Functional Data Management Lead – Support & Services

Job Description

Job Title: Functional Data Management Lead – Support & Services

Location: Warton

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role

Salary: £63,310+ depending on experience

Job Description:

The Functional Data Management Lead is responsible for establishing and leading a robust data management capability within the Support & Services Service Delivery Unit, ensuring the successful delivery of the organisation’s data strategy. The role focuses on maintaining data governance, quality, and processes by implementing policies, managing tools, and developing team capability. On a day-to-day basis, it involves leading a network of data stewards, driving data quality initiatives such as audits and improvements, and maintaining the overall data architecture. The role also requires close collaboration with business and project teams to resolve data issues and deliver accurate, reliable product data that supports operational performance and key programmes.

Core duties:

• Deliver the strategically important 3-year change programme for Data Management (People, Process & Tools) the achievement of which directly impacts the £6.2bn support IBP (63% of total Air IBP) and also impacts the delivery of contracted support outputs to our customers.
• Maintain the S&S Data Strategy in collaboration with key stakeholders from the Engineering Function, IM&T, the Chief Data Office and the enterprise shared service such that the capability transformation can contribute in a stepped approach to achieve it.
• Co-ordinate cross-functional, multi-organisational, internal/external change team charged with developing/implementing the new/improved cross functional capability (People Process & Tools) in line with the strategy.
• Deploy capability into each project team in each line of business, superseding extant legacy solutions bespoke to individual projects/lines of business.
• Manage project stakeholders up to line of business MD level who have an interest in the change project.
• Ensure governance is maintained for capability development, to satisfy extant Engineering Functional governance, including alternative means of compliance if required. This is to enable S&S Function progress, in a cross functional model (i.e. avoid / limit duplication of governance, or disproportionate governance to risk)”

Essential Skills:

• Proven experience leading complex and virtual teams, with strong business acumen
• Solid understanding of data management principles (aligned to Data Management Body of Knowledge)
• Experience in supportability engineering and through-life technical information
• Knowledge of platform availability drivers (e.g. LSAR, maintenance planning, supply chain planning, information architectures)
• Good understanding of the engineering lifecycle and system-of-systems interactions
• STEM degree preferred, or equivalent relevant experience

The Support & Services Service Delivery Team:

You’ll be joining the Support & Services Service Delivery Unit at a pivotal time, playing a central role in delivering and evolving the organisation’s data strategy. This function is responsible for establishing and maintaining a robust Functional Data Management capability that underpins critical support activities across current and future programmes, ensuring high-quality, reliable data is available to drive product performance and service delivery. Working at the heart of the organisation, you’ll lead a core team of data specialists while also coordinating a wider virtual network of data stewards embedded across the business. The role offers broad exposure across the Engineering Business Unit, engaging with senior stakeholders and cross-functional teams to drive data quality, governance, and continuous improvement, supporting key initiatives and major infrastructure programmes such as Project Spartan.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work, this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family, support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive:

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.

Closing Date: 10th April 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

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