1. Recruitment Information Pack
Analytical Section Head – Band 8b

2. About NHS Digital
NHS Digital is the national information and technology provider for the health and care system. Our team of 2,700 information analysis, technology and project management experts create, deliver and manage the crucial digital systems, services, products and standards upon which health and care professionals depend, working in partnership with both national and local organisations. Our vision is to harness the power of information and technology to provide better health and care.

3. Role Profile About This Role
About This Role
The Analytical Section Head (GSG) is a key role in defining the data requirements and in turning the information collected into high quality statistical outputs for use by a range of customers and stakeholders. The health and care sector depends on high quality information and analysis as the evidence base on which policy decisions are made.
The Analytical Section Head will:
Lead a team of analytical staff to provide advice and support to customers on a wide range of high profile issues.
Oversee the preparation and delivery of analytical solutions, often including the publication of Official and / or National Statistics, evaluating multiple methods in order to produce solutions which best fit the needs of the customer.
Make long term plans, with reference to other areas and the impact plans may have on them, as well as allowing for flexibility in order to adapt to rapid changes in requirements or priorities.
Operate within data and information standards, such as the UK Statistics Authority Code of Practice, Data Protection Act, Freedom of Information Act, providing advice on issues such as appropriate methods, presentation and statistical disclosure control.
Be responsible for information systems which collect, store, process or disseminate data, liaising with the appropriate experts across the organisation.
Keep abreast of new developments in government statistics and relevant policy subject area, identifying areas which can be improved.

4. Team structures
Chief Statistician
Head of Information and Analysis
Information Analysis Lead Manager
This Post
Team members from Information Analysis and Statistics and other professional groups
Other Analytical Section Heads
Information Analysis Lead Manger
Analytical Section Heads
Analytical Sections Heads are responsible for the day-to-day operational management of our analytical teams, including the requirement to undertake duties required as a GSG Responsible Statistician.
These roles work across a number of themes including:
Secondary Care
Mental Health
Adult Social Care
Primary Care
Community Services
Maternity
Workforce
Public Health
Prescribing
Estates
Clinical Audit
Clinical Indicators
Successful candidates would be assigned to one of these theme areas.

5. About You Professional Competencies
Knowledge, Skills and Qualifications
Values and Behaviours
You should provide details of your experience at senior level in the following competencies:
Acquiring data / understanding customer needs. Leads and supports the team in acquiring the appropriate data to deliver customer needs, either through effective use of existing data sources or through innovative techniques for acquiring new data, including through surveys.
Data analysis. Highly skilled in using data analysis techniques (such as logistical regression, time series analysis) and interpretation to provide analytical evidence tailored to meet the needs of different customers and policy colleagues.
Presenting and disseminating data effectively. Champions innovative ways of presenting statistics and disseminating data for use with internal and external customers and stakeholders.
Working with credibility. Operates with credibility, is accountable for the work of the team, and is an advocate for best practice in statistical and analyses within the legal framework for statistical work.
Setting direction. Understands the political environment and ensure that the work of the team is aligned to that view, adapting as necessary. Make effective decisions.
Engaging people. Confidently engages with stakeholders and colleagues at all levels to progress on objectives, develops staff so that they can maximise their potential.
Delivering results. Delivers a timely, quality service within agreed financial position, challenging as necessary to deliver value for money.
Educated to Master’s level in relevant subject or equivalent level of experience of working at very senior level in a specialist area.
Knowledge of professional standards (e.g. UK Statistics Authority Code of Practice, Data Protection Act, Freedom of Information Act) and their application.
Current or attainment of Membership to the Government Statistical Group (GSG).
Ability to communicate complex and technical concepts and issues to non-technical colleagues, customers, stakeholders and potential customers at all levels
People Focused: You value and promote positive relationships with colleagues, customers and the public and are responsive to their needs.
Trustworthy: You act with integrity, impartiality and openness and in the best interests of the public.
Professional: You deliver on your commitments by applying the highest levels of expertise, conduct and personal responsibility.
Innovative: You actively embrace change and bring new ideas to deliver excellent services for your customers and better outcomes for the public.
About You

6. GSG Responsible Statistician (AfC 8b / Grade 7)
Professional Competences:
Your application will need to demonstrate how you meet the required technical competences. The Competency Framework for the Government Statistical Group (GSG) is provided (link).
Please refer to this when making your application
Professional competencies required - Government Statistical Group competencies at Level 3
Acquiring data / Understanding customer needs
Data Analysis
Presenting and disseminating data effectively
Working with credibility
Candidates who are not already ‘badged’ as a GSG member would be expected to complete an additional statistical test.
The interview panel will also consist of an independent external GSG assessor.
Additional Information
Competency Framework
GSG Matrix (level 3)
Continual Professional Development (GSG)

7. The Terms and Conditions
Benefits
The Opportunities
You can contribute to our organisation-wide Information Analysis & Statistics Professional Group which encourages its members to take the time to focus upon Continuous Professional Development.
You will benefit from a real commitment to your personal and professional development. A twice yearly Performance Development Review process focuses upon your professional competencies and identifies opportunities for improvement.
Our members of staff use the Civil Service Learning portal which allows access to the best training courses across government.
The Terms and Conditions
A competitive salary – Agenda for Change Band 8b (Grade 7 equivalent)
Flexible working applications considered.
Family friendly benefits.
Annual leave starting at 27 days per annum plus statutory bank holidays rising to 33 days with service.
An excellent contributory pension scheme.

8. Our Vision, values and behaviours
We believe that the way we do things at NHS Digital is as important as what we do.  That's why our values form part of people's continuing professional development.
The actions and behaviours of everyone who works at NHS Digital is guided by our core values: