Senior Data Analyst

Inside IR35 | SC Cleared | Contract | Defence

We are seeking a Principal Data Analyst to join a major defence digital programme
, supporting the design and delivery of advanced analytics solutions across multiple work streams.

This is a senior, hands-on role combining technical leadership, stakeholder engagement, and delivery ownership. You will play a key role in shaping data strategy, improving data governance and quality, and enabling data-driven decision-making across the organisation.

As a Principal Data Analyst, you will:

• Lead the design and delivery of advanced analytics solutions across multiple projects
• Oversee the development and maintenance of dashboards, reports, and automated workflows using data warehousing and SQL-based solutions
• Define and implement data governance, security, privacy, and compliance standards
• Collaborate with data architects, engineers, and senior business stakeholders to shape data strategies
• Translate complex datasets into clear, actionable insights for technical and non-technical audiences
• Lead and mentor analysts, contributing to capability and best-practice development
• Drive innovation through improved data practices, tooling, and emerging technologies

• Strong experience across the data lifecycle
  , including governance, quality, and validation
• Advanced proficiency with SQL and data warehousing solutions
• Strong experience with data visualisation tools (Power BI, Tableau)
• Proven experience working with cloud-based or hybrid data environments
• Strong understanding of data security, privacy, and ethical considerations
• Experience gathering and translating requirements into scalable data solutions
• Ability to plan, manage, and lead work packages within multi-disciplinary teams
• Experience working in Agile or Dev Ops environments and contributing to technical strategy
• Degree in STEM, Data Science, or a related discipline
• Professional certifications in analytics or data engineering
• Programming experience using Python
• Exposure to machine learning techniques or advanced statistical modelling

This is not an exhaustive list. We are keen to hear from candidates who may not meet every requirement but bring a strong attitude and willingness to learn.

• A senior data professional who can lead, influence, and deliver
  , not just analyse
• Someone comfortable operating in a regulated, security-conscious environment
• Strong communication skills and confidence engaging with senior stakeholders
• Active SC clearance or clear eligibility is mandatory
• Contract role – Inside IR35
• Reading-based with hybrid working
• Long-term opportunity within a large defence programme

If you’re a Principal Data Analyst with strong technical depth and leadership experience, we’d like to hear from you.