At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and build a high-performing AI engineering team for enterprise solutions.
- Company: Join an innovative tech business scaling cutting-edge AI platforms.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Unique chance to define engineering standards and influence architecture.
- Why this job: Shape the future of AI engineering while making a real impact in major organisations.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in leading AI or software engineering teams.
The predicted salary is between 180000 - 200000 £ per year.
Salary: £180K – £200K
Location: London (Hybrid)
Here at Data Idols, we’re working with an innovative technology business that is scaling a cutting-edge AI platform used by enterprise organisations around the world. As demand continues to grow, they are looking for a Director of Forward Deployed Engineering to build and lead a new engineering capability responsible for delivering complex AI solutions into enterprise environments. This is a rare opportunity to define how AI engineering is delivered across major organisations while building a high‑performing team from the ground up.
This role combines engineering leadership, technical strategy and client engagement. You’ll work with senior stakeholders to shape AI implementation programmes, establish engineering best practice and build repeatable delivery frameworks that can scale across multiple enterprise clients.
The Opportunity
This is a highly strategic leadership role where you’ll be responsible for building an engineering practice rather than simply managing projects. You’ll recruit and develop exceptional engineers, define engineering standards and delivery methodologies, and oversee the successful implementation of enterprise AI platforms across a portfolio of high‑profile clients. You’ll help shape technical strategy while remaining close enough to delivery to influence architecture, engineering quality and client outcomes.
Skills and Experience
- Extensive experience leading software engineering, AI engineering or enterprise architecture teams
- Proven track record of building and scaling high‑performing engineering organisations
- Strong knowledge of modern AI technologies, large language models and agentic AI
- Experience delivering enterprise‑scale cloud platforms and distributed systems
- Strong consulting and stakeholder management skills
- Commercial awareness with experience supporting business development and solution design
If you are looking for a unique opportunity to build and lead one of the UK’s most ambitious AI engineering teams, while working on some of the most complex AI programmes in the market, please submit your CV for initial screening and further details.
Director of Forward Deployed Engineering employer: Data Science Festival
At Data Idols, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our hybrid working model in London allows for flexibility while you contribute to a cutting-edge AI-powered platform, with ample opportunities for professional growth and influence over key architectural decisions. Join us to be part of a high-performing engineering team where your expertise will directly impact the future of technology in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Forward Deployed Engineering
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Data Science Festival, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Forward Deployed Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Data Science Festival specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Data Science Festival
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Data Science Festival, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Data Science Festival value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
