Interim Data Lead

Assess existing systems, data sources, data flows and quality issues across busi

Define a practical master data strategy, including common definitions, standards

6 month Outside IR35 day rate contract £550 per day Greater Manchester

Interim Data Lead - Business Transformation project - Azure, Data Quality & Governance

Outside IR35 day rate contract up to £550 for an initial 6-month assignment. Hybrid model with 3 days in the offices located in Greater Manchester. An established UK business operating across multiple sites is seeking an experienced Interim Data Lead to take ownership of the data workstream within a significant business transformation programme. Based in Greater Manchester with a hybrid working arrangement (minimum three days office-based per week), this full-time temporary role offers the chance to make a real impact on a fragmented data landscape. Reporting to the Business Transformation Lead, you'll combine practical data leadership with hands-on technical delivery across a Microsoft Azure and SQL environment.

We are recruiting an Interim Data Lead for an established UK business embarking on a business transformation programme. With disparate systems, inconsistent records and a predominantly Microsoft Azure and SQL environment, the business needs an experienced contractor to take ownership of its data workstream and establish a trusted foundation for future processes and systems.

The assignment

Reporting to the Business Transformation Lead, you will assess the current landscape, prioritise data quality improvements and define a practical master data strategy. You will work with department heads to establish data ownership, common definitions and sustainable governance, while providing the hands-on technical capability to progress the agreed single source of truth approach.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Owning the data workstream and its delivery priorities.
• Assessing data sources, flows and quality issues across business functions.
• Leading cleansing, de-duplication, standardisation and validation.
• Defining master data standards, ownership and a business data dictionary.
• Shaping the architecture and integration approach for trusted, consolidated data.
• Undertaking hands-on SQL analysis and agreed technical delivery.
• Establishing practical governance and measurable data quality controls.
• Preparing data for future processes and potential systems migration.
• Documenting solutions and transferring knowledge to the business.

What we’re looking for

• Experience leading data workstreams within transformation or systems implementation programmes.
• Strong practical knowledge of data governance, master data management and data quality.
• Hands-on SQL capability and experience in Microsoft Azure environments.
• Experience resolving data issues across fragmented or legacy systems.
• The ability to combine architectural thinking with practical delivery.
• Confident communication and workshop facilitation across business and technical teams.
• A self-sufficient approach and the ability to deliver within limited resources.
• Experience of ERP, equipment hire, manufacturing, field service or other operational businesses would be advantageous.

The role is hybrid, with a minimum of three office days per week and travel to other sites or partner locations when required. To apply, send your CV with your availability, day-rate expectations and confirmation that you can meet the onsite requirements. Please highlight a recent assignment where you combined hands-on data delivery with governance and business ownership.