Head of Data

Requirements of the role

The FCA is recruiting an exciting role, Head of Data, to support our ambition be a data-led regulator of the future. Having embarked on our digital transformation in 2020, this role will build on a strong data foundation, and bring our data strategy to the next level, helping the FCA to harness data effectively leading to better regulatory decisions and outcomes across the financial services sector.

With a broad and evolving remit, the FCA’s goal is to be a world leader in data-driven financial regulation, leveraging technology and data to provide improved firm data collection services alongside a wide range of data sources to deliver business intelligence.

Our ambitious data and technology programmes are designed to enhance our ability to regulate UK financial services firms, detect misconduct, and drive better market outcomes. As Head of Data, reporting to the Director of Intelligence and Digital, you will play a pivotal role in leading and maximising the FCA’s use of economic, firm, and market data. You will be accountable for delivering high-profile, complex, and strategically significant initiatives that have data at their core—spanning technology, policy, regulatory transformation, and enterprise data capabilities.

This role sits within the Data, Technology, and Innovation Division led by Jessica Rusu the Chief Data, Information and Intelligence Officer, and resides in the Intelligence and Digital Directorate, a specialised team combining Innovation, Data, Digital, Intelligence, and Advanced Analytics to deliver a fast-moving, agile, and high-impact environment at the forefront of shaping the FCA’s regulatory future. You will work partner across the DTI division Technology and Product Development teams, and across the FCA,  as well as externally with regulated firms, academia, government, and technology leaders to drive our data-led regulatory vision.

As Head of Department, you will have a unique opportunity to:

• Shape the FCA in our data-led practices and priorities, ensuring that data is at the heart of regulatory decision-making
• Lead and inspire a diverse and talented team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence
• Work with cutting edge technology, in a cloud environment, leveraging AI and a suite of digital tools
• Develop innovative, impactful solutions that enhance the way we regulate financial services
• Influence strategic priorities, embedding data-driven approaches across the FCA and shaping the future of financial regulation
• Be a thought leader in data, with visible public speaking engagements to support the FCA’s Strategy

This is a high-impact leadership role—ideal for an experienced data-driven leader who thrives on tackling complex challenges, driving innovation, and making a tangible impact on the future of financial regulation.

The FCA has retained Gatenby Sanderson to advise on this appointment.

Please apply by submitting your CV and cover letter via this link

https://gatenbysanderson-fca.co.uk/

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Data Function – Provide strategic leadership for data capabilities across the organisation, ensuring alignment with our regulatory objectives.
• Drive Data-Led Regulation – Develop and implement innovative data strategies that enhance our ability to regulate effectively and efficiently.
• Build and Lead a High-Performing Team – Inspire, develop, and manage a team of data specialists, ensuring they have the skills and support to excel.
• Shape Policy and Strategy – Influence the organisation’s approach to data governance, analytics, and technology adoption.
• Collaborate Across the Organisation – Work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure our data capabilities are integrated into key regulatory processes and decision-making.
• Partnership with Organisational Capability on effective implementation and positioning of the Data Skills Programme for our workforce.
• Build Trust in Data by ensuring Data Integrity and Governance – Oversee the management of data quality, governance, and ethical use of data in regulatory activities.
• Champion Innovation and Best Practices – Stay ahead of emerging trends in data, AI, and analytics, ensuring the organisation remains at the cutting edge of data-led regulation.

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