University of the West of Scotland – Strategic Planning and Development Directorate
Paisley Campus
Full-time: 35 hours per week
The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) is excited to offer a fantastic opportunity to join its central analytical team, where you’ll play a key role in driving evidence-based decision-making and supporting efforts to break down barriers to higher education. The Data and Analytics team forms part of the Strategic Planning unit, a multidisciplinary group that advises, coordinates, and enables activities across the University to deliver Strategy 2030 objectives.
As a member of the analytical team, the successful candidate will engage in vital university-wide projects, including the creation of dashboard reporting. While responsibilities will evolve over time, initial priorities include:
- Expanding the University’s ability to monitor student retention, fostering collaboration among key stakeholders.
- Enhancing equality and diversity data reporting and usage in alignment with user needs.
- Supporting efforts to strengthen and streamline data governance and assurance processes.
This role requires developing robust, user-friendly dashboards that empower staff and students to engage with data effectively and meaningfully.
Essential Skills and Attributes
Candidates should bring a positive, proactive approach to problem-solving and possess the following qualifications and experience:
- A degree or equivalent qualification/experience in a relevant field (e.g., Data Science, Statistics, Computing, Economics, or related disciplines).
- Experience working with large datasets.
- Knowledge of statistical programming languages, such as R or Python.
- Proficiency with data visualization tools like Qlik, Power BI, or Tableau.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with strong interpersonal abilities.
- An understanding of data governance principles, including GDPR compliance.
- The ability to manage workloads under pressure.
About Us
UWS is one of Scotland’s largest and most vibrant modern universities, with campuses spanning Scotland and London. We are committed to creating transformational experiences for students, equipping them with sought-after skills to succeed in global industries and sectors.
Our innovative courses, cutting-edge teaching practices, and practical learning opportunities allow students and staff to explore the joy of education, research, and innovation, applying their expertise to benefit communities worldwide.
As reflected in Times Higher Education’s 2024 Young University Rankings, UWS is officially ranked among the top 200 universities worldwide under 50 years of age.
Our professional services teams are integral to UWS, providing dynamic and innovative solutions that support teaching, learning, research, and innovation. As part of a supportive and dedicated team, you will play a vital role in advancing our mission to deliver world-leading research and graduate success stories that shape the future.
Employee Benefits
At UWS, we value and support our staff through a competitive benefits package and a caring work environment across our five campuses. Benefits include:
- Generous leave: 24 days annual leave plus an additional 12 days for public/university holidays.
- Birthday leave: An extra day’s leave on your birthday.
- Pension: Defined benefit contribution pension scheme, including death-in-service benefits upon joining.
- Flexible working: A flexible approach to work-life balance.
- Discounts: Access to an employee discount scheme with 3,500 retailers.
- Fitness facilities: On-campus access to fitness facilities.
- Health and wellbeing: Resources including occupational health, physiotherapy, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
- Development: Professional, career, and research development opportunities.
Interview Date
Thursday, 4th September 2025
Please note: All appointments will be made at the first point of the salary scale unless exceptional circumstances apply, requiring evidence.
Due to application volume, the University reserves the right to adjust the closing date. Early applications are encouraged to avoid disappointment.
For details on how UWS handles your personal data during the recruitment process, please refer to the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at www.uws.ac.uk.
Commitment to Equality and Diversity
UWS is proudly committed to equality, diversity, and accessibility, welcoming applications from underrepresented groups. We are signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant and a “Disability Confident” employer.
University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.