Job Description

Are you ready to shape the future of digital healthcare in Wales? We're seeking an exceptional leader to join us as Associate Director of Data Architecture & Standards. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to drive strategic data initiatives across the health and care system, ensuring alignment with national digital priorities and clinical transformation. You'll lead the development of enterprise-wide data architecture, champion data standards, and influence senior stakeholders to embed data-driven decision-making at every level. If you're passionate about innovation, governance, and making a real impact through data, we want to hear from you.
Main duties of the job
As Associate Director, you'll lead the strategic design and implementation of data architecture across NHS Wales. You'll oversee the development of scalable, interoperable data models and frameworks that support digital transformation and improve service delivery. Working closely with senior leaders, you'll ensure data systems are robust, user-centred, and aligned with evolving organisational needs. You'll also guide teams through change, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and represent the organisation in high-level discussions across government and industry.
About us
Digital Health and Care Wales (DHCW) is an expert national body and part of NHS Wales. We work in partnership with NHS Wales colleagues and other key stakeholders to provide national digital and data services which support the delivery of health and social care in Wales. Modern health and care services depend on good digital tools, data and information. DHCW runs or works with more than 100 services and delivers major national digital transformation programmes to support this. In addition, DHCW provides expert advice in relation to cyber security and information governance. We give frontline staff the digital tools which help them provide safer and more efficient care. We are also giving patients and the public digital tools to better manage their own health and wellbeing, empowering people to live healthier lives. We put people at the heart of what we do, working to the highest standards to deliver quality and make digital a force for good in health and care.
Working for DHCW offers lots of employee benefits, including flexible working, a competitive salary, 28 days of annual leave plus Bank Holidays and opportunities for career development. We are committed to recognising and celebrating our staff as the most valuable part of our organisation.
Details
Date posted
11 September 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 8d
Salary
92,713 to 106,919 a year per annum
Contract
Permanent
Working pattern
Full-time, Flexible working
Reference number
025-AC206-0925
Job locations
Hybrid working
Location to be confirmed at interview
CF11 9AD
Job description
Job responsibilities
You will be able to find a full Job description and Person Specification attached within the supporting documents or please click Apply now to view in Trac
Lead enterprise data architecture strategy and governance.
Develop and embed data standards and modelling principles.
Oversee complex data integration and system design.
Provide expert advice to senior stakeholders and teams.
Champion data-driven transformation and Agile practices.
Manage budgets, procurement, and supplier relationships.
Promote inclusive leadership and professional development.
Represent the organisation in national forums and cross-sector collaborations.
Job description
Job responsibilities
You will be able to find a full Job description and Person Specification attached within the supporting documents or please click Apply now to view in Trac
Lead enterprise data architecture strategy and governance.
Develop and embed data standards and modelling principles.
Oversee complex data integration and system design.
Provide expert advice to senior stakeholders and teams.
Champion data-driven transformation and Agile practices.
Manage budgets, procurement, and supplier relationships.
Promote inclusive leadership and professional development.
Represent the organisation in national forums and cross-sector collaborations.
Person Specification
Qualifications and Knowledge
Essential

• Master's degree in an associated professional field (or equivalent qualification / experience).

Experience
Essential

• Proven leadership in enterprise data architecture, with accountability for setting data strategy, standards, and governance across large, complex organisations.
• Experience advising executive teams, contributing to corporate strategy, and representing data architecture interests at Board or national programme level.
• In-depth knowledge of corporate, legal, and industry data standards, with a strong track record of ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Expert knowledge of enterprise information systems and data architecture, encompassing data modelling, integration, and driving organisation-wide data-informed decisions.

Skills and Attributes
Essential

• Leadership to support and guide others with clear direction and to encourage an inclusive, high-performing team culture.

Person Specification
Qualifications and Knowledge
Essential

• Master's degree in an associated professional field (or equivalent qualification / experience).

Experience
Essential

• Proven leadership in enterprise data architecture, with accountability for setting data strategy, standards, and governance across large, complex organisations.
• Experience advising executive teams, contributing to corporate strategy, and representing data architecture interests at Board or national programme level.
• In-depth knowledge of corporate, legal, and industry data standards, with a strong track record of ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Expert knowledge of enterprise information systems and data architecture, encompassing data modelling, integration, and driving organisation-wide data-informed decisions.

Skills and Attributes
Essential

• Leadership to support and guide others with clear direction and to encourage an inclusive, high-performing team culture.

Skills Required