Data Analyst/Performance Manager

Our SEND Provision strategy requires an experienced senior data lead, specialising in SEND demand and forecasting, who can take forward key priority areas of analysis ahead of cabinet panel proposals in November 2025 and outcomes of proposals in April 2026. Between cabinet panels there will be formal consultation with schools across Hertfordshire using outcomes informed by the analysis this post holder will be delivering.

The postholder will be the strategic lead and accountable for personally delivering the following areas of analysis:

Modelling Placement Demand and Growth: lead on forecasting future demand for SEND placements, including specialist and mainstream settings, using demographic and trend data.

Impact Tracking of Initiatives: develop systems to monitor the effectiveness of outreach services, inclusion initiatives, and other interventions.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: provide the project team with analysis to support the evaluation of financial and social impacts of different provision models to inform strategic investment.

Gap Analysis: identify current and future gaps in provision, both geographically and by type of need.

Person Specification:

• Experience of working in a local authority SEND service within Children's Services
• Highly skilled data analyst with experience of forecasting demand and growth across statutory EHCPs and resulting provision and placement requirements for children who require specialist provision (special schools, resource provisions, units, independent placements)
• Experience of analysis that directly supports high profile strategic developments and/or business cases
• Ability to form quick and trusting relationships with senior stakeholders working in an embedded role within the multi disciplinary project team
• Skilled at interpreting requirements and using knowledge and experience to refine, challenge and transform outputs
• Skilled and experienced in briefing senior stakeholders - including preparation of analysis and commentary to support political briefings and cabinet panel papers