Data Architect / Head of Data / Head of Development

Role: Data Architect / Head of Data / Head of Development

Client: NHS Trust – High-Profile Data Programme

Salary: Outside IR35 | Competitive Day Rate | Long-Term Contract

An NHS Trust is seeking an experienced Data Architect— though we will also consider an exceptional Head of Development or Head of Data— to play a pivotal role in the design and delivery of a scalable data platform that will model how hospitals operate.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a high-profile programme shaping the next generation of NHS data capability.

About the Role

We are building a scalable Federated Data Platform (FDP)-style tool, and we need a senior data leader who can:

• Architect and oversee the development of a complex, enterprise-wide data platform
• Shape a tool that translates real-world hospital operations into a robust operationally aligned data product
• Identify, define, and embed best practice in data architecture and engineering
• Provide technical leadership across data modelling, governance, interoperability, and platform design
• Bring proven experience implementing a large-scale data platform within a complex environment
• Work closely with clinical, operational, and digital teams to ensure outputs are relevant and strategically aligned

This is a delivery-critical role with high visibility across the Trust and partner organisations.

Essential Experience

Candidates must have:

• Prior NHS Acute experience(strict requirement)
• Proven track record delivering or leading enterprise-level data platform implementations
• Deep understanding of hospital data flows, operational processes, and regulatory constraints
• Senior-level leadership experience across data, development, or architecture functions
• Ability to drive standards, set direction, and define architectural best practice
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills across technical and non-technical groups

Desirable Experience

• Experience with Palantir Foundry, FDP components, or other large-scale analytical platforms
• Background in designing tools that mimic operational hospital behaviour
• Experience embedding governance, QA, validation rules, and interoperability standards

Contract Details

• Outside IR35
• Competitive day rate(DOE)
• Ongoing contract with long-term programme roadmap
• Hybrid working (onsite requirements may vary, expect 1 day per week)
• Opportunity to work on a high-impact, nationally visible data transformation programme

Please contact Sophie Peters at Seymour John for further information, please only apply if you have strong NHS Acute experience.