Data Architect

The Data Architect will help to deliver the strategy and roadmap for moving DVSA to a data led organisation.

The Data Architect will maximise additional value from the Agencys data through assisting with the implementation of data governance roles, process and procedures. One of the chief goals for the role holder is to identify the key data structures, roles and responsibilities and operating model in DVSA and get best value from data. They will ensure that the data collected is fit for purpose and accessible using common patterns and standards.

Working with the Senior Data Architects, the role holder is responsible for both the creation and then the subsequent maintenance of the current and future data architectures for DVSA and ensuring that all data designs deliver value for money, are robust, perform against specification and are fit for purpose. The role holder is responsible for data design and managing data service provision within DVSA and ensuring that securing the Agency information and data is at the forefront of design.

Joining our department comes with many benefits, including:

• Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary. Read more about Civil Service Pensions here
• 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave), plus 8 bank holidays a privilege day for the Kings birthday
• Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance.

Read more in the Benefits section below!

Find out more about what it's like working at Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency - Department for Transport Careers

1. Define the principles, policies, processes, specifications and protocols for data architecture as well as assisting in the production of the same artefacts for data governance and assurance of data within the Agency.
2. Contribute to the creation and maintenance of data governance operating model.
3. Understand and address the risk and security aspects of data architecture and management. Create and maintain data principles which guide the use of data patterns across the agency.
4. Proactively seek, gather input from and influence senior Digital and Data and business colleagues to ensure that the data strategies and architectures will support the needs of DVSA.
5. Working closely with other members of the Digital and Data team, including third party suppliers, leads the use and management of the Agencys data.
6. Build relationships and networks with architecture colleagues across government, the IT industry and with suppliers to understand the market developments, gain industry insight, case studies and monitor market trends to provide comprehensive recommendations within DVSA on future data options and to enable intelligent data architecture planning for the future.

For further information on the role, please read the attached role profile. Please note that the role profile is for information purposes only - whilst all elements are relevant to the role, they may not all be assessed during the recruitment process. This job advert will detail exactly what will be assessed during the recruitment process.

Person Specification

To be successful in this role you will need to have the following experience:

Essential Skills

• To engage and communicate with colleagues of all levels with the ability to present technical ideas and concepts verbally and via documentation in the language of the business.
• Excellent problem solving and analytical skills with the ability to translate business need and data requirements into technical language.
• Applied experience and expertise in data architecture concepts (e.g. model management, meta-data management, data governance).

Essential Experience

• Proven track record of helping to embed data architecture concepts within an organisation.
• Experience of helping to develop a data strategy and working within and influencing the associated policies.

Additional Information

Government Digital and Data Allowance 

The role is part of the Government Digital and Data (or Government Security Profession Career Framework) profession and utilises an enhanced CapabilityBased Pay Framework which provides access to a Digital and Data allowance. 

The base pay is 44,241 In addition to this the role includes a Digital and Data allowance of up to 14,756. 

The value of allowance awarded will be based on an assessment of your skills and experience as demonstrated through the selection process. Here are more details on the pay framework. 

Working hours, office attendance and travel requirements

Full time roles consist of 37 hours per week.

Whilst we welcome applications from those looking to work with us on a part time basis, there is a business requirement for the successful candidate to be able to work at least 30 hours per week. 

Occasional travel to other offices will be required, which may involve overnight stays. 

This role is suitable for hybrid working, which is a non-contractual arrangement where a combination of workplace and home-based working can be accommodated subject to business requirements.

The expectation at present is a minimum of 60% of your working time a month will be spent at either your designated workplace (one of the locations cited in the advert) or, when required for business reasons, in another office/work location. There may be occasions where you are required to attend above the minimum expectation. 

If you have a question about hybrid working, part time/job share hours, flexible working, travelling for work, or require a reasonable adjustment, please contact the Vacancy Holder during the recruitment process to avoid possible disappointment later in the process should your working arrangements not be compatible with the requirements of the role (see below for contact details).

Please note that we do not hold a UK Visa & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker Licence sponsor and are unable to sponsor any individuals for Skilled Worker Sponsorship. Candidates must ensure they have the appropriate rights to work in the UK before application.