## Review: Lead the Data & Analytics Function for England's Health & Care Research Network This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned data professional looking to make a significant impact on a national scale. The role of **Data and Analytics Lead for the NIHR Research Delivery Network (RDN)** offers a chance to be at the forefront of supporting and shaping health and care research across England. If you possess strong leadership capabilities, a passion for data-driven decision-making, and a desire to contribute to a healthier nation, this position warrants your close attention. ### Advantages for Your Career Path: * **National Impact & Strategic Influence:** You will be instrumental in driving the strategic agenda of the NIHR Research Delivery Network. This is not just about managing data; it's about influencing how high-quality health and care research is delivered, directly impacting patient outcomes and national well-being. * **Leadership & Team Development:** This role provides a platform to lead and mentor a team of data professionals. You'll have the opportunity to cultivate their skills, foster a high-performing environment, and guide them through a significant period of organisational transformation. * **Innovation & Forward-Thinking Solutions:** The description emphasizes a commitment to "innovative and forward-thinking solutions to the use of data." This suggests an environment where you can explore and implement cutting-edge data strategies, analytics techniques, and visualization tools. * **Cross-Functional Collaboration:** You will engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including colleagues across the RDN, the University of Leeds, and external bodies. This will broaden your network, enhance your understanding of various organizational dynamics, and refine your collaborative leadership skills. * **Career Development & Learning:** The organization strongly emphasizes personal development. With access to a wealth of training resources, including dedicated staff development days and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, this role is designed to foster your continued growth. * **Attractive Benefits Package:** The offered benefits are substantial, including a generous holiday allowance (42 days per year!), a highly competitive pension scheme with a significant employer contribution, and access to excellent health and wellbeing facilities. ### Key Considerations for Potential Candidates: * **Experience in Data Management & Governance:** A strong track record in managing the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of reports, data visualizations, and data management systems is essential. Familiarity with data architecture, data governance methodologies, data staging environments, and metadata management will be crucial for success. * **Understanding of the Health Research Landscape:** While not strictly mandatory, knowledge of the health research data landscape and an understanding of DHSC and NHS England digital strategies would be a significant advantage. This will allow you to hit the ground running and contribute more effectively from the outset. * **Adaptability and Change Management:** The role involves supporting a significant organizational shift towards a more integrated way of working. Candidates should be comfortable navigating periods of change, managing teams through transformation, and championing a shared purpose and vision. * **Hybrid Working Model:** The position is based in Leeds with a requirement for at least 40% of your time to be spent in the office. While flexibility is mentioned, candidates should be comfortable with this hybrid working arrangement. * **Commitment to Inclusion:** The organization's commitment to inclusion and equity of opportunity is evident in their anonymized shortlisting process. Candidates should be mindful of this and ensure their applications adhere to these principles. This role represents a compelling opportunity for a leader to significantly influence the future of health and care research in England. If you are driven by impact, possess a deep understanding of data, and thrive in a collaborative and evolving environment, this position offers a rewarding career path.