Head of Data Architecture

University of the Arts London (UAL) is a world-leading creative University for teaching and research in art, design, fashion, communication and performing arts. UAL is made up of six renowned colleges and hosts several centres and institutes that further the University's mission and social purpose, through the students and ideas we send out into the world and the partnerships we build to achieve social, environmental, and economic progress.

Digital & Technology at UAL is on an exciting journey, transitioning from a 'classic' IT approach to a user-centred product approach to technology. We are investing in our people, and the processes enabled by digital, to evolve and transform the student and staff experience at UAL.

The Head of Data Architecture is a new senior leadership role within the Architecture and Data team, responsible for establishing and leading a new Data Architecture function within the Digital & Technology directorate. The Head of Data Architecture will play a critical role in delivering the university's 2032 Strategy by enabling data-driven decision-making, enhancing analytics capabilities, and embedding a culture of data governance and stewardship.

You will be tasked with building a high-performing team and developing a robust operating model that supports the university's strategic goals. This includes designing and implementing a comprehensive data governance framework, ensuring data quality, and creating secure, scalable data systems that support planning, performance, and innovation across UAL.

Working closely with senior leaders, academic colleges, and professional services, you will ensure that data is treated as a strategic asset; accessible, reliable, and aligned with institutional priorities. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives on driving cultural change, shaping enterprise-wide data strategies, and delivering impactful solutions in a complex environment.

Experience

• Proven experience in leading data architecture functions and driving enterprise-wide data strategies.
• Strong expertise in data modelling, data warehousing, data lakes, master data management, and analytics.
• Ability to evaluate and recommend new tools and platforms for data management and analytics.
• Familiarity with TOGAF, DAMA-DMBOK2, and architecture frameworks.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with colleagues at all levels of an organisation, whether non-technical or technical
• Ability to lead high-performing teams and drive strategic change.

UAL is a world-class University shaping the creative industries worldwide, with staff having access to a range of benefits, training and personal development to recognise and reward the contributions they make, as well as to encourage excellence, creativity and diversity, including:

• Competitive salary of £60,484 - £81,571 + Market Supplement per annum, Dependent on experience
• 34 days annual leave plus public holidays
• Generous, defined benefit pension scheme
• Family-friendly policies, including 26 weeks of paid maternity or paternity leave

Please apply online via the application portal with your current CV (No cover letter required). Candidates who meet the criteria will be contacted for further discussion and to progress their application.

HAYS Technology have been retained by University of the Arts London to manage the search and recruitment of this role. For all enquiries, please contact Breanna Mahan at Hays Technology.