The University of St Andrews is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Data Architect to improve the level of maturity of University data management and governance, by working closely with colleagues both within IT Services, with the Management Information Group, and stakeholders throughout the business.  

The Data Architect is a senior role and will be based within the Enterprise Applications Team (EAT) within IT Services.  The successful candidate will act as the design authority for the University’s data management and structures, and lead the development and implementation of data governance policies, tools, and processes. Whilst the strategic business requirements will be articulated via the Management Information Steering Group, the role holder will be accountable for the technical solutions and governance required to meet the business need.  

This is an exciting position, offering the opportunity of broad engagement across the University The post carries a high degree of independence in both thought and action.  

The successful candidate will be educated to degree standard or equivalent with ideally additional qualification in Systems Development or related disciplines and holding MODAF or TOGAF certifications.  

With experience in a similar role, applicants should:  

Understand the systems and software development lifecycles; software management approaches (Agile), requirements design and test techniques.  

Have in-depth knowledge of data modelling and database design, established data management and reporting technologies.  

Be experienced in one or more of: data warehousing, predictive analytics, data visualisation and unstructured data.  

Have a breadth of knowledge in established and emerging data technologies and be able to map systems and interfaces used to manage data and set standards for data management, analyse current state, and conceive future state.  

Have the ability to conceive and manage projects to close any gaps in the above.  

Be able to emphasise methodology, modelling and governance and display an awareness of data security principles and the Data Protection Act.  

Additionally, candidates should be articulate and persuasive, with the ability to communicate, influence and work flexibly, openly and co-operatively with others, at all levels within the organisation.

They will possess excellent written and verbal communication skills together with excellent problem solving skills and resourcefulness, including the ability to work to tight deadlines and they will be technology neutral and sensitive to alternative stakeholder views and positions.

Highly motivated, with the ability to work without supervision and undertake independent self-learning, they will have the ability to work as part of a team, including knowledge sharing and will be well organised with a good eye for detail.  

This is a two year fixed term post.  

The University of St Andrews is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all, which is further demonstrated through its working on the Gender and Race Equality Charters and being awarded the Athena SWAN award for women in science, HR Excellence in Research Award and the LGBT Charter;  http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/diversityawards/. 

In 2018 the University will establish purpose built office accommodation at Guardbridge, by St Andrews, to provide a state of the art working environment for a number of our Professional Services Units. It is anticipated that up to 350 Professional Services staff from a range of Units will be based in the new development at Guardbridge. 

This post may be primarily based at Guardbridge.

Please quote ref: AD2016MR

Closing Date: 14 October 2016

Further Particulars: AD2016MR FPs.doc
IT Services
Salary: £38,896 - £47,801 per annum
Fixed term: 2 years
Start: As soon as possible