Principal Data Analyst

Salary: £68,000 - 108,000 per year

Requirements:

• We require expert experience applying statistical methodologies and analytical techniques to resolve highly complex business problems.
• We require the ability to provide technical leadership, establish analytical standards and governance, and engage stakeholders to communicate findings.
• We require strong experience designing and implementing robust, well-documented, reproducible coded solutions using Python, R, or Base SAS, with the ability to set and promote coding standards and best practice.
• We require the ability to clearly communicate complex analysis to technical and non-technical audiences, influence senior stakeholders, and manage expectations in high-profile or sensitive contexts.
• We require evidence of using data and analysis to deliver measurable business impact, shape analytical questions, and develop scalable data products to support decision-making.
• We require a commitment to high-quality analytical standards, embedding reproducible, auditable, and efficient practices that deliver measurable value.
• We require the ability to build effective relationships across disciplines and work collaboratively with stakeholders.
• We require a proactive approach to continuous improvement and staying current with developments in data science, analytics, and emerging technologies.
• We require successful candidates to hold or be willing to hold Security Check clearance.
• We require applicants to meet the relevant residency and nationality requirements for National Security Vetting.
• We require candidates to be eligible to apply for a role within the Civil Service in line with the stated vetting and eligibility rules.

Responsibilities:

• We provide strategic leadership across complex analytical projects, defining direction, governance, and delivery approaches.
• We establish, champion, and assure analytical standards and methods, ensuring appropriate use of statistical techniques, data modelling, and coding approaches.
• We lead the design and adoption of scalable, reusable analytical products to increase organisational capability, improve efficiency, and support sustainable analytical delivery.
• We lead analytical quality assurance and continuous improvement, embedding robust governance and assurance practices.
• We champion data governance, quality, and ethical use of data, setting and implementing standards across analysis and data management.
• We translate complex analytical evidence into clear recommendations that influence senior decision making.
• We develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and partners to ensure analytical investment delivers measurable outcomes.
• We build organisational capability through leadership, coaching, and talent development to create a high performing culture.
• We support HMRCs mission by using data to deepen understanding of risk, improve compliance strategies, and protect public funds.
• We collaborate across HMRC and other government departments to deliver joined-up, data-driven public service outcomes.

Technologies:

• Support
• Python
• RIS
• SAS
• Security
• LESS

More:

We are HM Revenue and Customs, and this Principal Data Analyst role sits within our Risk and Intelligence Service (RIS). We work across a range of specialist teams using advanced analytics to identify risk, strengthen compliance strategies, and help ensure the right tax is paid. This role offers the opportunity to join our Government Digital and Data community, contributing to digital transformation across government with real-world impact. We offer career development in a collaborative and ambitious environment, flexible and hybrid working, a generous leave allowance, pension contributions, family-friendly policies, coaching, personal support, and development opportunities. The role is available across multiple UK locations, and interviews will take place face to face in Manchester or Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Our offices are designed to support collaboration and learning, with colleagues generally expected to spend 60% of their time in the office.

last updated 35 week of 2026