Details.
A data analyst gathers and cleans data, analyses it for patterns, and presents clear findings through reports and dashboards. Day-to-day work involves querying databases, often with SQL, building dashboards in tools such as Power BI, analysing trends, and explaining findings to non-technical colleagues. The role requires recognised certifications, practical tool skills, and a logical, curious approach to data. Key skills include SQL, data preparation, understanding data structures, working with large datasets, Power BI, visualisation, basic statistics, and clear communication. Data analysts work across every sector and can progress to senior data analyst, analytics lead, business intelligence, or data science roles.