SW Secure Data Environment Head of Technology and Data

We are seeking an experienced, strategic Head of Technology and Data to lead the technology, engineering and data capabilities of the Southwest Secure Data Environment (SWSDE).

SWSDE is a secure, trusted environment enabling health and care data to support research, innovation, service improvement and transformation. It works with NHS organisations, universities and research partners to improve outcomes and decision-making.

The postholder will provide strategic and operational leadership for technology and data, shaping the strategy, architecture, engineering capability and operating model so the platform remains secure, resilient, scalable and aligned with national standards.

We need an established leader who can shape strategy, deliver complex technical programmes and build high-performing teams. NHS or healthcare experience is valuable, but applicants from other complex or regulated sectors are welcome.

You will combine strategic thinking with practical delivery, bringing substantial leadership experience in technology, cloud platforms, data engineering or digital services. You will lead multidisciplinary teams and partners to deliver secure, resilient services in a complex environment.

The role is administratively based in Bristol, and applications are welcome from across the Southwest. Flexible working is available from regional locations and home, with travel to partner organisations as required.

The postholder will:

• Lead the SWSDE technology and data function and develop its strategy, architecture, engineering capability and long-term roadmap.
• Oversee secure cloud infrastructure, data platforms and technology services, ensuring they are resilient, scalable and aligned with NHS and organisational standards.
• Lead and develop multidisciplinary teams, including data engineers, platform specialists and technical managers, while building sustainable in-house capability.
• Direct technology and data projects through effective prioritisation, governance, risk management and delivery oversight.
• Set technical policies, standards, service levels and operating frameworks, and oversee onboarding, platform development, interoperability and data engineering.
• Manage suppliers, cloud providers and technology partners, including procurement, commissioning and contracts.
• Control technology budgets, cloud costs, licensing and resources to deliver value for money.
• Promote secure-by-design, automation, infrastructure-as-code and continuous improvement.
• Provide expert advice and clear technical, operational, financial and performance information to leaders, governance groups and partners.
• Represent the SWSDE technology and data function at regional and national forums.

We are committed to creating an inclusive organisation that promotes and values diversity. We know from experience that different ideas, perspectives and backgrounds create a stronger, more creative workplace that helps us to deliver the best services. We welcome applications which represent the rich diversity of our community; from people of all ages, disabled people, all genders, people from ethnic minority groups, LGBTQ+ people, people with diverse gender identity and expression, people from all religions and beliefs and other diverse characteristics, and we have processes in place to ensure that all applications are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process.

Educated to master's level or equivalent senior-level experience within technology, digital or data services.

Significant experience leading technology, cloud, platform or data services within a complex or regulated environment.

Strong technical knowledge across cloud infrastructure, data engineering, interoperability, architecture and secure digital services.

Extensive experience leading and developing multidisciplinary technical teams.

Experience setting technology strategy and delivering complex technical programmes, roadmaps and service improvements.

Ability to combine strategic leadership with practical oversight of delivery, performance and technical operations.

Strong understanding of information governance, cyber security, data protection and relevant compliance frameworks.

Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical issues clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

Strong stakeholder management, negotiation and influencing skills, including experience working with senior leaders and external partners.

Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills, including the ability to manage risk and operate effectively in complex or ambiguous situations.

Experience managing competing priorities and delivering programmes within agreed timescales and resources.

Experience of budget management, financial planning, procurement and supplier or contract management within technology or digital services.

Understanding of NHS structures and digital transformation, or the ability to apply experience gained in another complex or regulated sector.

Commitment to collaborative leadership, equality, innovation and continuous improvement.

Desirable

Experience working with Secure Data Environments, Trusted Research Environments or health research infrastructure.

Knowledge of SATRE, the Data Security and Protection Toolkit, ISO 27001 or related security and assurance standards.

Relevant cloud, cyber security, architecture or technical qualifications.

Experience of DevOps, automation, infrastructure-as-code, platform engineering or agile delivery.

Experience managing cloud services, licensing, platform performance or large-scale technology suppliers.

Experience working across regional or national partnerships and representing organisations in relevant professional forums.