Student Data & Returns Officer

University of Greater Manchester; Bolton; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Wellbeing resources

Job summary

The University of Greater Manchester is seeking a data analytics leader to join the Student Data Management (SDM) team. You will lead data analysts, drive improvements across student processes, and work with SQL and Alteryx to support the student journey.

You will ensure data governance, GDPR compliance, and stakeholder service excellence, while developing a high performing team and delivering regulatory/data returns.

Qualifications

• Strong analytical skills and experience working with large datasets.
• Experience with SQL and Alteryx or equivalent data processing tools.
• Commitment to accuracy, confidentiality, and data governance standards.
• Experience managing a team and maintaining a robust PDR (Performance and Development Review) process.

Responsibilities

• Manage and develop a high performing team of data analysts.
• Understand university processes throughout the student lifecycle.
• Support the delivery of statutory data returns.
• Provide an exemplary service to stakeholders.
• Champion continual improvement and innovation in data practices.
• Ensure data protection and compliance (GDPR, Prevent).

Skills

Team management

Data analysis

SQL

Alteryx

GDPR compliance

Tools

Tribal SITS

Job description

The Role

It is an exciting time to work at the University of Greater Manchester where we are proud of our growing reputation as a student-focused institution, underpinned by our vision of Teaching Intensive, Research Informed, Assessment Enabled Learning. Are you passionate about working with data and using it to support the student journey in a dynamic higher education environment? This is an exciting opportunity to join the University as part of the Student Data Management (SDM) team. Working closely with the Associate Director and Lead for Student Data, you will have experience of leading through change and delivering service transformation. Your data skills and attention to detail will help drive continuous improvement across our student processes.

About You

You will have strong analytical skills and confidence working with large datasets, ideally within a Higher Education environment. Your experience with data processing tools such as SQL and Alteryx or equivalent, will support your daily work. You will demonstrate a commitment to accuracy, confidentiality, and providing high-quality service in line with regulatory and University data governance standards. You will have experience of managing a team and maintaining a robust Performance and Development Review process.

Key Skills & Responsibilities

• Manage and develop a high performing team of data analysts
• Have a sound understanding of university processes throughout the student lifecycle
• Knowledge of the Tribal SITS student information system or similar
• Support the delivery of statutory data returns
• Provide an exemplary service to all stakeholders
• Be a natural innovator who seeks continual improvement
• Be a champion of data protection and compliance requirements (e.g., GDPR, Prevent).

Why Join Us?

The University of Greater Manchester is driving forward a bold vision for the future. As part of the SDM team, you will be at the heart of major data and digital transformation initiatives and work alongside skilled, supportive colleagues in a collaborative environment. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including professional development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and access to a range of wellbeing and lifestyle resources. Successful applicants will be required to prove their right to work in the UK prior to the commencement of their employment. Whilst the University of Greater Manchester is a licensed sponsor, under UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) not all roles are eligible for visa sponsorship. This position may not meet the criteria for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Eligibility will be assessed in line with the Home Office requirements at the time of making the offer. For further information, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/your-job

Further Details:

The University of Greater Manchester strives to achieve equality of opportunity £35,608 to £41,064 per annum