Data SME - SFIA 5
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Data Subject Matter Expert (SFIA 5) to join a large-scale data transformation and migration programme for a Public Sector Client. The role provides deep data expertise across data warehousing, data modelling and data architecture, setting the standards and practices that govern how Legacy data is cleansed, augmented, extracted and integrated into the target solution. You will assure the proposed solution's management of Legacy data across its full life cycle, ensuring it meets regulatory requirements and the client's data policies. Working closely with the programme architecture team and the incumbent shared services provider, you will make certain the delivered solution is compliant, properly integrated and built to last.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide subject matter expertise across data warehousing, data modelling and data architecture, translating complex data problems into workable solutions.
- Define and embed best practice standards and processes for Legacy data, covering cleansing, augmentation, extraction methods and data integration.
- Assure the proposed solution's management of Legacy data throughout its life cycle, from extraction and transformation through to retention and disposal.
- Advise on regulatory requirements and data policies, ensuring the solution can evidence compliance.
- Collaborate with the programme architecture team and the incumbent shared services provider so the solution is fully integrated and future-forward.
- Identify data quality risks and issues early, recommending pragmatic remediation and escalating where necessary.
- Review data artefacts - models, mappings, migration approach and data quality reporting - to a standard that will withstand programme assurance.
Essential Skills
- Strong commercial experience as a Data SME or senior data specialist operating at SFIA Level 5 on complex migration or transformation programmes.
- Deep expertise in data warehousing, data modelling and data architecture.
- Demonstrable experience of Legacy data: cleansing, augmentation, extraction methods and integration into modern target platforms.
- Practical knowledge of data life cycle management, including retention and disposal.
- Working knowledge of UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and associated data policy requirements.
- Experience assuring data solutions designed or delivered by third-party suppliers.
- Confident collaborator, comfortable operating across architecture teams and suppliers in a multi-supplier environment.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Previous experience within the UK Public Sector.
Nice To Have
- Experience of HR, payroll or finance data domains.
- Exposure to Oracle Fusion or comparable ERP/HCM platforms.
- Familiarity with data profiling and data quality tooling.
- Experience working alongside a shared services provider.
- Central Government programme exposure and familiarity with GDS standards.
- Experience mentoring junior data practitioners.