Senior Data Policy Manager role
Join the SDR UK team
Smart Data Research UK is recruiting for a new Senior Data Policy Manager (Legal and Responsible Research) to develop and manage resources for legal and responsible practice across our programme. The Senior Data Policy Manager will also play a key role in promoting responsible research practices within the ESRC.
The post holder will enable SDR UK to identify, discuss and resolve emerging questions regarding public trust, transparency and legal compliance, to ensure sound expert advice informs the development of the programme.
You will keep up to date on the latest legal and responsible practice questions raised by the smart data research community (companies, academics, innovators and government) and work with relevant stakeholders across ESRC, UKRI and beyond to help address some of the biggest barriers to conducting smart data research. The role will not provide formal legal advice but will work with lawyers to commission legal advice if necessary.
In addition to establishing and managing a new ethics and legal steering group, the post holder will have the opportunity to lead the development of new practical guidance and position statements that effectively aid smart data research for public good.
This position plays a critical role in guiding compliance within SDR UK and contributing to informed decision-making and effective legal practice.
The post is based at our Swindon office, but we operate a hybrid approach, and you can expect a mix of working from home, the office, and external locations. The role also requires travel to attend external visits and meetings.
About you
We know that many people hesitate to submit a job application if they feel they don’t meet all the criteria. If you are passionate about Smart Data Research UK’s mission and you possess most of the skills or experience, we encourage you to proceed with your application. We’d love to hear from you!
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead on developing, managing and critically assessing specific resources related to legal and responsible research. This includes leading the steering group that supports legal and responsible practice for SDR UK and its core services, addressing some of the biggest legal and ethics issues facing the smart data research community.
- Lead on providing clarity on emerging legal and responsible research issues through the development of practical guidance, tools, position statements, and other resources.
- Build and foster strong relationships working across ESRC, UKRI and beyond, including with academics, lawyers, government, civil society and other stakeholders to support and develop SDR UK’s legal and responsible research programme of work.
- Demonstrate and communicate the impact of legal and responsible research practices via writing blogs and other public-facing content.
- Track new legal or trust issues in smart-data research. Turn those issues into clear, practical guidance, tools, and position statements.
- Where necessary, procuring and managing timely legal advice.
Apply now
To read the full job description and apply now, visit the UKRI jobs portal. The closing date for applications is 5 September 2025.
