Senior Data Analyst

Inside IR35 | SC Cleared | Contract | Defence 📍 Location: Reading (Hybrid) 📄 Contract: Inside IR35 🔐 Clearance: SC Clearance required Role Overview We are seeking a Principal Data Analyst to join a major defence digital programme, supporting the design and delivery of advanced analytics solutions across multiple workstreams. This is a senior, hands-on role combining technical leadership, stakeholder engagement, and delivery ownership. You will play a key role in shaping data strategy, improving data governance and quality, and enabling data-driven decision-making across the organisation. Key Responsibilities As a Principal Data Analyst, you will: • Lead the design and delivery of advanced analytics solutions across multiple projects • Oversee the development and maintenance of dashboards, reports, and automated workflows using data warehousing and SQL-based solutions • Define and implement data governance, security, privacy, and compliance standards • Collaborate with data architects, engineers, and senior business stakeholders to shape data strategies • Translate complex datasets into clear, actionable insights for technical and non-technical audiences • Provide expert guidance on data-driven decision making • Lead and mentor analysts, contributing to capability and best-practice development • Drive innovation through improved data practices, tooling, and emerging technologies Core Skills & Experience (Essential) • Strong experience across the data lifecycle, including governance, quality, and validation • Advanced proficiency with SQL and data warehousing solutions • Expertise in data modelling and dashboard/reporting design • Strong experience with data visualisation tools (Power BI, Tableau) • Proven experience working with cloud-based or hybrid data environments • Strong understanding of data security, privacy, and ethical considerations • Experience gathering and translating requirements into scalable data solutions • Ability to plan, manage, and lead work packages within multi-disciplinary teams • Experience working in Agile or DevOps environments and contributing to technical strategy Desirable Experience • Degree in STEM, Data Science, or a related discipline • Professional certifications in analytics or data engineering • Programming experience using Python • Exposure to machine learning techniques or advanced statistical modelling This is not an exhaustive list. We are keen to hear from candidates who may not meet every requirement but bring a strong attitude and willingness to learn. What We’re Looking For • A senior data professional who can lead, influence, and deliver, not just analyse • Someone comfortable operating in a regulated, security-conscious environment • Strong communication skills and confidence engaging with senior stakeholders • Active SC clearance or clear eligibility is mandatory Contract Details • Contract role – Inside IR35 • Reading-based with hybrid working • Long-term opportunity within a large defence programme Apply If you’re a Principal Data Analyst with strong technical depth and leadership experience, we’d like to hear from you.