Functional Data Analyst

Are you passionate about using data, systems and business analysis to improve services and make a real difference? We are looking for a Functional Data Analyst to join our Student Data & Systems team in Academic Registry on a 12-month fixed-term contract, providing maternity cover, to help shape how the University uses data and technology to support our students and colleagues.

You will work across the University to analyse data quality and processes, define business requirements, support system and service improvements, and help embed effective data governance. You’ll bring strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent stakeholder engagement and a collaborative approach, with experience of data analysis, process improvement, business change and user acceptance testing. Experience of Student Information Systems, such as Ellucian Banner, is desirable.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse data, processes and business requirements to identify opportunities for improvement and define effective solutions.
• Work with Data Stewards, process leaders and stakeholders to improve data quality, governance, standards and reporting.
• Act as a key link between users, Student Data & Systems and IT teams to translate business requirements into effective system changes.
• Support system changes, configuration, UAT, defect management and second-line product support, ensuring solutions meet agreed requirements.
• Facilitate workshops and business improvement activity, using evidence, analysis and collaboration to deliver sustainable change.

About the Department

Student Data & Systems is a key part of Academic Registry, supporting the University’s student information, data and systems throughout the student lifecycle. We work collaboratively with colleagues across professional services, schools and IT to ensure our systems, processes and data enable excellent student and staff experiences.

We are developing our approach to data governance, data quality and continuous improvement, while also looking ahead to the future of student information systems at Salford. This is an exciting time to join the team, with opportunities to influence how we work, improve our use of data and technology, and contribute to strategic transformation.

We value curiosity, collaboration and practical problem-solving, and are looking for someone who can build strong relationships while confidently challenging existing processes and identifying better ways of working.

What's in it for you?

Join us for a rewarding 12-month opportunity at an exciting time as we strengthen our approach to data quality, data governance and student systems. You’ll work across the University, influence how we use data and systems, contribute to meaningful business improvement and become part of a developing Student Data & Systems team, where collaboration, support and a strong sense of community are central to how we work.

• Competitive salary – with an excellent pension scheme.
• An impressive 32 days leave – plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more.
• Flexible working – we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance.
• Professional development – comprehensive training and development opportunities to help you achieve your full potential.

Please note this opportunity may close early depending on applicant volume.

Job Description

Join us here in Salford and be part of one of the UK’s fastest growing universities. At Salford, you’ll find a career that works for you, with flexible working, great benefits, generous annual leave and continuous professional development.

All our people are important to us, and we have services dedicated to your mental and physical wellbeing from an Employee Assistance Programme to discounted gym membership. All of this on either our Peel Park campus or our MediaCity campus, at the heart of a world-renowned digital and media hub.

We value diversity — in backgrounds and in experiences. Our difference makes us stronger, and together we share a passion for improving students’ lives. We have a commitment to be Net Zero by 2038 and embed sustainability in all aspects of university life.

And, most importantly, we offer you a rewarding career. A career where everything you do will make a difference – to the students, our local community and the world around you.

At the University of Salford you’ll join a place to be inspired, connect and thrive. Find out more about a career that works for you at www.salford.ac.uk/jobs.