Head of Data Engineering

We’re not just talking about making a difference, we’re making it happen. We generate dispatchable, renewable power and create stable energy in an uncertain world. Building on our proud heritage, we have ambition to become the global leader in sustainable biomass and carbon removals. You’ll be joining our teams of practical doers, future thinkers and business champions. We’re enabling a zero carbon, lower cost energy future for all, and working hard to decarbonise the planet for generations to come.

As Head of Data Engineering, you will support Drax’s strategic objectives by developing a high-performing team to deliver cutting-edge data engineering solutions, with the capability to leverage data inside and outside of Drax to drive business growth, lower costs and reduce risk. You will work closely with members of the Executive Committee (ExCom), Drax Leadership Team (DLT) and departmental heads to discover and prioritise data needs against the Group’s strategic priorities.

In this role, you will:

• Provide a secure, reliable platform for hosting and delivering Data Science, Automation, and Analytic products to stakeholders.
• Build a diverse and inclusive team of employees and contractors, scaling according to demand to deliver strategic data priorities across the Group.
• Build trusted relationships with stakeholders.
• Communicate complex subjects in a clear and intelligible manner to non-experts, up to and including ExCom, Government and client C-suite.
• Remain up to date with emerging technologies and implement costed, risk-assessed recommendations.
• Manage a team of ~20, rising to ~40 individuals, with a mixture of permanent staff, contractors and nearshore partners.

To be successful in this role you’ll ideally have substantial experience of being in a role responsible for and directing a delivery portfolio and the ability to demonstrate success in this leadership role in a FTSE 250 size organisation. To be successful in this role you’ll ideally have:

• Proven leadership experience in building and developing high-performing teams in a dynamic environment with experience coaching and developing individuals.
• A strong technical background in data engineering, with knowledge of data science and data visualisation techniques.
• Experience delivering data products into a business from concept, funding, through to successful production operation.
• Strong knowledge of the energy industry (e.g. trading, utilities, power systems etc.); renewable technologies; national and international policy to achieve net-zero.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to analyse cost/benefit opportunities.
• In-depth subject matter expert on project management responsibility and ownership, specifically planning & controls.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to engage with stakeholders, including ExCom / C-level executives.

As you help us to shape the future, we’ve shaped our rewards and benefits to help you thrive and support your lifestyle. If successful in this role you’ll get:

• A discretionary bonus depending on company performance.
• Private Healthcare with Vitality.
• SAYE (Sharesave): discretionary scheme (Currently available yearly).
• Personal accident cover.
• Group personal pension plan where we’ll pay up to 10%.
• Holiday 25 days plus bank holidays.
• Reimbursement of the cost of your annual membership of one relevant and appropriate professional body.

We’re committed to making a tangible impact on the climate challenge we all face. Drax is where your individual purpose can work alongside your career drive. We work as part of a team that shares a passion for doing what’s right for the future. With Drax you can shape your career and a future for generations to come. Together, we make it happen. At Drax, we’re committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of their role. To make this a reality, we actively work to better represent the communities we operate in, foster inclusion, and establish fair processes. Through these actions, we build the trust needed for all colleagues at Drax to contribute their perspectives and talents, no matter their background.

Talk to us about flexible working!

If you want to find out more about Drax, check out our LinkedIn page to see our latest news. We understand that you may have some additional questions about the role. If you’d like to have a confidential chat to discuss the role in more detail, please email.