Data Analyst

This is a rare opportunity to join a high-performing Policy team, working with 24 leading UK universities. We’re looking for an outstanding Data Analyst to provide support for our policy development and advocacy work. 

Through collaboration and advocacy, the Russell Group works to advance and champion the positive economic, societal and cultural contributions of our universities. The Russell Group represents the interests of our 24 university members at the highest level of government, as well as with key research and innovation funders, with business, third-sector partners, regulators, and internationally with like-minded bodies. 

The role involves:

•   Undertaking regular and timely analysis of official datasets including:
  • Higher Education datasets published by UCAS, HESA, OfS, and DfE.
  • Research and Innovation datasets published by HESA, UKRI, and DBIST.
  • International datasets including the CORDIS Horizon Europe, and Home Office migration statistics
• Providing data analytical support including:
  • Working with the Senior Data Manager to quality assure internal data and analysis.
  • Assessing and critiquing ad hoc data presented in media articles, academic publications and think tank reports.
• Providing high quality briefings in writing and in person.
• Creating effective data visualisations to support analysis, storytelling and advocacy, tailoring outputs appropriately for internal and external audiences.  
• Ensuring our policy and external engagement work is informed by an awareness and thorough understanding of relevant data.  
• Working with the Senior Data Manager to enhance the overall competency within the Russell Group.  

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Keen attention to detail and strong analytical skills, including the ability to undertake statistical analysis; expertise in Excel, including pivot tables, is essential. 
• Substantial experience analysing large and complex data sets, ideally with the datasets described above. 
• Experience of using data to inform policy analysis/development and advocacy. 
• Excellent judgement on the confidence of data analysis outputs; advise on the limitations of available datasets and how to use data in ways which are proportionate, robust and not misleading. 
• Experience of presenting and explaining data outcomes clearly and succinctly to a range of audiences. 
• Experience of selecting and creating appropriate visual formats to communicate complex data clearly, including charts, dashboards, infographics and other accessible formats.
• The ability to work in an agile way in a fast-paced environment, prioritising a varied portfolio of work to tight deadlines. A flexible, collegiate and cooperative approach to working is essential.

Please download our Candidate Pack from https://russellgroup-ac-uk.pinpointhq.com/. 

Our offices are based in the heart of Westminster but we offer flexibility for staff to work from home up to two days a week, subject to priorities. Benefits include: 

• Membership of USS pension scheme
• 25 days of Annual Leave at start, rising annually to 30 days
• Additional Easter and Christmas closure days
• Private healthcare insurance
• Employee Assistance Programme 

The starting salary is £40,000-£45,000, dependent on skills and experience. A higher salary may be available for an exceptional candidate. 

Closing date for all applications: 17:00 on Wednesday, 28 October 2026 

To apply, please visit our Careers site via the 'Apply' button above and submit: 

1) An up-to-date CV, max. 2 sides of A4 covering:

• current and past employment
• degree qualifications including subjects / grades
• reference details

2) A cover letter, max. 2 sides of A4, explaining:

• how your knowledge, skills and experience meet our requirements
• why you are interested in working for the Russell Group 

Further information: https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/

Advert information