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- Tasks: Lead and innovate data engineering teams while designing enterprise-scale data platforms.
- Company: Established UK tech firm focused on data-driven decision-making.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, remote-first work, and quarterly team meet-ups.
- Why this job: Take ownership of impactful data projects and shape the future of data engineering.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in data engineering with strong technical skills in Azure, SQL, and Python.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 95000 - 130000 £ per year.
UK-based | Remote first (quarterly on-site in Reading)
£110,000 – £140,000 + benefits
We're working with a well-established UK technology business that sits at the intersection of data, property and decision-making. Data is core to how the organisation operates, and they're now looking for a Head of Data Engineering to take full ownership of their data platforms and engineering capability.
This role is about depth as much as leadership. You'll set the technical direction, stay close to the architecture, and build an environment where data engineers can do their best work, while ensuring platforms are reliable, scalable and commercially sound.
What you'll be responsible for:
- Owning the design and evolution of enterprise-scale data platforms and pipelines
- Setting engineering standards and acting as the senior technical authority for data engineering
- Leading and developing a team of experienced data engineers
- Ensuring operational excellence: availability, performance, cost control and incident management
- Partnering closely with product, software engineering, architecture, data science and security teams
- Making pragmatic architectural decisions that balance modern engineering practices with resilience and governance
What we're looking for:
- Proven experience leading data engineering teams while remaining technically hands-on
- Strong background designing and operating large-scale data platforms
- Deep experience within the Azure data ecosystem
- Excellent SQL and Python skills in production environments
- Experience with modern ETL/ELT patterns, CI/CD and infrastructure as code
- A pragmatic, commercially aware mindset. You understand why the platform exists, not just how
Working model:
This is a remote-first role within the UK, with an expectation to be on-site once per quarter for planning and collaboration.
Eligibility:
Applicants must already have the right to work in the UK, as sponsorship is not available for this position.
If you're a senior data engineering leader who still enjoys being close to the technology and wants real ownership rather than oversight, this is a role worth exploring.
Head of Data Engineering in Oxford employer: Develop
Contact Detail:
Develop Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data Engineering in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the data engineering field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your past projects, especially those involving large-scale data platforms. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with Azure, SQL, and Python, as well as your approach to leading teams and ensuring operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data Engineering in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in leading data engineering teams and your technical skills in SQL and Python. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; show us what you’ve achieved! Use metrics and examples to demonstrate how you've improved data platforms or led successful projects. This helps us understand the impact you've made in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you're passionate about this role and how your experience makes you the perfect fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm and a clear understanding of our needs.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Develop
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of data platforms and engineering practices. Brush up on your experience with Azure, SQL, and Python, as these will likely come up in conversation. Be ready to discuss how you've designed and operated large-scale data systems.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Data Engineering, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and develop a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your approach to mentoring and fostering a collaborative environment.
✨Be Pragmatic About Architecture
Expect questions about architectural decisions you've made in previous roles. Be prepared to explain how you balance modern engineering practices with resilience and governance. Use specific examples to illustrate your thought process and decision-making.
✨Understand the Business Impact
This role requires a commercially aware mindset. Be ready to discuss why data platforms are crucial for business success, not just how they function. Think about how your work has contributed to operational excellence and cost control in your previous positions.
