Lead Transport Research and Data Analyst

Hours: 37 hours per week (full time) Contract: Permanent Salary: Grade 10 - £47,181 - £50,269 Location: Sheffield (This is a hybrid role with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office) South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is committed to creating a modern, integrated and sustainable transport network that supports economic growth and improves opportunities for people across the region. We are looking for a Lead Transport Research & Data Analyst to join our Insight Team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced research and data professional to lead the development of transport research, insight and evidence that informs strategic decision making and demonstrates the impact of transport investment across South Yorkshire. Applications must be accompanied by a cover letter to detail how you meet the criteria as detailed within the role profile. (please see role profile attached). Please note, all applications should be made directly via our careers portal . In your cover letter, please discuss your experience with the following: Designing and analysing the results of surveys Analysing and presenting data for a broad and varied audience, including stakeholders and partners Strong communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage contractors and deal with a variety of internal and external stakeholders; Defining and delivering specific measurable results to affect programme change, ensuring approaches provide a strong rationale for change. (please specify if you want specific criteria to be exampled About the role As Lead Transport Research & Data Analyst, you will lead the delivery of research and analysis that supports SYMCA's Transport Directorate. You will oversee a programme of transport surveys, customer research and consultation activity, ensuring that high-quality insight is available to support policy development, service improvement and investment decisions. You will lead a specialist team with line management responsibility of a data analyst, responsible for transport research and analysis across key transport programmes, including bus, tram, rail and active travel. Working closely with senior colleagues, local authorities and transport partners, you will transform complex data into meaningful insight and clear recommendations. The role will involve developing dashboards and reporting tools, managing data quality and governance standards, and supporting the continuous improvement of how evidence is used across the organisation. About you We are looking for an experienced research and data professional with a strong background in analysing complex information and turning it into clear, actionable insight. You will have experience: Leading multiple research programmes at once. As a confident communicator who can build strong relationships with colleagues, stakeholders and partners, while providing expert advice and challenging constructively when required. Presenting statistical information and research findings to a non-technical audience. Understanding data governance protocols including adherence to data quality standards, data protection and quality assurance both in an electronic research and market research environment. Providing specialist and technical advice and guidance to managers at all levels of seniority and external stakeholders. Defining and delivering specific measurable results to affect programme change, ensuring approaches provide a strong rationale for change. Designing and analysing the results of surveys. Analysing and interpreting data from a variety of sources to support improved evidence led decision making. Using Excel and PowerBI for processing, presenting, and manipulating data. Presenting data and findings from data analysis in visual form (i.e. charts, dashboardsUsing SQL (or similar) for extracting and manipulating large datasets Most importantly, you will be passionate about using data, research and insight to improve transport services and help shape the future of transport across South Yorkshire. Benefits All colleagues have access to a Local Government Pension Scheme and the chance to be part of an organisation where you can really make a difference. Located in Sheffield City Centre, we are well-placed for transport links and encourage employees to take advantage of the active travel facilities. Work/life balance is extremely important to us here at SYMCA with our recognised family/friendly policies, genuine work flexibility, recognition, and shared success. In addition to the above, some of our benefits include - Holiday Entitlement – From 28 to 36 days annual leave entitlement (depending on length of service) plus bank holidays. Pro-rata for part time colleagues. Annual Leave Purchase Scheme – The ability to purchase up to a further 15 days per year in additional to your normal annual leave Hybrid working – Our offices are a space where we come together and collaborate. Most of our roles are offered on a hybrid basis with the exception of some support roles being onsite full time. Please note, unless specified within the job advert, we cannot accommodate remote working contracts. Flexible Hours Scheme – Most roles within SYMCA work under the Flexi-Scheme which allows office-based employees’ flexibility and discretion over their working hours. Under the scheme employees can accrue a defined amount of credit or debit of working hours, and to take time-off in the form of Flexi-Leave or banked Annual Leave. Rewarding You - Reducing everyday expenses through discounts, benefits, financial advice, wellbeing solutions and more with Reward Gateway and Cycle-to-Work schemes. Training on the job - Support with upskilling skills through on-the-job training and qualifications Professional Membership Fees – Where membership to Professional bodies is applicable to your role, SYMCA will reimburse your membership fees where applicable and following approval by Line Management. Diversity at South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Authority Our workforce is made up of a diverse community, where we all belong and feel part of something bigger. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief. All employees are eligible to request Flexible Working arrangements from day one of employment as such all requests will be considered subject to operation requirements. Where candidates share disabilities within the application process, if they demonstrate that they meet all essential criteria from the Role Profile within their application, they will automatically be invited to interview. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the process, please contact [email protected] or include within your application form detailing the adjustment and how it will assist in managing any barriers.