Data and Performance Analyst

Job Title: Data and performance Analyst Rate: £180 per day Location: Local Authority, hybrid working Contract: Initial contract with potential extension Job Description Overview A Local Authority is seeking a Data Analyst to support the Strategy, Performance and Insight team. The role will focus on providing accurate, timely and meaningful data, research and performance insights to support evidence based decision making across the Council. You will work closely with senior managers and service areas, particularly within Children's Services and Education, to analyse performance data, identify trends, and support improvements in service delivery. The role will also contribute to statutory reporting, benchmarking exercises and the development of automated performance reporting. Key Responsibilities Performance Analysis and Insight Analyse performance management data to identify trends, issues and areas for improvement across council services. Develop and monitor performance indicators and targets to support service improvement. Provide clear and accurate management information to senior leadership and service managers. Support needs assessments and research activities to help the council better understand local needs and service demand. Education Data and Statutory Returns Support Children's Services, particularly Education, with data analysis and reporting. Assist with statutory education returns such as School Census, CME (Children Missing Education), EHE (Elective Home Education) and Key Stage collections. Ensure data submissions meet regulatory and statutory requirements. Reporting and Data Management Collate, analyse and present data for performance reports, dashboards and management briefings. Streamline and automate performance reporting where possible through self service tools and reporting platforms. Ensure data quality, accuracy and consistency across reporting outputs. Benchmarking and Collaboration Work with London Councils, Central Government and other Local Authorities to benchmark performance and share best practice. Support preparation for inspections and external assessments through robust data analysis. Contribute to open data initiatives and performance transparency through web based reporting. Data Governance and Process Improvement Support the development of policies and procedures relating to data handling, information sharing and performance reporting. Ensure compliance with statutory obligations including GDPR, FOI and Equalities reporting requirements. Identify opportunities to improve systems, reporting processes and the use of technology to deliver efficient services. Skills and Experience Required Essential Experience working as a Data Analyst, Performance Analyst or Reporting Analyst. Strong data analysis and performance reporting skills. Experience working with large datasets and producing management information and dashboards. Advanced Excel and data analysis capability. Experience working within Local Government, public sector or education data environments. Ability to communicate complex data clearly to non technical stakeholders. *Rates depend on experience and client requirements