Data Lead

If you are a data whizz with an abundance of experience delivering large and complex projects, then this may be the role for you.

Midlands Connect has a brand-new role for a Data Lead to build data and tools to provide a robust evidence-base to drive transformational change across the Midlands. You will own all aspects of developing and applying the Midlands Analytical Framework and it will be your responsibility to lead, motivate and develop a diverse team of specialists to live up to Midlands Connects core value of being ‘evidence lead’.

This is a varied role where you will be using Cloud-first data and tools to manage, analyse and visualise hundreds of varied data sources to help baseline and forecast up to 2050. You will provide advice and expertise on technical matters and supporting policy and strategy development. 

This is a great opportunity for someone who is looking for the freedom to use data analytics to help the Midlands level-up opportunities, decarbonise transport and build a more resilient UK. 

We need someone who is curious about data, has a strong mathematical understanding and is a creative problem solver who is able to interpret complex data.

What you will be doing

• Develop operational/resource plans for the Data Team.
• Work closely with stakeholders and partners in undertaking analytical investigative approaches.
• Lead the development and implementation of policies, processes and systems.
• Develop and agree budgets for the Data Team.
• Develop strong relationships with a wide range of external partners and stakeholders across the Midlands and nationally.
• Lead and oversee the development of data models and database normalisation.
• Ensure that all data outputs are accessible and manageable.
• Ensure databases are linked with all required modelling activities.
• Control and co-ordinate the design and development of spreadsheets, databases and scripts for modelling.
• Lead the development and management of geo-databases, and geo-referencing systems to meet all required client and stakeholder needs and requirements.
• Random probability sampling and structured sampling using quotas or segmentation.
• Produce high-quality reports and presentations for technical and ‘lay’ audiences, summarising complex data analytics and modelling.

About you

• Substantial and successful senior management experience in data analytics and modelling.
• Substantial experience of planning and developing better analytical systems.
• Strong knowledge of policy and business case development, particularly value for money assessments.
• Strong knowledge of economic appraisals. 
• Extensive track record of delivering very large and complex projects.
• Ability to interpret complex data from diverse sources and identify key strategic themes/develop solutions.
• Demonstrated effectiveness in managing complex working relationships.

About us.

Midlands Connect researches, develops and progresses transport projects which will provide the biggest possible environmental, economic and social benefits for the Midlands and the rest of the UK.

We examine every option for improving major transport infrastructure in our region, analysing the cost, impact and benefits of delivering these changes, and ensuring there is a strong pipeline of projects being developed to improve mobility across the Midlands. Our evidence base is then used to prioritise the most urgent and beneficial improvements, and we work alongside our partners and Government to secure funding for their development and implementation.

Our aim of these improvements is to transform regional and UK gateways, bringing the Midlands closer together and accelerating cost-effective improvements to unlock east-west connectivity that will enable the Midlands’ economies to work more effectively together.

Our partnership is vast: councils, LEPs, Chambers of Commerce, airports, HS2 Ltd, Network Rail, Highways England, and our sponsor the Department for Transport. We work closely with all of them, as well as MPs and businesses, to amplify our messages and build relationships internally and externally.

We’re ambitious, forward thinking and determined to find better ways of working, always leading the way in what we do. We trust and support each other to get the job done, and encourage creativity, originality and curiosity from those who work with us. We’re committed to creating an accessible and diverse workplace, one that nurtures an inclusive environment where our people can be themselves.

If your values align with ours and you’re committed to working towards creating a future we can all be proud of, we want to hear from you.

Midlands Connect is an independent organisation, tasked by government to advise on the best value strategic transport projects in the Midlands. Our accountable body is the West Midlands Combined Authority who support us through providing HR, finance and governance support to help deliver our priorities.

Location.

Alpha Tower, Suffolk Street Queensway, Birmingham, B1 1TT. It is expected that you are able to split your time between the office and working remotely, with at least 2 days a week spent in the office.

Reasonable Adjustments.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or alternative methods for the online application process, please reach out to our Recruitment Team at careers@wmca.org.uk. We are here to assist and accommodate your needs.

Thank you for considering joining our team at WMCA. We look forward to receiving your application and the opportunity to work together towards our shared goals.