Head of Data

Please note we cannot provide visa support or sponsorship for this role. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.
First Rate is the UK’s largest supplier of foreign currency and a top 5 currency wholesaler globally. We are one of the foremost foreign exchange (FX) experts in the industry, with a multi-billion pound wholesale business and over 20 years’ trusted experience providing tailor-made travel money solutions for companies in the finance, travel and retail sectors.
The Role
As Head of Data for First Rate you will be responsible for leading and managing the data strategy, set up and ongoing running of Data withing the business across all products and services, as well as overseeing the internal and external suppliers of the organisation, including the engagement of our analysis, MI and reporting, data visualisation, and leading on insight.
Key Duties
Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a data strategy that aligns with the company’s business objectives.
Data Governance: Establish and enforce data governance policies to ensure data integrity and compliance with relevant regulations.
Budget Management: Manage the data department budget effectively, ensuring optimal use of resources.
Collaboration: connect and join the Technical and Business elements of the business.
Responsible for the data strategy, leading the cross-business development and implementation, manage 3rd party suppliers, managing budgets, and setting goals for the business
Data Management: Oversee the strategy, operations, storage, and analysis of business data.
Team Leadership: Lead and manage the data team (direct and indirect), providing guidance and support as needed.
Project Management: Manage data-related projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
Analytical skills: Analyse data and use it to make informed decisions, identify trends, patterns, and insights that can help the organization achieve its goals.
Communication skills: Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, create compelling content that resonates with the target audience, and act as the voice of the brand or business.
Creativity: Think creatively and come up with innovative ideas that can help the organization stand out from the competition.
Regulations: Understand the requirements and limitations of working in a regulated environment.
Ideal candidate profile
Data Architecture: Understanding data models, warehouses, and lakes.
Database Management: Proficiency in SQL, NoSQL, and database design.
Data Integration: Knowledge of ETL/ELT processes and tools.
Data Quality: Understanding data cleansing, validation, and profiling.
Data Analysis: Proficiency in statistical methods, data mining, and predictive analytics.
Programming: Proficiency in languages like Python, R, or SQL for data manipulation and analysis.
Data Visualization: Ability to create compelling data stories through visualizations.
Cloud Platforms: Understanding cloud-based data solutions (Azure, AWS or GCP).
Big Data Technologies: Familiarity with Hadoop, Spark, and other big data tools.
Machine Learning: Basic understanding of ML algorithms and their applications.
AI: Knowledge of AI concepts and potential applications in the business.
In terms of Essential skills, a degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Maths, Physics or Psychology, or a related field is usually required for this role, or suitable professional experience.
A Master's degree or PhD in the above subject or a Master in Business Administration (MBA) would be extremely beneficial.
We offer a successful, dynamic and supportive environment where people with talent and dedication can learn, grow and thrive at every level.
Diversity Statement
First Rate is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity in its workforce. We aim to create a culture that respects and values each other’s differences, that promotes dignity, equity and diversity and that encourages individuals to develop and maximise their true potential.