NHS Business Services Authority

Assistant Development Advisor - Data and Technology

The closing date is 31 August 2025

Job summary

As the NHS Workforce solution moves into a transformational new era there is an exciting opportunity to join the national ESR Team, responsible for delivery of the largest HR, Payroll and Learning management solution and service in the World, to support the next exciting chapter in Workforce Services at NHSBSA.

The Department of Health and Social Care has commissioned the NHSBSA to lead the Future NHS Workforce Solution Transformation Programme, to identify and deliver the Future NHS Workforce Solution to over 1.8 million NHS colleagues in England and Wales. Future NHS Workforce Solution Transformation Programme | NHSBSA

It is anticipated that the new supplier will be chosen by Autumn 2025, beginning a significant transitional period as they take on responsibility for running the existing service, whilst configuring the Future Workforce Solution in parallel.

Consequently, we are seeking additional Development Advisors to support the various workstreams across the ESR Operations and Development team to ensure that we continue to deliver a world-class service to our users throughout a period of significant transition. You will become part of a team of subject matter experts working directly with users, external stakeholders and suppliers to ensure that the current solution continues to meet and exceed expectations.

Interviews are expected to be held mid-September 2025 via Microsoft Teams.

Main duties of the job

You will work within a dedicated team of subject matter experts to deliver a World-class service. You will be able to demonstrate these essential skills and knowledge:

Have excellent data analysis skills

Be proficient in Python including the use of data analysis libraries and automation of processes

Be committed to ensuring that ESR is the best possible solution for all our user organisations and employees

Have the ability to translate business requirements into clear data requirements to provide data or reports

Excellent written and verbal communication

Attention to detail and high standards of accuracy in both written and verbal work.

Self motivated, proactive, and tenacious with high level of customer focus

Networking skills, ability to form and develop close working relationships and deal with people from all levels

Ability to discuss and present to senior stakeholders

Strong planning and organisational skills.

However, as I mentioned on Wednesday I was intended to put less focus on 'ESR knowledge' as it's likely we'll be putting off good candidates who have the skill-set to be successful in the role.

About us

Here at the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA), what we do matters.

We manage the NHS Pension scheme, process prescription payments and much more. Our services are used by NHS organisations, contractors and the public: we're proud to be part of something meaningful, that touches millions of lives.

We design our services around customer needs and place people at the heart of our organisation. That's why when you join us, you'll be empowered and supported to help your career grow.

As one of the UK's Best Big Companies to work for, we're connected to our values: Collaborative, Adventurous, Reliable and Energetic. We care about our people, our purpose, and your progress.

We strive to offer a fantastic colleague experience, where every colleague is heard, supported and respected. Wellbeing, diversity and inclusion is at the centre of this, and you can join our Lived Experience Networks who help us bring our authentic selves to work.

We're committed to being a flexible employer and we try to offer a working pattern that suits you where possible, through hybrid working, flexible hours and more.

Alongside a competitive salary with pay progression, we offer a people-centric benefits package, connecting you to the rewards and benefits you value most!

Ready to join us in delivering business service excellence to the NHS, helping people live longer, healthier lives? Apply today and see where the NHSBSA can take you.

We are people connected to care.

Details

Date posted

15 August 2025

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 7

Salary

£47,810 to £54,710 a year

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

914-BSA7407406

Job locations

Home based

Home based

NE15 8NY


Job description

Job responsibilities

To work as a member of the NHS Development and Operations Team with particular focus on Data and Technology.

To communicate with a wide range of stakeholders including national NHS bodies,

To participate in quality assurance of the ESR solution and work with NHS sites, providing advice, guidance, and feedback to issues raised. In addition you may be required to work with other NHS organisations and external agencies.

To manage a team of Data Analysts to ensure the timely and accurate delivery of data related activities within the NHS Development Team. This includes optimising the use of available tools such as SQL Server and ESRBI, and promoting the automation of processes wherever feasible.

To support the team in progressing to open and advanced methodology of extracting and analysing data, including moving to open source tooling (where appropriate) and using proven source code management systems.

To ensure the ongoing assessment and improvement of data integrity within ESR, enabling the system to deliver its intended business benefits effectively.

To oversee the secure and timely completion of data analysis tasks and data requests, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and deadlines.

To supervise the design, development, and testing of analytical tools and data solutions, maximising team performance and ensuring high standards of accuracy and efficiency.

In this role, you are accountable for:

Project and Risk Management

Plan, monitor, and report on projects throughout their lifecycle, including the identification and management of risks, issues, and incidents.

Resolving issues/risks as raised through analysis and extraction processes

Stakeholder Engagement and Solution Development

Collaborate with NHS organisations and the ESR supplier to analyse and specify requirements for system enhancements, with a focus on technology strategies and workforce information.

Understanding the benefits of ESR as far as possible to understand the ESR fit within the wider NHS context and to act as an ambassador.

Specialist Data Support and Advice

Provide expert advice and guidance on workforce data to NHS organisations, supporting the wider team in understanding ESR technologies and their application within the NHS context.

Supporting the wider team in understanding the technologies used by ESR to ensure decisions on future changes or direction are fully understood.

Data Quality and System Knowledge

Maintain a comprehensive understanding of ESR modules, interfaces, and national initiatives.

Ensure data integrity through defined processes for identifying and resolving data issues.

Taking responsibility for deployment release reviews, identifying upcoming developments requiring further analysis, through to the production of dashboards and statistics, covering uptake and utilisation and cost/time saving savings where appropriate.

