Data Matters 2027: explore the programme

Data experts and strategic leaders will gather at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester on 13 January 2027 to discuss exploiting data for insight and opportunity.

The conference will focus on turning data into decisive advantage with themes of shaping fundamental strategic decisions, navigating uncertainty with insight, and effective data use through culture, skills and trust.

Keynotes will include Aimee Smith, government chief data officer, examining why data is a national asset, and a panel on using data to shape student success, skills and economic growth.

Other presentations will cover learning analytics, in-year statutory data submission, managing data when universities merge, and the national pilot of pre-arrival questionnaires.

Our chief executive, Heidi Fraser-Krauss, will open the one-day event and said:

"The importance of data maturity becomes more obvious every day. Good data provides a tangible strategic advantage for education, research and public sector bodies. Well managed data provides the foundations and trust for decision-making in a changing and uncertain world. I invite leaders in the field to join us at the Royal Northern College of Music to exploit our sectors’ other strategic advantage – collaborating on our collective success. "

About the event

Data Matters 2027 takes place on Wednesday 13 January 2027 at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester.

• View the full Data Matters 2027 programme
• Book your ticket