Assistant Director, Portfolio Analytics

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) is the UK’s largest funder of health and care research, investing over £1.6 billion annually to improve health and care outcomes. Since 2006, we’ve supported world class research programmes, centres of excellence, and people, creating the most integrated health research system globally. Our mission is clear: improve the health and wealth of the nation through research that benefits patients, the public, and the healthcare system.

The Role

We’re looking for a visionary and collaborative leader to head our Data and Analytics function. This is a unique opportunity to shape how NIHR harnesses data to generate insights, inform strategic decision making, and demonstrate the real world impact of research across the UK health and care system.

As Assistant Director, Portfolio Analytics you’ll combine analytical expertise with strong leadership to develop innovative data strategies, inspire a high performing team, and represent NIHR both internally and externally.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the team delivering Portfolio products, including dashboards, reports, impact case studies, and evaluations that showcase NIHR research’s alignment with strategic priorities and real world outcomes
  • Develop and implement a Data and Analytics strategy with a Continuous Improvement roadmap, leveraging AI/ML tools, automation, new data sources, and enhanced analytics processes
  • Provide thought leadership in horizon scanning, impact assessment, economic evaluation, and research classification
  • Manage, mentor, and grow a high performing team, fostering collaboration across NIHR functions
  • Collaborate with the Digital, Data & Technology Office (DDaT) to migrate data to central repositories and streamline analytics workflows
  • Translate complex analyses into actionable insights for senior leadership and operational teams
  • Represent NIHR at external forums, promoting our mission and demonstrating the impact of our research

About You

You are a strategic thinker and experienced leader, passionate about data driven decision making and continuous improvement. You thrive in collaborative environments, inspire your team, and enjoy building relationships across organisations. You are comfortable translating complex data into clear insights that guide strategic priorities.

Experience & Skills

Required Criteria

  • Science degree or equivalent professional experience
  • Extensive experience in analytics or data science within healthcare, research, policy, or related sectors
  • Strong knowledge of UK health and care research and clinical research processes
  • Familiarity with databases, APIs, statistical analysis, dashboard design, AI/ML, and data cleaning
  • Budget management experience
  • Strong problem solving skills and the ability to generate creative, collaborative solutions

Desired Criteria

  • Experience with Google Suite, SQL, GlobalData, Alteryx, Qlik Sense, Snowflake, AWS, Python

What We Value

  • Strategic vision with a focus on leveraging complex data
  • Curiosity, innovation, and pragmatic problem solving
  • Strong team leadership with the ability to motivate and prioritise in a fast paced environment
  • Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative workplace

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary: Director level, commensurate with experience
  • Hybrid working (minimum one day/week in Twickenham office)
  • 25 days annual leave + UK public holidays
  • Annual bonus (subject to performance)
  • Enhanced Contributory Pension Scheme
  • Life insurance and healthcare membership
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Season ticket loan

Why Join Us?

This is a chance to make a tangible impact on the UK’s health and care landscape. You’ll lead a talented team, drive innovation in data analytics, and shape strategic decisions that improve health outcomes nationwide.

How to Apply

If this role excites you, submit your CV and a Statement of Suitability outlining how your skills and experiences align with the required criteria. Show us your passion for making a difference in health research.

Inclusion & Diversity

NIHR celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All applications are considered regardless of age, disability, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or any other protected characteristic.

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