Put data at the heart of decision-making in the North East
The North East is entering a bold new era. With devolved powers, a newly elected Mayor, and a shared ambition for inclusive opportunity, the North East Combined Authority (NECA) is building a future shaped by evidence, insight and innovation.
About the Role:
As Head of Data, Analysis and Insight, you will lead a growing central team that provides high-quality data, evaluation and insight to drive decision-making across the organisation. Reporting to the Director of Operations, this is a rare opportunity to build a strategic function, shaping not just the systems and tools we use, but the culture of evidence-based thinking across the Combined Authority.
Your role will combine strategic leadership with technical credibility. You’ll lead a multidisciplinary team spanning data science, economic and spatial analysis, research and evaluation, and data engineering. This team will provide trusted insight to Cabinet, senior leaders and programme teams, while also delivering statutory and strategic reporting that supports everything from regional economic plans to transport reform and child poverty reduction.
As we develop ourselves as an Established Mayoral Strategic authority, our data capability must keep pace. You’ll be responsible for developing a first-class data infrastructure, championing automation, modern platforms, and innovative tools that make information accessible and actionable across the organisation. You’ll also work closely with partners, including universities, local authorities and national government, to align datasets, share best practice, and build a joined-up evidence base for the region.
A central part of this role will be applying data and evidence to support the foundational economy, the everyday services and sectors that support communities and underpin people’s quality of life. Your work will help ensure that our regional strategies are grounded in the realities of people’s lives and that the inclusive growth we’re aiming for is backed by real, place-based insight.
About You:
We’re looking for someone who combines technical depth with strategic vision. You’ll be comfortable leading data professionals, able to coach and mentor a skilled team, and will be credible as both a subject matter expert and a senior leader.
You’ll have experience working across organisational boundaries, and you’ll understand how to turn data into action, whether that’s informing a mayoral policy initiative, shaping a new transport strategy, or enabling teams to track their own performance with clarity and confidence.
This role will suit someone excited by the opportunity to build something lasting, from team structure to systems architecture, and who is ready to be a visible and valued leader across the organisation.
For a confidential conversation about this role with our retained advisors at Tile Hill, please contact:
Closing Date: Midnight on Thursday, 28th August 2025
* The salary benchmark is based on the target salaries of market leaders in their relevant sectors. It is intended to serve as a guide to help Premium Members assess open positions and to help in salary negotiations. The salary benchmark is not provided directly by the company, which could be significantly higher or lower.