Head of Data & Analytics - Watford

This is a newly created senior role, based primarily at our Watford office with hybrid working available and flexibility to work in our London or Milton Keynes offices from time to time, reporting to our Finance Principal.

The Head of Data and Analytics will lead Hillier Hopkins' data strategy, data platform, analytics, workflow automation (and CRM development) ensuring that our data supports better decision-making, operational efficiency and sustainable growth across the firm. In time, the role will also develop a commercial data and analytics offering, working with service lines to deliver data-led solutions for our clients. Working closely with Principals and Heads of Service, the role will embed best practice, innovation and a joined-up approach to technology and AI as a core enabler of the firm’s strategy.

The duties will include:

• Develop and deliver a firm-wide data and analytics strategy aligned to Hillier Hopkins' growth, client experience and One Firm goals.
• Advise Principals and senior leadership on data-informed decision-making, performance insight and profitability opportunities across service lines.
• Lead, mentor and grow a high-performing data and analytics team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and positive collaboration in line with firm values.
• Lead the development of the firm's data platform, ensuring robust pipelines, quality data models and secure storage environments that support reliable reporting and insight.
• Maintain and champion data quality standards, promoting consistent data capture and use across systems and offices, which is a key enabler of a One Firm approach.
• Direct the development of advanced analytics, reporting and visualisation solutions (e.g. Power BI, Excel) that provide clear, meaningful metrics for Principals and teams.
• Support the development of, and roadmap for the firm's CRM platform, ensuring efficient workflows, high-quality client and pipeline insight, and alignment with our technology, business development and client experience priorities.
• Lead the development of automation and low-code solutions (e.g. Power Automate, Power Apps, SharePoint) to streamline processes and free up capacity for higher-value advisory work.
• Establish data and analytics as a commercial service line, including service design and delivery of data-led advisory services for clients.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will have the following skills:

• Proven experience in a senior data analytics or data management leadership role.
• Advanced proficiency in Power BI, Excel, SQL and Python.
• Experience with Azure data environments and data engineering tools (e.g. Azure Data Factory).
• Experience overseeing and enhancing a data platform, including pipelines, ingestion processes, storage and lifecycle management.
• Hands-on experience developing and supporting low-code and automation solutions (Power Automate, Power Apps, SharePoint or similar).
• Experience managing and improving CRM platforms, including governance, integration, optimisation and process alignment.
• Strong understanding of data structures, integrations and system interoperability.
• Good knowledge of statistical methodologies and data analysis techniques, with the ability to translate complex analysis into clear, concise insight for non-technical stakeholders.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with Principals and teams at all levels.
• Critical thinking, problem-solving and sound decision-making ability.
• Full time role - Monday to Friday (flexible time policy - combination of office/home working).
• Remuneration will be dependent on experience.
• Right to work in the UK required.

The package will include:

• Annual Christmas Bonus equivalent to 1 week's salary.
• Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme all staff are auto enrolled. (Employer: 5%; Employee:3%) subject to eligibility.
• Private Medical Insurance following completion of 3 months service (this is a taxable benefit).
• Death in Service scheme cover (4x salary).
• Group Income Protection Scheme (non-contributory) following completion of 3 months service.
• Annual Leave will be 25 days per annum (pro rata). 3 days are normally taken at Christmas/New Year.

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