Global Data Architect – Support Office (Ashford/ Cairins)

Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) is a dynamic Christian aviation organization, utilizing light aircraft to deliver help and hope in Jesus’ name across over 30 developing countries. For more than 75 years, MAF has been transporting patients, relief workers, produce, and medical supplies to some of the world’s most remote regions—places of deepest human need—where flying is not a luxury but a lifeline.

Do you believe in the power of technology to create meaningful, positive change? At MAF International, we are embarking on an ambitious digital operations transformation, representing a fundamental shift in how we utilize digital technology. To shape this vision, we are seeking a Global Data Architect (GDA) to join our team and lead our company-wide data warehousing initiative.

This pivotal role involves integrating diverse data sources across the organization to enable data-driven decision-making, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen MAF’s mission of serving isolated communities.

Responsibilities

The GDA will develop a global data and visualisation strategy / road-map through analysis, research and design which will include the following:

The GDA will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing our cutting-edge data warehouse using Microsoft Fabric and Power BI.
Architecting a scalable, efficient, and secure data warehouse that integrates critical data from various sources, including flight operations, parts inventory, financial systems, HR, training, and other essential organizational data.
Lead communication of “what’s possible” while being a catalyst for MAFI maturation / adoption and is bridge in-between business requirements and IT solutions for data.
Developing and maintaining advanced reporting and data visualization solutions using Power BI, leveraging the data warehouse to provide actionable insights to stakeholders at all levels.
Builds a Data Architecting/Scientist capability and line manages more junior members if required.

To support on matters related to digital solutions and Operations:

Pro-actively employing an agile approach to identify and analyse business application requests, fostering swift and effective responses needs and challenges.
Continuously enhance solutions and services by leveraging operational reporting requirements and pertinent information, driving iterative improvements aligned with organizational objectives.
Regularly track and communicate findings to stakeholders, identifying opportunities for digital transformation and pro-actively addressing issues or escalating them as appropriate.

The role will report to the Applications Development Manager.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience
Essential

Advanced degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
Excellent written and spoken English.
Extensive experience in data architecture, data warehousing, cloud technologies, data visualization, and strategy.
Deep expertise in Microsoft Fabric and Power BI, with a proven track record of designing and implementing complex data warehousing solutions.
Exceptional project management skills, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive successful outcomes in a fast-paced environment.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with and influence senior leaders.
Passionate about driving digital transformation and fostering a data-driven culture.
Have a positive, ‘can-do’ attitude, be flexible, efficient and an excellent multi-tasker.
Be personable, helpful and approachable.
Tenacious, strong self-belief, drive, enthusiasm, and stamina that allows you to achieve goals and see things through.
Sound sense of judgement and balance in complex and changing environments.
Exceptional stakeholder and relationship management skills, with experience consulting and influencing.
Aptitude in verbal and abstract reasoning, ability to solve complex problems based on available information.

Desirable

Experience in SQL, ETL/SSIS database management and report generation / support.
Experience working in a regulated environment.
Experience working in mission and / or multi-cultural contexts.
Experience in leading and managing Cultural Change initiatives.
Familiarity with agile methodologies and risk management in IT projects.
Proven ability to articulate a compelling vision and utilize persuasion techniques to navigate challenging and contentious matters.