Data Operations Lead - Administrative Data Research Scotland Programme

Do you believe in the power of data to improve people’s lives? Do you want to enable exciting data driven research to take place securely and for the public good? Research Data Scotland needs you!

At Research Data Scotland (RDS), we’re on a mission to unlock the potential of public sector data—securely, responsibly, and for the benefit of everyone in Scotland. As we prepare to scale, we’re looking for an experienced Data Operations Lead to bridge strategy and delivery, leading the team to structure, embed and bring consistency to our data operations processes

About the job

RDS is undertaking an exciting programme of work to transform the current system of data access for research in Scotland across partners delivering Administrative Data Research – Scotland (ADR-S).

The Data Operations Lead will be responsible for leading the delivery of high-quality, research-ready data within ADR Scotland, while helping shape the future model for data operations across RDS.

This role leads a small but highly skilled technical team requires someone who can combine technical understanding, delivery leadership and stakeholder management, and who is comfortable operating in a complex environment with evolving priorities and diverse stakeholders.

About you

You’re an experienced leader who enjoys bringing structure, consistency and quality to operational delivery. You’re an established and credible data professional motivated by improvement and you take pride in building repeatable, well‑run processes that help teams work efficiently and with confidence.

You have a strong people‑leadership mindset, with the ability to set clear direction, support and develop others, and to lead teams through change. You understand how to balance pace with quality, ensuring data operations is delivered to agreed standards while continuously improving ways of working.

You’re comfortable working across functions and organisations, collaborating with data sourcing, governance and analytics colleagues to translate new processes into practical, day‑to‑day operations. You communicate clearly, manage priorities effectively, and can navigate complexity and challenging conversations with senior stakeholders while keeping outcomes front of mind.

To apply for this role, please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Advert information