Job summary

The Head of Strategic Data and Intelligence Analysis is a brand-new role for RPA and will be based in our Data, Insight & Outcomes Business Area. This is a multidisciplinary team including Geospatial Analysts, Data Engineers and Architects, Data and Intelligence Analysts and a national Field Team. Together, we�re in a unique position to use our specialist skills to work with the agricultural community to deliver big, impactful change, supporting high level environmental and animal welfare outcomes and support national biosecurity and the move towards net zero. This is a really exciting time to join our team as we grow and develop our ability to continuously analyse nationwide agricultural activity and provide agile, directed data and evidence-driven support to the farming community.

This is a huge opportunity to grow and develop a team that will make a real difference to the lives of people throughout England�s countryside by driving RPA�s data and intelligence strategy, helping to support businesses, make communities more sustainable and protect and enhance the environment.

If you�re unsure whether you fully meet the criteria for the role, please get in touch: we�re happy to talk it through.

Job description

With access to big, complex data from across the agricultural sector, this is a new, major role in creating strategic system-level insight and analysis to support operational delivery of high-level environmental outcomes, national biosecurity and net zero. Leading teams of data analysts and intelligence analysts in locations across the country, you will need to work closely with colleagues across RPA, Defra and wider government. You will drive strategic change in how RPA uses data and evidence to monitor the state of the agricultural sector, to administer the payment of over � billion in public funds each year to enable the Government�s environmental and economic outcomes and to support customers in meeting those outcomes.

In this role you will:

Lead development of RPA�s Data and Intelligence strategy, embedding the use of data and analysis across RPA�s internal and customer facing activities. Lead the team in developing an overarching approach to translating and communicating RPA�s Data and Intelligence Strategy across the organisation and into wider Defra, including Defra�s Central Data Office. Work alongside the four Heads of Operational Data and Analysis, Geospatial Services, Regulatory and Advice Service Field Team and Outcomes and Regulatory Policy in the business area, developing RPA�s tactical and strategic intelligence approach to monitor, analyse and act on intelligence, supporting high level outcomes. Build a strategic data analysis function to both inform activity within RPA and develop operational data and intelligence pipelines into wider Defra, supporting policy development, agri-environment scheme design, scheme financing and regulatory approach. Work with Planning and Capability Business Area colleagues and Government profession leads ( Government Science and Engineering), to develop new career pathways and opportunities for RPA�s specialist Data and Intelligence roles, expanding capability into other areas as the function grows ( into statistical and behavioural science areas).

Person specification

We are looking for a passionate, energetic individual who can build and lead high performing multi-disciplinary teams, develop strong stakeholder working relationships and deliver challenging data-centric strategies and initiatives. You should have a background in a relevant scientific, data or intelligence field. However, of equal importance will be your ability to step back from technical detail, see the big picture and communicate complex concepts to non-technical audiences, including ministers and senior stakeholders.

You should have the following essential criteria:

Strong analytical and communication skills with the ability to use data and intelligence strategically to support operational delivery and high-level outcomes. Outstanding leadership skills, with the ability to articulate an inspiring vision and build, engage and motivate the team to deliver in line with RPA�s objectives and perform at their best. Experience in using and improving data and/or intelligence analysis to drive quality decision making and achieving organisational outcomes. Successful track record in designing and developing data and/or intelligence-led insight tools, products and data-visualisation for non-technical audiences, applying a range of analytical skills and techniques. Proven ability to build productive networks across government departments, delivering through those highly effective and collaborative relationships. Being comfortable and flexible in working with ambiguity, resilient under pressure and able to work effectively in a complex change environment. Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to work across multiple teams and build collaborations. Inclusive leader with proven ability to lead, manage and organise teams, creating a good working culture in a fast-paced environment across multiple locations.

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

Seeing the Big Picture Communicating and Influencing Changing and Improving Making Effective Decisions Leadership

We only ask for evidence of these behaviours on your application form:

Seeing the Big Picture Communicating and Influencing

Benefits

Alongside your salary of �62,605, Rural Payments Agency contributes �18,136 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Learning and development tailored to your roleAn environment with flexible working optionsA culture encouraging inclusion and diversityA with an employer contribution of