Head of Data Architecture

The opportunity

Digital & Technology at University of the Arts London (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.

 

Your profile

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.

We are UAL

University of the Arts London (UAL) generates and inspires the creativity the world needs for a better future. Since 1842, our colleges have been defining creative education. With curiosity, imagination and intent we make work which creates lasting change for people and our planet. London is core to who we are, a place where we meet and share ideas with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Our creative network influences learning, culture, industry and society on a global scale. Our academics and practitioners deliver creative education and inspire new ways of thinking through research and innovation. We work with students at every level from pre-degree and short courses to postgraduate and online learning, enabling them to build the careers they want. Together, we are a community of makers, thinkers, pioneers and storytellers redesigning the future.

As a University we are ranked second in the world for Art and Design. We are formed of 6 Colleges with unique histories and identities: Camberwell College of Arts, Central Saint Martins, Chelsea College of Arts, London College of Communication, London College of Fashion and Wimbledon College of Arts. UAL also has 4 Institutes, 5 Research Centres, 1 Pre-Degree School and 2 subsidiary companies delivering specialist activities.

Application process

We operate a fair and open anonymous selection process. Thus, you will need to create an account and submit an application through our job board. As part of this, you will need to provide a supporting statement/answer some competency questions to demonstrate your suitability. Our recruitment process involves: Application, Shortlisting, Interview and Assessment, Offer, Onboarding.

We understand the benefits of using AI in work. But, if you are thinking of using it to submit an application, we ask you to think about what value it adds. AI tools tend to lack the personal touch and authenticity we value in candidates. We encourage you to showcase your unique knowledge and skills using your own voice.

If we receive a high volume of applications, the closing day date might close early. We aim to communicate any changes to the closing date with at least 24 hours’ notice. If you have any general questions or have accessibility needs, please refer to our Contact us page.

Start your application

Candidates are advised to submit applications early.