About the organisation:

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Ellwood Atfield is thrilled to partner with the National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB) who serve as the collective voice of its members, comprising the UK’s universities and leading businesses.

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NCUB is committed to bringing organisations together to leverage the skills and talent fostered by UK universities and to further strengthen the nation’s world-class research and development. Its strategic, cross-sector network links universities, businesses, and governments together to provide a platform for members to engage on areas of shared opportunity. NCUB is a trusted expert, driven by data.  

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Through strong relationships with UKRI and government, NCUB acts as a voice of influence, ensuring its members’ views are heard. Now, more than ever, the UK needs the shared learning and skills that arise from collaboration. This approach will help build a stronger nation, with a flourishing economy, a united society, and lasting positive impact.

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The opportunity:

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NCUB are seeking an experienced and articulate policy and data analyst to lead their data-driven policy initiatives. The successful applicant will play a key role in shaping NCUB’s thought leadership by delivering high-quality reports, briefings, and dashboards, and by engaging stakeholders to ensure that robust evidence is at the heart of policy decisions.  This role is central to NCUB’s analytical capability and offers the chance to influence policy across research, innovation, skills and university-business collaboration.

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This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership over major analytical projects, from scoping and design through to delivery and quality assurance. Working closely with the Principal Economist and wider team, you will apply rigorous research methods and translate technical findings into clear, actionable insights for decision-makers.

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Main responsibilities:

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• Analyse and interpret data on innovation, skills, productivity, and economic performance using advanced statistical and data science techniques
• Deliver clear insights through reports, dashboards, and presentations that inform policy and decision-making
• Collaborate with stakeholders including universities, businesses, and government to scope and manage research projects
• Drive innovation in methods by staying current with data science trends and championing best practices

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Key skills and experience required:

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• Extensive experience in policy or data analysis in a public, private, or third sector environment
• Understanding of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies
• Experience using some of the following: R, Python, Stata, ArcGIS, GIS
• Ability to collect, interpret and model complex data and present findings clearly and concisely to technical and non-technical audiences
• All candidates must have the right to work in the UK, as NCUB does not sponsor visas.

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Benefits:

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• Salary banding: £45,000 - £50,000, dependent on experience
• Hybrid working (2 days per week in the office)
• Office based in London (SE1 6FE)
• 30 days including 3-day Christmas closedown plus Bank Holidays
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay
• Employer pension contribution of 5% (on top of the 5% employee contribution)
• Rolling annual training and development plan
• Benenden Healthcare scheme.

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How to apply:

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To apply, please submit the form below and include a copy of your CV. 

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The deadline for applications is Friday 16 January 2026, however we may close the advert earlier if we receive sufficient applications, so we would encourage you to apply sooner rather than later.

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 Ellwood Atfield are the leading headhunters for corporate affairs, communications, policy, and advocacy. An employee-owned boutique search firm, we help you hire the most senior leaders and everyone who reports to them. We promise to connect talented people, smoothly and efficiently.

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Our purpose is to create important and enduring relationships. We are an equal opportunities employer and promote diversity across our profession to ensure every individual has the opportunity to perform at their best. If you have not done so already, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.