DATA ARCHITECT

The Force’s Data Architect is accountable for the design and build of the Force’s overall data architecture, taking full responsibility for its implementation and its ability to serve the data required to produce information, intelligence and insights products for the Force and its partners.
 
The role is integral the Force being able to create value from the vast amount of data it collects, in particular the data it uses to create intelligence, carry out research and investigations, and make decisions across all levels, commands and services, from strategic to operational, to stop crime and ASB, to protect people from harm and to help those in need.
They will make a significant contribution to both force and regional data strategy, championing the importance of good data architecture across policing, advising on and building the right data structures, and they will lead any significant data projects that will to help the Force achieve its priorities and outcomes.
The role requires a highly comprehensive level of knowledge and functional understanding of the modern tools, technicians, technologies, platforms, standards and practices of the data professions and industry, with an innate ability to explain their purpose, use and value to non-technical people.
They will cultivate strong and effective working relationships with individuals, teams and colleagues, both internal and external to the Force, and they will be expected to participate in regional design authorities representing the interests of the Force in national data strategy and architecture.
 
The role holder will demonstrate the Force values at all times, and they will carry out the functions of this role in accordance with the principles of the Code of Ethics. The aim of the Code of Ethics is to support each member of the policing profession to deliver the highest professional standards in their service to the public.
 
CORE WORK AREAS
Leadership

1. Subject matter expert on data architecture for the Force and, as required provides expertise to partner organisations, and representing the Force’s interest in regard to data.
2. Accountable, on behalf of the Chief Technical Information Officer (CTIO) for the design and build of the Force’s overall data architecture, taking full responsibility for its implementation.
3. Responsible for the management, storage and provision of the data required to produce information, intelligence and insights products for the Force and its partners.
4. Accountable for the selection and adoption of appropriate data tools, technologies, and frameworks to optimise data management and enhance data analytics capabilities across the Force.
5. Provides technical leadership and mentorship to the data engineering, data analysis and BI development team, guiding them in best practices for these disciplines.
6. Works in partnership with the Solutions Manager and their Principal Developer and Principal Database Administrator to continually develop the services and technical skills of the teams that make up the digital and data solutions department.

Data Architecture Design

1. Engages in national and regional data strategy.
2. Develops, implements, and maintains a comprehensive and robust data architecture strategy, aligned to the strategic aims and the data-drive initiatives of the Force.
3. Designs data models, data flows and integration and data storage that enable efficient and accurate data collection, integration, and analysis.

Data Solutions

1. Partners with and guides chief officers and heads of department across the Force to help them understand what is possible with data, turning their visions into tangible data solutions working together to build any related business case for investment and lead on its implementation.
2. Works closely with performance, intelligence and data analysts, engaging with operational subject matter experts to understand and define the analytical requirements of the Force. Translates these requirements into effective data models, marts and structures that will support the production of the Forces’ analytics, predictive modelling and reporting capabilities.

Data Governance

1. Leads on the defining of the Force’s data classification and standards, ensuring these are in line with these being defined nationally for crime and justice.
2. Works with Head of IMU, Head of ICT Operations and both their senior teams to establish the Force’s data access control mechanisms to maintain compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Data Literacy and Quality

1. Collaborates and fosters a data-driven culture by promoting data literacy, data governance practices, and data- driven decision-making across the organization.
2. Establishes and works with cross-functional teams to identify and resolve data-related issues. Research, analyse and appraise the root cause, driving forward any relevant improvements to any processes, practices, and policies.

Data Sources and Integration

1. Investigates available data sources internally and externally, identifying opportunities to maximize the value that the organisation achieves from these assets and define processes to acquire and validate this data to make it usable.
2. Maps data from source to target and establish current & future state based on business data requirements. Undertakes significant data migration programmes as required.

Emerging Technologies

1. Actively participates in professional networks seeking out emerging trends, advancements, and innovations in the field of data architecture and data management practices. Identifying opportunities, evaluates and introduces new tools, frameworks, and technologies where they will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of policing data management.