Department
At the UK Data Archive we acquire, curate and preserve the UK's largest collection of digital social and economic data. We then make it available to researchers, teachers, think tanks, government researchers and businesses around the world through the UK Data Service, the UKs flagship portal for research resources.
Based at one of the UKs premier social science institutions, the University of Essex, we provide round-the-clock, global access to the Archive’s research datasets through our web-based catalogue, search-and-browse and visualisation applications, and currently serve more than 25,000 registered users in academia, government, business and the voluntary sectors.
Duties of the Role
This position offers an exciting, high-profile opportunity to help shape the data services landscape. You will be responsible for the strategic development and delivery of the Access and Collections Development functions of the UK Data Service. You will join the team of UK Data Service Directors and will provide leadership, setting the direction and priorities for the collection of and access to data.
You will be expected to analyse current operational processes and performance, recommending and operational solutions for improvement when necessary to deliver a more customer-focussed service.
A full list of duties and responsibilities can be found within the job pack.
Qualifications and Skills required
We are looking for candidates who have experience in strategic management within a national research environment. You will have an appreciation and knowledge of the UK social science landscape, and a willingness to convert the theory around this environment into operational practice.
Experience in management, preferably in a research or academic setting, with strong motivational skills and ability to engender and manage effective teamwork are essential. A strong background in any area of social science research will be an asset.
This is a fixed-term, full-time position until 31/03/2024 in the first instance due to the nature of the funding. Whilst this a full-time post, a job share arrangement will also be considered for the right candidates and we would similarly welcome applications from those looking to work 0.5 FTE (18 hours per week) on this basis.
The UK Data Archive is ISO 27001 certified for Information Security Management. Due to the nature of the work in the UK Data Archive applicants who are offered employment will be subject to a vetting procedure before the appointment is confirmed.
At the University of Essex, internationalism and diversity is central to who we are and what we do. We are committed to being a cosmopolitan, internationally oriented university that is welcoming to staff and students from all countries, faiths and backgrounds, where you can find the world in one place.
To support this commitment we have our Global Forum, a staff-led network that promotes and celebrates the rich cultural diversity among Essex staff, and our Colchester campus based Faith Centre, which hosts regular services, meetings and events organised by our chaplains and faith representatives. For more information see: https://www.essex.ac.uk/life/student-facilities/religion-and-faith
Please see the attached job pack, which contains a full job description and person specification, which outlines the full duties, skills, qualifications and experience needed for this role plus more information relating to the post. We recommend you read this information carefully before making an application. Applications should be made on-line, but if you would like advice or help in making an application, or need information in a different format, please email the Resourcing Team (resourcing@essex.ac.uk).
*More information: Working at the University
