Data Architect

Overview

DVSA cannot function without data. The role of the Data Architecture function is to ensure the agency has all the conditions it needs to succeed with data.

Our team makes sure we collect the data our colleagues need, provide access to that data when it’s required, ensure it is fit for purpose, and build the skills and capability to generate real value from it.

This involves establishing strong technical foundations through catalogues, models, and standards, as well as ensuring that data is properly owned, managed, and invested in so it remains fit for purpose.

Our team contributes to the agency’s core objectives by ensuring that public-facing services run effectively and efficiently and by establishing the technical and data foundations needed to keep DVSA fit for the future. DVSA’s digital services are among the best in government, and we work to ensure they remain future-ready, including – supporting the adoption of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Vehicles.

Key responsibilities

The key responsibilities of a Data Architect are:

• Defining the data architecture framework, models, standards, patterns and principles to be used across DVSA.
• Developing a data catalogue to document data used across DVSA. Translating service and business requirements into documented data requirements and flows across DVSA
• Assisting in the development of the DVSA data strategy and roadmap and developing data governance and data management artefacts.
• Developing data measurement initiatives for data condition and remediation.

Learning and development

Our team of Data Architects brings together diverse expertise from across the data spectrum – ranging from data strategy development, governance, and analysis to technical areas such as data engineering and database design.

To succeed as a Data Architect, it’s essential to recognise that data is a valuable, strategic asset and to have the drive to help make DVSA a truly data-centric agency, fit for the future.

We learn from each other through peer collaboration and the wide variety of projects we undertake. In addition, we actively support professional development by encouraging attendance at industry conferences and the pursuit of certifications such as Data Ethics Professional and Certified Data Management Professional.

Case study

“I’ve worked at DVSA for nearly 2 years now as a Senior Data Architect. During this time, I’ve had many exciting opportunities to improve how DVSA works with data, including leading the implementation of our enterprise data catalogue and supporting multiple business areas with their data architecture.  

DVSA is a great place to work, with a good work life balance, whilst still presenting interesting data challenges which give you the opportunity to grow and develop as a data professional.”

Jason Lannigan, Senior Data Architect