Computers play a major role in storing and retrieving information in all local authority departments. Information technology helps councils control the mass of data they need for the efficient delivery of services. One council function for which accurate data is required is the fund bidding process. Co-ordinating the collection, collation and analysis of specific data and operating appropriate systems for managing data storage on behalf of the corporate bidding unit (CBU) is the job of the data management officer.

Officers will advise clients about access to relevant data and funding sources to support bidding and project development activity: matching bid development with available funding. The post is usually based in county councils.

Work Environment

Data management officers work as part of the CBU team which includes the head of the unit, funding development managers and project managers. There is also regular interaction with chief officers, senior officers in all departments and IT staff, including data preparation supervisors. External contacts include civil servants, regional and local partnerships, and grant givers. It is an office based job with movement between the various council services and external meetings as required. The hours are standard at 37 per week, but there is some evening and weekend work required. It is a very pressurized environment.

Daily Activities

The key tasks are:

• developing and maintaining a comprehensive database of grant giving sources in conjunction with internal and external partners
• setting up and maintaining a database for monitoring the progress of bids and their implementation
• managing enquiries from fund seekers using the Grantfinder database to identify sources of funding for internal/external partners and liaising with district councils,
• ensuring that inter/intranet websites are up to date
• establishing contacts with other research and information officers within county departments and external agencies such as health
• providing an analysis of economic and social variables as they effect public funding
• managing and administering the Corporate Partnership Fund, liaising with councillors, departments and members of the public
• establishing audit procedures and identifying and securing matching funding
• organising and running meetings and seminars about bidding procedures
• advising clients on the format and scope of bid procedures in relation to funds available
• helping partners to implement appropriate databases for tracking bids and the progress of projects
• representing the CBU and the county council on internal and external information networks
• developing protocol for sharing data and ensuring the unit’s activities meet the requirements of the Data Protection Act.

Skills & Interests

It is essential to have:

• the ability to work in a pressurised environment and meet targets and deadlines
• effective oral and written communication skills
• a positive nature and be a self starter
• confidence
• good IT literacy skills
• an ability to get on with people of different backgrounds
• the ability to use the VDU for 12 hours plus per week.

Entry Requirements

A degree or the equivalent is essential, preferably in Economics/Statistics

A minimum of 3 years’ experience working in a related research/data management environment is also required.

Estimated salary range

£15,741 - £19,014

Please note that salary information is a guide only and there may be local agreements in place. For further information about salaries for particular positions, please contact your local council directly.

Future prospects & opportunities

There are opportunities for advancement to funding development manager, project manager community area initiatives and external funding within the CBU. There is also the chance of grade promotion to management of information technology systems, database administration and in other data and financial management areas.