Here’s what you need to know about a role as a data analyst

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A data analyst spends their time inspecting, cleansing, transforming, and modelling data in order to discover useful information, inform conclusions, and support decision-making within a business. 

“This is a fairly new role within finance, which combines data and process analysis,” says Alex Rowland, consultant at Sellick Partnership. “A data analyst will use multiple tools to scrutinise data to help businesses make important decisions in relation to strategy and growth.” 

Generally working alongside the senior management team, data analysts are highly sought after and can be a huge commodity for any growing business, Alex observes. 

Typical responsibilities of a data analyst 

  • Using advanced techniques to extract and simplify complicated data. 
  • Removing any corrupted data. 
  • Assessing the quality of data. 
  • Preparing in-depth reports based on the data, and making suggestions as to what the next steps for the business may be. 

Earning potential 

“The average salary of a skilled data analyst in the UK is in the region of £30,000 to £50,000, depending on experience,” says Alex. 

Skills required for the role 

It goes without saying that a career as a data analyst would suit someone with a penchant for numbers – if you have strong mathematical skills, are highly analytical, curious and inquisitive, it could be a great role for you. 

“Excellent numerical skills are a must,” says Alex. “Our clients are also looking for data analysts that have excellent communication skills, are extremely process driven and have the ability to produce clear graphical representations  and data visualisations.” 

Where you can find a data analyst role 

Alex says that data analysts are increasingly in demand for housing associations, banks, telecommunications companies, public sector organisations, the education sector (colleges and universities), pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers. 

Is this role the right fit for you? 

  • Salary range of £30,000 to £50,000 
  • Scrutinise data to help businesses make important decisions in relation to strategy and growth 
  • Work alongside the senior management team 
  • Excellent numerical and communication skills required 

Further reading:

Hannah Dolan is AAT Comment’s Content Editor.

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