Data Architect

CPS represents an exciting collaboration between industry giants Balfour Beatty, AtkinsRéalis, and Egis! Together, we spearhead the operation and maintenance of none other than the M25—the bustling heartbeat of European motorways. Imagine the thrill of orchestrating over £100 million of annual investment into this vital highway infrastructure, meticulously planning and executing projects amidst the constant flow of traffic. Whether you're already immersed in the world of Highways or eager to embark on this exhilarating journey, the M25 promises an unparalleled experience, brimming with challenges and opportunities that simply cannot be matched elsewhere!

We foster diversity and inclusivity in our workplace, actively welcoming applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds. Regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status, all are encouraged to apply. Our goal is to cultivate a supportive and respectful environment where every employee can excel. If you need accommodations during the recruitment process, please inform us.

Role Purpose:

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Data Architect to develop, manage, and lead our corporate data strategy. The ideal candidate will have a profound understanding of data architecture, extensive experience in data modelling for business intelligence, and a strategic mindset to influence data-related decisions across the organisation. This role will also be pivotal in supporting and enhancing our newly established data governance framework.

As a Data Architect, you will be crucial in delivering solutions for the Digital Data Lake in the M25 joint venture, Europe's busiest motorway network. You will develop solutions for specific business needs, understand business requirements, and review solution impacts. You will be accountable for the data architecture of the M25 IT systems and a roadmap of activities aligned with architectural principles to improve long-term architecture. We are looking for a self-starter who can work independently while collaborating with business teams as needed.

Role:

Develop and Lead Data Strategy:

1. Formulating and executing a comprehensive corporate-level data strategy that aligns with business objectives and drives organisational growth.
2. Identify opportunities for leveraging data to achieve business goals and enhance operational efficiency.
3. Data Modelling for Business Intelligence:
   • Design, develop, and maintain complex data models to support business intelligence initiatives, with a strong focus on Power BI reporting.
   • Ensure data models are scalable, reliable, and optimised for performance to facilitate insightful and actionable business analytics.

Data Governance:

1. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support the implementation and ongoing management of the data governance framework.
2. Define and enforce data governance policies, standards, and best practices to ensure data quality, consistency, and security.
3. Strategic Thinking and Decision Influence:
   • Provide strategic insights and recommendations to influence data-related decisions at the corporate level.
   • Partner with senior leadership to integrate data strategy into broader business strategies and initiatives.

Stakeholder Engagement:

1. Engage with key stakeholders to understand data needs, gather requirements, and deliver tailored data solutions.
2. Communicate complex data concepts and strategies to non-technical audiences in a clear and compelling manner.

Experience/Criteria Required:

1. A previous experience of coordination of small technology teams.
2. Capability to understand and pre-empt business requirements.
3. Capability of translating business requirements in technology solutions.
4. Presenting skills.
5. Engaging senior level stakeholders and obtaining buy-in.
6. Proven experience in developing and leading corporate-level data strategies.
7. Extensive hands-on experience with complex data modelling, particularly for Power BI reports.
8. Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to influence data-related decisions at the highest levels.

The following technologies are essential, and a good familiarity is required, including development methodologies and related programming languages (SQL, scripting) skills.

1. Amazon AWS environment.
2. Redshift.
3. Power BI (authoring and administration).
4. MS SQL Server family (development and administration).
5. Fundamentals of networking and Microsoft Entra ID.

Familiarity with the following technologies is desirable but not essential.

1. Power Apps.
2. ESRI ArcGis.
3. Microsoft 365 Platform.
4. Lambda.
5. R or Python for data science.

Are you ready to take up a vital role in shaping some of our exciting projects? How about joining our talented team, where everyone has a voice, and together we face our clients' problems head-on. It's a diverse and inclusive work environment where world-class talent knows no distinctions.

We know that different people have different priorities, which is why we're here to support you. Flexible and remote working is a central part of our culture. So, talk to us about what's ideal for you – from reduced weeks to buying more leave over school holidays. And if you're returning from a career break, ask us how we can help you transition back into work with us.

Additional Information:

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary, it will be discussed with you at interview. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require candidates to provide proof of residency in the UK of 5 years or longer. If applying to this role please do not make reference to (in conversation) or include in your application or CV, details of any current or previously held security clearance.

We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community - a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop. To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support staff from different backgrounds. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and abilities.