People Data Operations Analyst

Why we're hiring:

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Data Operations Analyst for the People Data & Insights team to play a foundational role in the success of WPP's global people data product. This position is vital for ensuring the continuous accuracy, integrity, and operational flow of the people data that underpins all of WPP's strategic initiatives. You will contribute to both the operational excellence of our people data ecosystem and provide crucial support that enables our senior team members to focus on strategic development and delivery orchestration.

What you'll be doing:

• Serve as the first point of contact for GPDS data-related queries, efficiently managing and processing access requests, and issue resolution from global stakeholders, ensuring timely and effective support.
• Support the implementation of developments and optimizations, adhering to established engineering standards of WPP's global people data product in data ingestion pipelines, supporting the seamless flow of core and lifecycle people data into our Databricks environment. 
• Ensure robust documentation of WPP's global people data product's data processes, workflows, and FAQs, maintaining knowledge management for its foundational components.
• Support the configuration and maintenance of Power Platform (e.g., Power Automate, Power Apps) solutions that streamline data operations and support the product’s evolving needs. Data Quality, Governance & Compliance Support:
• Play a key role in the data correction, validation, and reconciliation processes for critical initiatives like EU Pay Transparency (EUPT), ensuring the accuracy and completeness of submitted data.
• Conduct rigorous data quality checks and validation against established standards for GPDS/global people data, proactively identifying discrepancies and supporting remediation efforts to maintain data integrity. 
• Assist in creating audit trails and documentation for sensitive data processes, supporting compliance requirements and data governance principles. Business Analysis & Enhancement Support:
• Contribute to gathering and documenting foundational data requirements for new product features, data integrations, and platform enhancements.
• Assist in translating business needs into technical specifications, collaborating with technical and business stakeholders to drive continuous improvement for our product’s offerings. 
• Support user acceptance testing (UAT) for new data products and platform functionalities, ensuring they meet business expectations. Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Collaborate effectively with the wider People Data & Insights team, Enterprise Technology, and global People/HR teams to ensure data alignment and support our product's strategic roadmap. 

What you'll need:

• 1-3 years of experience in a data operations, data support, or junior business analysis role, preferably within an HR or People function.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Power Platform (Power Automate, Power Apps) and SharePoint for data collection and process automation.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot data issues, conduct root cause analysis, and contribute to effective solutions.
• Strong attention to detail and a firm commitment to data accuracy, quality, and governance.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate data-related issues and requirements to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• A proactive and curious attitude, with a willingness to rapidly learn new tools and systems (e.g., Databricks, Workday).
• Experience in stakeholder management, particularly in assisting with issue ticketing and query resolution.

• Basic understanding of SQL for data querying and analysis.
• Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., PowerBI) to support dashboard development.
• Exposure to Workday HCM data structures and reporting.
• Knowledge of data governance principles and best practices, especially for sensitive data.
• Experience supporting compliance-driven data projects (e.g., EU Pay Transparency, GDPR, pay equity).
• Prior experience working in a global, matrixed organization.

Who you are: