National Data Manager at South African Medical Research Council

Job Description

• The National data manager (NDM) at the SAMRC manages the data strategy for the future vision of the organisation. This is achieved by the development a roadmap to enable data-oriented systems and policies for data vision in the organization. The NDM manages data management direct reports and research teams in performing data-related tasks on research projects. The NDM understands SAMRC’s strategy, goals, mission, and plans, and thus works to improve on existing goals and identification of new opportunities in data management support in research projects, and in conjunction with the heads of IT and Director of the Biostatistics Unit improve on technologies for SAMRC to get the best value for their data.
• Included in their activities is to work with staff within the data management division (data encoders, data managers, senior data managers) and study project team to ensure the data being collected is a representation of the objectives of the research study and is of a high standard. The NDM provides guidance to stakeholders as well as senior data managers on choosing the most efficient data management system considering the objectives of the study.
• They also develop and supervise data management staff in monitoring the data collection process to identify inconsistencies or errors. Quality control procedures are crucial in this role to ensure clean data is available for analysis, reports and publication. These outputs are tailored for various purpose target audiences. The NDM serves as a member of study committees, advising and steering all decisions related to data management. Effectively and collaboratively contributing to muti-dimensional teams is crucial to this role.
• As a national data manager, it is imperative that there is constant innovation with data management to allow efficiency during the research process. Innovation is only possible by keeping abreast of technology trends, online research, self-development, attending courses and conferences – the NDM is engaged in all these activities. The NDM leads all recruitment processes for the Data Management Division as well as performance management of senior data managers, data managers and data encoders in the division.

Job Requirements

• Four-year tertiary qualification in Data Science, Computer Science, or a related quantitative discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in data management in health research, clinical trials, or public health setting.
• Demonstrated experience in supervising teams of data officers/managers.
• Experience in capacity building and training in data management practices.
• Track record of contributing to large, multi-site or national-level projects.
• Strong proficiency in data management systems (e.g., REDCap, OpenClinica, DHIS2, ODK, or similar platforms).
• Familiarity with data integration, interoperability, and standard coding systems (e.g., ICD-10, HL7, CDISC).

Advantageous:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Data Science, Computer Science, or a related quantitative discipline
• At least 10 years’ experience in Data Management, including three years’ experience in a leadership role
• Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, Stata, SAS, or SPSS)