Data Custodian Senior Manager

Overview

Data Custodian Senior Manager role at Leonardo, within the GCAP Joint Venture (Edgewing). The position is based at GCAP HQ in Reading, UK, and focuses on managing and overseeing data control, storage, accessibility, tracking processes, and procedures across the GCAP JV organization to enable data as a strategic asset for business decision‑making and digital transformation.

The role supports the GCAP JV Head of Data in delivering the GCAP JV Data and Insights Value Stream.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee data control, storage, accessibility, tracking, and procedures across the GCAP JV organization.
• Ensure enduring access to GCAP data while enabling data use for strategic decision‑making and digital transformation.
• Support delivery of the GCAP JV Data and Insights Value Stream in collaboration with the Head of Data.
• Align with Digital / IT Operating Model (ITOM) Principles, including delivering technology leadership capabilities and SIAM capabilities internally, and prioritising internal data and insights capabilities within the Joint Venture.
• Deliver end‑user touchpoints through internal resources.

Essential Skills, Experience and Qualifications

• Evidence of >5 years of leadership experience in digital or data disciplines.
• Relevant up‑to‑date leadership and management training; evidence of recent continuous professional development.
• Ability to gain and maintain UK security clearances.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher (preferably in Data Science, Information Technology, Knowledge Management, or related STEM field).
• 3+ years of experience in data storage design and management, including formulating and auditing data archive policies.
• Expertise in Knowledge Management Systems, Information Management, and secure data movement through enterprise tools and environments.
• Knowledge of data storage systems (RDBMS, NoSQL, data warehouses) and data exchange technologies (API, ETL, data replication).
• Knowledge of cloud storage services (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform).
• Experience developing frameworks and leading major change to improve service delivery for the JV.
• High ethical standards when handling confidential information.
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills; ability to write reports and emails clearly.
• Experience monitoring and improving data quality; developing educational programs on data custody and knowledge management.
• Proficiency with major Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and respond to challenges with effective solutions.
• Expert knowledge of Data Custodian ethics, agile working, and up‑to‑date data protocols.
• Understanding of regulations and industry standards (e.g., UK GDPR) and experience developing processes/policies and supporting external compliance audits.
• Experience leading collaborative, co‑design/co‑production initiatives with stakeholders inside and outside the organization.
• Ability to develop long‑term strategic thinking and translate complex ideas into user‑friendly information.
• Strong integrity, rapport, and ability to influence outcomes.

Desirable Skills, Experience and Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Data Science, MBA, or relevant discipline (preferred).
• Professional membership in STEM‑related organizations (e.g., IET, RSES).

Seniority level

• Senior

Employment type

• Full-time

Industries

• Defense and Space Manufacturing