Data Analysis and Tool Development

Lead the development and use of tools for data extraction, analysis, and cleansing. Oversee the production of dashboards and reports to support decision-making and demonstrate benefits such as cost and time savings.

Review processes across the data team and, where appropriate across the wider team to assess whether improvements in automation may be possible.

Team Leadership and Line Management

Manage a team of Band 6 Data Analysts, including task allocation, performance monitoring, peer review, professional development, and leave approval.

Ensure timely and high-quality delivery of all assigned work.

Communication and Reporting

Ensure effective communication with NHS organisations and internal teams.

Accurately report team progress and data activities to the Senior Development Advisor and within the broader reporting structure.

Job description

Job responsibilities

To work as a member of the NHS Development and Operations Team with particular focus on Data and Technology.

To communicate with a wide range of stakeholders including national NHS bodies,

To participate in quality assurance of the ESR solution and work with NHS sites, providing advice, guidance, and feedback to issues raised. In addition you may be required to work with other NHS organisations and external agencies.

To manage a team of Data Analysts to ensure the timely and accurate delivery of data related activities within the NHS Development Team. This includes optimising the use of available tools such as SQL Server and ESRBI, and promoting the automation of processes wherever feasible.

To support the team in progressing to open and advanced methodology of extracting and analysing data, including moving to open source tooling (where appropriate) and using proven source code management systems.

To ensure the ongoing assessment and improvement of data integrity within ESR, enabling the system to deliver its intended business benefits effectively.

To oversee the secure and timely completion of data analysis tasks and data requests, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and deadlines.

To supervise the design, development, and testing of analytical tools and data solutions, maximising team performance and ensuring high standards of accuracy and efficiency.

In this role, you are accountable for:

Project and Risk Management

Plan, monitor, and report on projects throughout their lifecycle, including the identification and management of risks, issues, and incidents.

Resolving issues/risks as raised through analysis and extraction processes

Stakeholder Engagement and Solution Development

Collaborate with NHS organisations and the ESR supplier to analyse and specify requirements for system enhancements, with a focus on technology strategies and workforce information.

Understanding the benefits of ESR as far as possible to understand the ESR fit within the wider NHS context and to act as an ambassador.

Specialist Data Support and Advice

Provide expert advice and guidance on workforce data to NHS organisations, supporting the wider team in understanding ESR technologies and their application within the NHS context.

Supporting the wider team in understanding the technologies used by ESR to ensure decisions on future changes or direction are fully understood.

Data Quality and System Knowledge

Maintain a comprehensive understanding of ESR modules, interfaces, and national initiatives.

Ensure data integrity through defined processes for identifying and resolving data issues.

Taking responsibility for deployment release reviews, identifying upcoming developments requiring further analysis, through to the production of dashboards and statistics, covering uptake and utilisation and cost/time saving savings where appropriate.

Data Analysis and Tool Development

Lead the development and use of tools for data extraction, analysis, and cleansing. Oversee the production of dashboards and reports to support decision-making and demonstrate benefits such as cost and time savings.

Review processes across the data team and, where appropriate across the wider team to assess whether improvements in automation may be possible.

Team Leadership and Line Management

Manage a team of Band 6 Data Analysts, including task allocation, performance monitoring, peer review, professional development, and leave approval.

Ensure timely and high-quality delivery of all assigned work.

Communication and Reporting

Ensure effective communication with NHS organisations and internal teams.

Accurately report team progress and data activities to the Senior Development Advisor and within the broader reporting structure.

Person Specification

Personal Qualities, Knowledge and Skills

Essential

  • Knowledge of ESR and the NHS. Specifically in reporting and workforce.
  • Technical abilities, specifically MS Office, Python, Automation, APIs
  • Data Management Abilities, SQL, Oracle, MS Sql Server
  • Strong problem solving skills - ability to identify and evaluate all options pragmatically and look for alternative solutions or strategies.
  • Excellent communication skills, with ability to discuss and explain complex topics with senior stakeholders

Experience

Essential

  • Managing and Tracking Data Projects and teams to produce data analysis activities
  • Experience of designing tests and testing strategies to ensure developments/data are correct and meet requirements

Qualifications

Essential

  • Degree level or equivalent
Person Specification

Personal Qualities, Knowledge and Skills

Essential

  • Knowledge of ESR and the NHS. Specifically in reporting and workforce.
  • Technical abilities, specifically MS Office, Python, Automation, APIs
  • Data Management Abilities, SQL, Oracle, MS Sql Server
  • Strong problem solving skills - ability to identify and evaluate all options pragmatically and look for alternative solutions or strategies.
  • Excellent communication skills, with ability to discuss and explain complex topics with senior stakeholders

Experience

Essential

  • Managing and Tracking Data Projects and teams to produce data analysis activities
  • Experience of designing tests and testing strategies to ensure developments/data are correct and meet requirements

Qualifications

Essential

  • Degree level or equivalent

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

Additional information

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

Employer details

Employer name

NHS Business Services Authority

Address

Home based

Home based

NE15 8NY


Employer's website

https://careers.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)


Employer details

Employer name

NHS Business Services Authority

Address

Home based

Home based

NE15 8NY


Employer's website

https://careers.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)


Employer contact details

For questions about the job, contact:

Senior Development Advisor

James Haddon

James.haddon@nhsbsa.nhs.uk

07971472541

Details

Date posted

15 August 2025

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 7

Salary

£47,810 to £54,710 a year

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

914-BSA7407406

Job locations

Home based

Home based

NE15 8NY


Supporting documents

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