As the Assistant Director of Institutional Research and Reporting (IRR), you will lead advanced analytics and AI initiatives that shape the future of higher education. This role is pivotal in leading data initiatives, developing and operationalising predictive AI models, and providing actionable insights to support decision-making at the highest levels.

Key Responsibilities

AI Model Development and Maintenance

Design and develop advanced machine learning models and algorithms for analytics and forecasting, combining data from multiple data sets to provide business value. Conduct tests on data and AI models, deploy and continuous monitor and update models for scaling and optimal performance.    

Collaborative Development of Data and AI Solutions
Partner with IT, academic leadership, and corporate leadership to align data strategy with institutional goals. Design and develop core data and AI solutions for business use cases 

Data Analysis and Insight Communication

Conduct analysis to identify trends, patterns, and deliver actionable insights that support the university's operations. Regularly present findings to senior leadership and external stakeholders, translating complex analytics into strategic recommendations.  

Data Quality and Governance Support

Lead data governance initiatives and implement quality control measures to ensure compliance with policies and ensure data integrity and accuracy  

Team Leadership and Mentorship

Develop best practices for a data analyst team and provide leadership and management for a data analyst team which may include external vendors. Provide mentorship for junior analysts. 

Innovation and Best Practices

Stay current and share industry trends and put in place best practices in data analysis and higher education to improve effectiveness and efficiencies.   

Engagement

Participate and lead Division / Corporate activities in order to improve efficiencies / engagement within the division and across SIT.  

Job requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or related field. Master’s preferred.
• Minimum 8 years in data analytics or data science, ideally in an educational setting. Leadership experience preferred.
• Proven experience as a Data Analyst or in a similar role, preferably in an educational setting.
• Strong proficiency in data analysis and visualisation tools such as SQL, R, Python, and Power BI, and machine learning frameworks
• Familiarity with relevant software platforms on which the solution is deployed on
• Familiarity with Machine Learning Ops implementation
• Strong analytical ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and data storytelling skills with the ability to present and influence senior leadership
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to data accuracy and integrity.
• Knowledge of database, ETL and data API concepts.