We're building thriving communities as one of the UK's largest housing groups and a leading developer of affordable housing.
We believe everyone is entitled to a good home they can afford, in a place they are proud to live. More than 100,000 people live in our homes.
If you want to experience work that's truly rewarding, join us. Because when we achieve together, customers and communities thrive.
Work for Orbit. Believe in people.
The role
The Interim Head of Data & Analytics will join Orbit on a 12-month fixed-term contract (maternity cover) to steer Orbit's data strategy and provide leadership to ensure seamless integration of data initiatives across the organisation.
This role is pivotal in driving excellence in data quality, governance, and analytics, fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making.
Responsible for executing the data activities specified in the Integrated Data and Technology Strategy, including measuring progress and revising delivery plans as necessary throughout the Strategy.
Lead the central Data function to execute data activities and provide thought leadership for the Strategic Portfolio of Change as directed by the CID function.
Encourage and promote higher data maturity across Orbit by developing and integrating a data-driven culture, making data available for self-service, ensuring proper data governance, and supporting colleagues in understanding, communicating, analysing, and interpreting data (data literacy).
This role is part of Technology & Information, helping us provide colleagues with the infrastructure, support, and insight they need to excel.
What you'll achieve
- Leadership of the Data function, shaping teams and direction to align and deliver on our Integrated Data and Technology Strategy commitments and annual Strategic Portfolio of projects and programmes.
- Oversee the development of our central data platform, enterprise data model, and enablement of self-service analytics across the organisation.
- Oversee Orbit's approach to Data Governance, establishing a framework to govern conceptual data domains, and defining roles such as data owners and data stewards to improve data quality in operational teams.
- Lead the development and application of data analysis and insight approaches, paving the way for predictive analytics and advanced techniques.
- Engage with stakeholders to promote data team initiatives, support leaders in embedding a data-driven culture, and develop team skillsets.
- Manage contracts, engagement, and governance of third-party data services.
- Oversee budget management for the Data function, including capital and revenue spend.
- Provide regular management information reports for senior leadership and committees.
- Build and maintain strategic partnerships, notably with Microsoft, to maximise technology utilisation.
What you'll bring Essential skills
- Experience leading central data functions including Data Architecture, Analytics, Engineering, Governance, Quality, and Enablement.
- Experience with data transformation technologies such as Azure Synapse Analytics, Data Lake, and analytical tools like Power BI.
- Proven ability to develop Data Enablement programs and embed a data-driven culture.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to create vision, strategic plans, and influence across an organisation.
- Knowledge of information governance and data architecture principles.
- Excellent communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.
Desirable skills
- Experience in Social Housing.
- Experience with Property Asset Data.
Why Orbit?
Choosing us means being rewarded in every sense, with benefits and wellbeing programmes to help you thrive, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
How we hire
Our process is designed to be simple and fair: online application, interviews, decision and offer. Certain roles require a DBS check for safeguarding.