Summary job description
The Head of Design & Integration is responsible for leading a core team within Data Science. This role will oversee the design, development, and integration of data collection, visualisation, and interpretation tools, conduct integrated data analyses, and ensure the seamless operation of data access platforms. The team will also provide training and support to staff and partners on using these tools effectively. This position requires collaboration with the team that builds tools, as well as cross-functional teams, to ensure that data solutions meet organisational needs and are user-friendly.
The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise in data collection, analysis, and system integration with strong leadership and communication skills, ensuring that data-driven decision-making is enabled across the organisation. This role will report to the Director of Data Science.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Team Management:
Lead the Design & Integration team, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and priorities.
Mentor and guide team members, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Collaborate with the Data Engineering team, Spatial Data team and other cross-functional technical teams to ensure that the data collection, analysis, and visualisation tools are effectively designed and integrated into organisational processes.
Data Collection Tools:
Needs Assessment: Identify stakeholder data requirements and ensure that the tools designed are fit for purpose.
Tool Creation: Lead the design of robust data collection instruments such as surveys, questionnaires, and digital tools that align with stakeholder needs.
Data Integration: Ensure smooth integration of data into central databases by working closely with the Data Engineering team and other technical teams.
Tool Testing: Manage the pilot testing of data collection tools, gathering feedback to refine and improve functionality.
Sampling Strategies & Data Analysis:
Sampling Strategy Creation: Design and implement robust sampling strategies that ensure representative and statistically reliable data.
Data Analysis Frameworks: Lead the development of analytical frameworks to process collected data, transforming raw data into actionable insights.
Quality Control: Establish and enforce protocols for data validation and accuracy, ensuring high-quality data at all stages. Integrated Data Analysis & Reporting:
Data Integration: Oversee the integration of data from various sources to create comprehensive datasets for analysis.
Advanced Analysis: Develop and apply advanced analytical techniques to derive meaningful insights from integrated datasets.
Interpretation & Reporting: Prepare and present analysis results in accessible formats, providing actionable insights for decision-making processes across various departments.
Data System Support & Training:
Training & Guidance: Work closely with the Technical Knowledge team to develop training materials, guidance documents, and workshops for staff and partners on using data systems and tools.
Support & Feedback: Provide ongoing support to data system users and respond to issues with tools, collaborating with the building team to address technical challenges.
User-Centric Design: Coordinate with users and technical teams to ensure that data tools and platforms meet user needs and are continually improved based on feedback.
Collaboration and Communication
Act as a liaison between the Design & Integration team and other technical teams to ensure alignment and seamless collaboration.
Ensure effective communication with internal stakeholders, including country staff and partners, to ensure that data systems meet operational needs and are efficiently integrated.
Facilitate the integration of tools across departments, ensuring that the solutions provided are accessible, scalable, and aligned with organisational goals.
Skills and experience
Education
Advanced degree in Data Science, Fisheries Science, Resource Management, Marine Ecology, or a related field.
Experience
Minimum of 5+ years of experience in data collection tool design, integration, and data analysis, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
Demonstrated experience in designing data collection instruments and working with cross-functional teams to integrate these tools into larger systems.
Proven experience supporting data systems and ensuring data accuracy, security, and accessibility.
Technical Expertise
Strong knowledge of data analysis tools and frameworks and experience in data integration.
Advanced knowledge and experience with KoboToolbox and/or other data collection tools
Proficiency in R, Shiny, Python, and advanced SQL queries for building data analyses and visualisations.
Expertise in developing and implementing data collection methods and ensuring the integration of data from various sources into unified systems.
Experience working with platforms like Smartsheet and collaborative data systems, with strong attention to data quality and validation processes.
Skills and Abilities
Strong project management skills with the ability to oversee multiple projects and coordinate with different teams.
Excellent communication skills, capable of translating complex data and system requirements into clear, actionable solutions.
High attention to detail with a strong commitment to data integrity and the ability to troubleshoot and solve data-related challenges.