Census Area Manager

ONS Census Test 2027 | Cardiff or Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Lead the team that helps shape the future of the UK's next Census.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is conducting an important large-scale Census Test in 2027. which will help shape the design and delivery of Census 2031.

AMS Skills Creation are working in partnership with ONS to hire an experienced manager who will lead the operation for this important project in [Location].

This is a senior operational leadership opportunity requiring experience of managing teams, using performance information and delivering at pace. Full role-specific training and equipment will be provided.

Purpose of the role

• Increase response to the census test.
• Build and protect the census reputation.
• Help deliver a high-quality test and capture operational learning to support Census 2031 planning.

Why Join Us?

What you'll do:

• Lead the Household (HH) and Communal Establishments (CE) operations, working with local stakeholders, university and halls of residence managers, and Census Engagement Managers.
• Support HH & CE Team Leaders and Officers to encourage student participation and maximise questionnaire completion.
• Oversee remote teams in the field and act as the main point of contact for Team Leaders throughout the operation.
• Build relationships with Census Engagement Managers and other stakeholders to understand local communities and support participation activity.
• Monitor and analyse operational and team performance, implementing interventions and improvements where required.
• Travel throughout the assigned area, including longer journeys in rural locations where applicable.
• Manage operational resources, budgets, time recording and expenses accurately and on time.
• Capture learning that will help shape Census 2031

This is a field-based leadership role.Travel within your assigned area will be required, with expenses reimbursed in line with ONS travel policies

We're looking for:

• Experience leading or coordinating teams in an operational delivery environment, including remote or dispersed teams.
• Strong ability to use data, evidence and management information to drive performance and improve outcomes.
• Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, meet deadlines and communicate clearly.
• Ability to work at pace in live, fast-moving and sometimes pressurised environments.
• Adaptability across different working environments and teams with different operational objectives.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, with confidence engaging a range of stakeholders.
• Welsh language skills are desirable in Wales.

Essential requirements

To be eligible, you'll need:

• To hold a full UK driving licence and have access to a vehicle with proof of (Business Class 1 use) insurance (evidence of both must be provided before employment begins). Mileage allowance and travel expenses will be paid in line with ONS expense policy.
• To meet the eligibility criteria for Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). BPSS includes identity, right to work, employment history; and criminal record (unspent convictions) checks.
• A reliable wireless broadband connection at your home address
• To be available to travel to ONS Headquarters in Titchfield for 4-5 days week beginning 14th December

What you need to know:

Field working hours are flexible between 9:00am and 8:00pm Monday to Saturday, and between 10:00am and 4:00pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

📍 Locations: Cardiff or Newcastle-upon-Tyne

📅 Contract assignment: 14th December 2026 to 31st May 2027.

🚗 Travel across your assigned area required

📈 Full training and equipment provided

Be Part of Something Bigger

The Census helps shape decisions about public services, housing, transport, healthcare and education. By joining the Census Test team, you'll play an important role in ensuring communities are accurately represented and that future census operations are as effective as possible.

Help deliver a successful Census Test and make a lasting impact on how the UK counts its population in the future. This is a unique opportunity to combine leadership, community engagement and public service in a role that delivers real impact