Lead Data Manager – PeacePlus Nature Programme

Royal Society For The Protection Of Birds; Northern Ireland; Remote; GBP 39,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

An environmental organization is seeking a Lead Data Manager for the PeacePlus Nature Programme, focusing on data management and restoration efforts in Northern Ireland. The role includes remote work and requires expertise in GIS, data planning, and a strong commitment to the conservation of biodiversity. Ideal candidates will have skills in SQL, R, and Python, as well as experience with data collection tools and a collaborative mindset.

Benefits

Pension Scheme

Life Assurance Scheme

34 days annual leave

Qualifications

• Experience in high-quality data management and data management planning.
• Ability to advocate for data as a valued asset.
• UK/Irish species identification skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee data management strategy for the PPN project.
• Facilitate data collection for accessibility and reuse.
• Maintain relationships within the biodiversity data community.

Skills

Data management skills

Scripting languages (SQL, R, Python)

GIS software expertise

Communication skills

Prioritization and planning

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

PowerBI

Microsoft Power Platform

Job description

Lead Data Manager – PeacePlus Nature Programme
Reference: SEP20251799
Location: RSPB Northern Ireland - remote working within Northern Ireland
Contract: Fixed Term, Until 31st July 2029
Hours: Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £39,205.00 - £41,856.00 Per Annum
Benefits: Pension Scheme, Life Assurance Scheme, 34 days annual leave (incl. bank holidays)

RSPB NI are recruiting for a Lead Data Manager for the PeacePlus Nature Programme. We are looking for a candidate who is self-motivated and prides themselves on delivering high standards. You will have excellent data management skills, knowledge and experience in change management. Knowledge of the UK/Irish biodiversity data infrastructure would be desirable.

This role is funded through the PEACEPLUS Programme. PEACEPLUS is a cross-border funding Programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and supported by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland, and the Northern Ireland administration.

Partners will deliver habitat and species restoration works in Northern Ireland and in the border counties of the Republic of Ireland. Works include peatland restoration, restoring and managing habitats for breeding waders, hen harrier and corncrake. There will be a focus on gathering information, monitoring change and the management of data.

What's the role about?

We are looking for an enthusiastic and knowledgeable Lead Conservation Data Manager to join the Data Management Team, working effectively with the PeacePlus Nature (PPN) project team, partners and RSPB staff. You will support PPN work by effectively planning, monitoring and facilitating data collection to ensure the accessibility and reusability of data. Through proactive change management you will improve existing data flows from collection to reuse. You will build relationships across the region’s biodiversity data community, facilitating data sharing agreements and access to external data sources. You will work with RSPB systems, including Merlin (our internal GIS system), ArcGIS Pro and the Microsoft Power Platform, to provide access to data and dashboards.

Role job list:

As an integral part of the Conservation Data Management Unit (CDMU), you are responsible and accountable for data management strategy and approach for the PPN project. Key work areas include:

• Working effectively with the PPN project team to embed positive data management aligning with RSPB’s data management principles of FAIR data, and data management that is efficient, compliant, digital by design and supported.
• Support PPN restoration and monitoring work by effectively planning, monitoring and facilitating data collection for data accessibility and reuse.
• Complete Conservation Data Management Plans for PPN project monitoring.
• Improve existing data flows, including automation, optimising user experience and collecting digitally where possible.
• Work closely with PPN Lead GIS Analyst on the design and approach of data collection apps.
• Ensure CDMU minimum standards for data, metadata and systems are met.
• Build relationships across the biodiversity data community, facilitating data sharing agreements for partnership records and negotiating access to external data sources.
• Provide tailored access to data and dashboards, using PowerBI and PowerApps, to key decision makers.
• Support regional staff through tailored, clear guidance.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• Track record in high quality data management, upholding standards and driving improvements, including experience of data management planning.
• Have courage and confidence to advocate that project data are treated as a valued asset, managed and shared appropriately, and benefits are realised.
• Expert ability to use a scripting language such as SQL, R, Python and/or reporting software, e.g. PowerBI or Report Builder.
• Expert user of GIS software (ArcGIS Pro and ArcGIS Online) with experience of in-field data collection, and experience of other data collection tools such as the Microsoft Power Platform.
• The ability to communicate clearly and concisely to a range of audiences.
• Ability to prioritise tasks, aligning with organisational objectives and managing discrete pieces of work, including planning, delivery and monitoring to set deadlines.
• UK/Irish species identification skills and knowledge of species/habitat survey techniques with experience of collecting data.
• Working knowledge of the applications of GDPR with respect to biological recording.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Knowledge of the RSPB system Merlin (in-house GIS and querying software).
• Detailed knowledge of the UK/Irish biodiversity data infrastructure, e.g. recording schemes, CeDAR and NBN.
• Experience providing technical training and/or support.
• Understanding how to create tools for data capture/management such as mobile/web apps.

Additional Information:

• Terms: Fixed Term/Full-Time position (Until 31st July 2029) working 37.5 hours per week.
• Location:RSPB Northern Ireland - remote working within Northern Ireland. You’ll be a key member of the PeacePlus Nature team, with opportunities to join local meetings and team gatherings in NI.

Closing date: 23:59, Sunday 2nd November 2025
Interviews to take place from 10th November 2025.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.

As part of this application process you will be asked to complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

No agencies please.