Technical Business Analyst

The Student Record System Programme is replacing Cardiff Metropolitan University's current system with a modern, cloud-based platform that will transform how we manage the full student lifecycle. Making that platform work across the University depends on understanding how systems, data and processes connect, and that is precisely what this role is about.

As SRS Technical Business Analyst, you will investigate technical processes, systems and data flows, analyse system and integration requirements, and evaluate technical options, working within the SRS Programme team to recommend solutions that meet the University's needs. The Programme is taking an out of the box approach to implementation, so building deep knowledge of the new system and leading gap analysis will be central to your work. Your recommendations will help inform decisions with significant, long-term impact across the University.

You will work closely with Integration Developers, solution architects, the supplier and stakeholders at all levels, making sure requirements are technically sound, testable and signed off through design, build and UAT.

Key responsibilities:

- Investigating, gathering and documenting technical requirements using business analysis techniques, considering impacts and risks, and recommending feasible options and actions.
- Capturing 'as is' technical processes, data flows and system configurations, then working with stakeholders and technical teams to define 'to be' processes and highlight the wider system impact of proposed changes.
- Defining and documenting functional and non-functional requirements to a standard suitable for solution design and configuration, and securing stakeholder sign-off.
- Collaborating with Integration Developers and solution architects to ensure requirements are technically sound and testable through design, build and UAT.
- Supporting business case development and benefits realisation, facilitating workshops and managing engagement between end users, IT, project managers and suppliers.

Person specification:

You will be an experienced business analyst with a well developed technical grounding, equally comfortable working with systems, data and integrations as with business processes. You will be able to model complex 'as is' and 'to be' landscapes, appraise technical options objectively, and present your findings clearly to audiences ranging from technical delivery teams to senior stakeholders.

You will bring the ability to plan and prioritise your own work and that of others, the communication skills to facilitate collaborative workshops and manage expectations, and the relationship building skills needed to work effectively with colleagues, suppliers and consultants through a complex, cross-organisational change programme.

A degree-level qualification, ideally in computing, information systems or a related technical discipline (or equivalent experience), together with completed formal training in business analysis (e.g. BCS, ISEB, Lean), is essential.

Knowledge of UK higher education business processes, familiarity with cloud-based SaaS platforms, APIs and integration patterns, and a project management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2, Agile) would be an advantage.

You will also have:

- Excellent knowledge of business analysis theory and practice, including technical requirements definition, data and process modelling, and benefits identification.
- Practical experience of technical requirements gathering, business process analysis and modelling, and options appraisal techniques.
- Experience of delivering multiple, complex, cross-organisational technical change projects, including business case development and benefits realisation.
- Highly developed communication skills, with the ability to write reports and present complex information clearly and concisely in a manner appropriate to the audience.
- Demonstrable ability to support, develop and motivate others, and to organise a busy workload to meet deadlines without compromising on quality.
- Experience of building positive, collaborative relationships and networks, including with technical delivery teams.

Benefits:

- Annual leave of 35 days, plus 12 bank holiday / concessionary days.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme with generous contributions.
- Excellent family friendly policies.
- Opportunities to learn and develop your skills with access to library and digital services facilities.
- Excellent sports and fitness facilities with subsidised membership.
- Free family access to independent specialist wellbeing support provider, Health Assured.