Chief Data and Analytics Officer

Lead the data and analytics transformation of the NHS

NHS England is seeking an exceptional Interim Chief Data & Analytics Officer (CDAO) to provide national leadership at a pivotal moment for the health and care system. This is a rare opportunity to shape how data, analytics and emerging technologies are used at scale to improve patient outcomes, reduce inequalities and support the sustainability of the NHS.

Last year, the Government announced that NHS England will gradually merge with the Department of Health and Social Care, to create a smaller, more strategic centre that reduces duplication and waste. As the two organisations come together, there is an opportunity to reshape how technology, digital, and data services are delivered across the health and social care system.

This executive-level interim role sits at the heart of government, policy and delivery—offering significant scope, influence and challenge for a senior leader with a strong track record in data-driven transformation.

The role

Reporting to the Director General for Technology, Digital and Data
, the Interim CDAO is accountable for building and leading a world-class Data and Analytics function for NHS England and the wider health and care system. You will work in partnership with the Chief Information Officer, under the DG, to deliver the Digital, Data and Technology programmes of work.

You will provide strategic and professional leadership for national data and analytics services, ensuring that high-quality, timely and secure data underpins clinical care, operational performance, planning, research and innovation. Working in close partnership with the Chief Information Officer and senior leaders across government, regions and Integrated Care Systems, you will help move the NHS decisively from analogue to digital.

The role carries responsibility for major national programmes, significant investment, and stewardship of sensitive health data on behalf of citizens.

Our staff bring expertise across clinical, operational, commissioning, technology, data science, cyber security, software engineering, education, and commercial specialisms -- enabling us to design and deliver high-quality NHS services.

We lead the NHS in England by:

• Enabling local systems and providers to improve the health of their people and patients and reduce health inequalities
• Making the NHS a great place to work, where people can develop and make a difference
• Working collaboratively to ensure our healthcare workforce has the right knowledge, skills, values and behaviours to deliver accessible, compassionate care
• Optimising the use of digital technology, research, and innovation

In 2025, the Government announced that NHS England will gradually merge with the Department of Health and Social Care, to create a smaller, more strategic centre that reduces duplication and waste.

If successful at interview, we will initiate an Inter Authority Transfer (IAT) via the Electronic Staff Record (ESR). This retrieves key data from your current or previous NHS employer to support onboarding, including competency status, Continuous Service Dates (CSD), and annual leave entitlement. You may opt out at any stage of the process.

Colleagues with a contractual office base are expected to spend, on average, at least 40% of their time working in-person.

Staff recruited from outside the NHS will usually be appointed at the bottom of the pay band.

Key priorities

As Interim CDAO, you will:

• Set the strategic direction for data, analytics and insight across the NHS in England
• Support ministers, Joint Executive Team, and colleagues at all levels to successfully deliver the DHSC-NHSE Transformation programme.
• Lead major national transformation programmes that improve decision-making, productivity and patient care
• Champion the ethical, safe and transparent use of health data, building and maintaining public trust
• Strengthen systemwide data quality, interoperability and analytical capability
• Provide thought leadership on the use of advanced analytics, AI and emerging technologies in health and care
• Build, lead and inspire senior data and analytics professionals across a complex national system

This is a highly visible role, requiring confidence operating in a complex, politically aware environment and the ability to deliver at pace through collaboration and influence.

Who we are looking for

This interim opportunity will appeal to an established Chief Data Officer, Chief Analytics Officer, Chief Digital Officer or equivalent
, with experience operating at board or enterprise level in large, complex and regulated organisations.

You are likely to bring:

• A strong track record of leading data, analytics or digital transformation at scale
• Deep understanding of data strategy, analytics, governance and modern data platforms
• Credibility with senior stakeholders, including ministers, executives, clinicians and external partners
• Experience balancing innovation with risk, assurance and public…