients.

We support public, private and social purpose organisations to harness the power of digital through life-centred design, data and technology, empowering them to be more effective, sustainable and inclusive.

What do we need?

NEC Digital Studio are looking for a visionary and experienced Head of Data to lead our growing team of data engineers, data scientists, and data analysts.  This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong technical background and exceptional leadership skills.  The Head of Data will be responsible for managing the data team, shaping the strategic direction of our data practice, and driving the execution of data-driven initiatives to support our clients' needs and our company's growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Management:
  • Lead and mentor a diverse, local and remote team of data professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
  • Oversee recruitment, training, and professional development of the data team.
  • Provide strategic direction and technical guidance to the team.
• Strategic Vision & Planning:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive data strategy aligned with the company’s objectives and client needs.
  • Develop data policies and standards for customer products and services.
  • Identify opportunities to leverage data for business growth and operational efficiency.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies to ensure the company remains at the forefront of data innovation.
• Project Management & Execution:
  • Oversee the design, development, and deployment of data projects, ensuring they meet quality standards and deadlines.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate data solutions into broader company initiatives.
  • Ensure data projects comply with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Act as the primary point of contact for all data-related matters within the division.
  • Engage with clients to understand their data needs and provide tailored solutions.
  • Communicate complex data concepts and strategies to non-technical stakeholders effectively.

Qualifications

What we need from you:

• Proven experience in a senior data leadership role, preferably within the public sector.
• Strong technical expertise in data engineering, data science, and data analytics.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute data strategies that drive business value.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Exceptional problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with cloud-based data platforms and tools (e.g., AWS and Azure).
• Familiarity with public sector data challenges and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with machine learning and artificial intelligence applications including practical applications in business context.
• Knowledge of data governance and data security best practices.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL.
• Experience of delivering Business Intelligence services.

Desirable experience and qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Data Science, Statistics, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.

Additional Information

We pride ourselves in offering an excellent benefits package, including an above average pension scheme. When you join the team at NEC Software Solutions, you are provided with the following:

• 25 days paid holiday with the option to buy/sell 
• 4 x basic salary life assurance cover  (with the option to increase cover at an additional cost)
• A Group Pension Plan 
• A selection of flexible benefits to suit your individual needs 

OTHER INFORMATION

• Candidates must be able to demonstrate a pre-existing right to work and travel within the UK. Documentary evidence will be required.
• All offers are subject to satisfactory vetting, references and occupational health checks. 
• Depending on the nature of the role a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check may also be required.

NEC Software Solutions is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from all communities. If you require any reasonable adjustments or have specific accessibility needs during the recruitment or interview process, please feel free to share these with us. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and accommodating experience for all candidates.

Who We Are:

We’re NEC Software Solutions (part of global tech giant NEC Corporation). While you read this ad, our software is helping to dispatch ambulances, support families, keep trains on the move, locate missing people and even test the hearing of newborn babies.

Working with us, you’ll be helping our 3,000+ employees push the boundaries of what’s possible and support amazing public services.

We work with governments, hospitals, police forces, housing providers, local authorities and more. We help them pay financial support faster, speed up treatments for patients and respond to emergencies in the right way. The more we do, the more our customers can do for others. And together, we make a world of difference.

We’d love your help. And we’ll support you all the way.