The role
Are you passionate about improving data quality, solving complex problems and making processes work better?
We are looking for a Student Data Specialist (Statutory Returns) to join our Student Data team and help strengthen the quality, consistency and reliability of the student data underpinning the University's statutory reporting.
This is an opportunity to play an important role in developing how student data is managed across the University. Working closely with colleagues in Student Records, IT, Planning and Academic Administration, you will investigate complex data issues, identify opportunities for improvement and help develop sustainable solutions that address problems at their source.
Your work will include:
- Investigating complex student data quality issues, identifying root causes and developing practical, sustainable solutions.
- Reviewing and improving the business processes, data flows, validation processes and controls that underpin statutory reporting.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues across the University to identify and implement improvements to student data quality, consistency and governance.
- Providing specialist advice on student data requirements, systems and regulatory reporting, including HESA returns.
- Supporting the planning, delivery and continuous improvement of statutory returns, helping to strengthen the resilience and effectiveness of the Student Data team.
- Sharing expertise and supporting colleagues to develop more effective and sustainable approaches to managing student data.
You will have considerable scope to apply your professional judgement, take ownership of complex investigations and influence improvements across organisational boundaries, while contributing to the longer-term development of the University's approach to student data management and governance.
About you
We are looking for an analytical, inquisitive and collaborative individual who enjoys understanding complex problems and working with others to find effective solutions.
You will bring:
- A degree or equivalent significant relevant professional experience in student data, statutory reporting, information management or a related field.
- Experience of working with student data in a higher education environment, together with a good working understanding of HESA statutory reporting requirements.
- Strong analytical and investigative skills, with experience of identifying data quality issues, analysing and understanding their causes and developing practical solutions.
- Good working knowledge of student information systems, preferably Tribal SITS, and the business processes that support the student lifecycle.
- An understanding of data quality, governance and assurance principles, and their application to student data.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex issues clearly, exercise sound professional judgement and work effectively with colleagues across different professional areas.
- A proactive, organised and collaborative approach, with a commitment to continuous improvement and high-quality outcomes
Above all, you will be someone who is curious about how things work, willing to challenge established approaches constructively, and motivated by the opportunity to make a lasting difference.
How to apply
To apply, please submit your application online via the University portal with a CV and supporting statement explaining how you meet the essential criteria by 22nd November 2026.
Interviews are expected to take place on 3rd December 2026.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Rory McIntyre, Head of HESA Data Returns (r.mcintyre@surrey.ac.uk).