HM Revenue & Customs
Head of Unity Data Migration and Governance
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Head of Unity Data Migration and Governance
Head of Data Governance for Unity Technical Services
About HMRC
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Introducing The Role
The Unity Programme integrates a shared service for HM Revenue and Customs, the Department for Transport, and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government under Unity Technical Services (UTS). This service falls under HMRC CDIO and is responsible for delivering and operating the new technology that supports Finance, HR, and Procurement shared services.
The Head of Data Governance for Unity Technical Services provides senior leadership and strategic oversight of data governance, data ethics, and data risk management across HMRC’s Unity landscape. Working closely with the Chief Data Officer and senior Unity/CDIO stakeholders, you’ll ensure data integrity, align with regulatory obligations, and support the organisation’s goal of becoming a data-driven department.
Key Considerations
This enterprise-scale role serves complex programmes, demanding strong influence across HMRC and wider government. You’ll act as the trusted advisor, embedding consistent governance standards across UTS while driving responsible data use to enhance decision-making and service delivery.
Key Responsibilities
At this senior level, you will:
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Strategic Leadership & Data Migration
- Define, implement, and oversee enterprise-wide data governance and migration strategies, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
- Lead enterprise-scale data change programmes, guaranteeing data quality and business readiness.
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Policy & Compliance Oversight
- Set and enforce HMRC-wide governance policies, frameworks, and standards.
- Ensure transparency for data protection, ethics, and security, embedding this culture into all Unity programmes.
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Risk & Issue Management
- Identify, analyse, and mitigate data-related risks, collaborating with Sponsors, Data Owners, and leadership teams.
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Operational Stakeholder Engagement
- Represent UTS and HMRC on data governance, ethics, and security matters, ensuring alignment with enterprise data/tech architecture.
- Build strong relationships with chief officers and senior stakeholders across HMRC, CDIO, and wider government.
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Data Lifecycle & Influence
- Champion data risk management, integrity practices, and assurance across the full data lifecycle.
- Promote data literacy and influence senior leaders to embrace data-driven decision-making.
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Emerging Trends & Innovation
- Horizon scan data governance and ethical trends, introducing innovative, scalable approaches.
(Note: Tasks reflect senior executive-level oversight; hands-on delivery experience expected but not required at this level.)
Person Specification
You must demonstrate expert level capability in the following areas:
Core Areas
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Communicating Analysis & Insight
- Translate complex data and governance findings effectively for senior audiences.
- Provide credible recommendations to governance boards and executive leaders.
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Technical-To-Non-Technical Engagement
- Bridge gaps between technical teams, delivery partners, and non-technical stakeholders.
- Lead high-stakes discussions on urgent risks, ensuring aligned decision-making.
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Data Ethics & Privacy
- Oversee compliance with UK data protection & ethics legislation.
- Develop ethical frameworks underpinning responsible data use.
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Data Governance & Management
- Implement holistic governance frameworks in large, complex organisations.
- Design standards, policies, and tools across the full data lifecycle.
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Risk, Assurance & Maturity
- Escalate/mediate high-risk data/technology issues as a priority contact.
- Conduct data maturity assessments to provide implementation plans.
Strategic Leadership
- Influence cross-organisational networks of executives, technical leaders, and subject matter experts.
- Lead strategy design and delivery, ensuring organisational alignment/impact.
Essential Criteria
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Government/Commercial Data Governance Expertise: Widespread experience end-to-end governance in a centralised department or vast commercial entity, including enforcing and surveilling standards.
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Data Protection & Security Leadership: Demonstrated oversight of UK government security policies, including the impact of data offshoring.
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SAP & Enterprise-Scale Data Migration: Proven experience leading SAP ERP migrations at scale, including tooling (Syniti/equivalent) and oversight of risk/quality — no hands-on execution required.
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- Cross-Team Ownership & Influence: Skilful in shaping outcomes across departmental boundaries, driving accountability and high-stakes decision-making.
—UK residency qualifying requirement applies for final appointment.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience within large IT/change programmes.
Benefits
Secure & Competitive Rewards
- £71,725 base salary + matching pension contribution (£20,778 for Civil Service Defined Benefit Scheme membership). Learn more about pensions here.
Flexible Career
- Hybrid Working Policy: Work from home up to 2 days/week (six days/week onsite) depending on role requirements.
- Accumulate 25+ days' leave, increasing incrementally with service.
Private Perks
- Health/wellbeing resources
- Parental support and career progression opportunities
(Explore more HMRC benefits here.)
Application Guidance
To apply, submit:
- CV: Include 3 x roles, up to 250 words on key responsibilities.
- Personal Statement: 1,000 words on experience/expertise.
- (Optional) A separate 250-word statement on Desirable Criteria.
Apply blind name-linked. Video interviews via Success Profiles.
Reserve List & Scoring
- Merit list valid for 12 months.
- Scores adjusted if application volume is high.
Key Logistics
Important Dates/Restrictions
- No location amendments allowed post-application (select cautiously).
- National Security Vetting (SC clearance) mandatory.
Additional Info & Support
Tips: Highlight different projects ("] Go to { "Disability Confident" scheme: Applicants meet minimum criteria qualify for support: "People's version here". }. Bilingual skills or veterans' support available [check the page etc#] Ruben link.)) Need adjustments? Contact recruitment via email; specify needed format.
Security Check required.
Representative Contacts
· HMRC jobs slots: Open permanent vacationer site access.
· Provide your National Insurance number for payment-onboarding.
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For more information about HMRC or as a candidate: simon.smith8@hmrc.gov.uk.
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