At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead data engineering teams and shape the enterprise data strategy.
- Company: Join a progressive organisation focused on innovation and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 30 days holiday, generous pension contributions, and lifestyle perks.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a dynamic data landscape with a modern tech stack.
- Qualifications: Proficiency in data engineering, cloud platforms, and leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 € per year.
Job Description
JOB TITLE:Head of Data Engineering
LOCATION(S):Manchester or Bristol
HOURS:Full-time
WORKING PATTERN:Hybrid – spend at least two days per week (or 40% of your time) at one of our locations.
About this opportunity:
We're seeking aHead of Data Engineering—a senior data expert and technical leader ready to help shape our enterprise data strategy. Join theEnterprise Data Provisioning Platformto drive innovation and create safe, scalable data capabilities across the organisation.
With rapid change in the data landscape and a powerful modern tech stack in place, this is a chance to make a significant impact on our future.
What you’ll be doing:
We're developing adata mesh architecture on Google Cloud Platform (GCP)that supports decentralised, self-serve data product development.
You’ll set the data engineering vision, define standards, and solve complex challenges. This role requires deep expertise, strategic thinking, and a passion for agile, innovative delivery.
You will:
- Shape strategic direction and mentor data engineering teams
- Provide technical leadership in data architecture and product delivery
- Ensure high-quality, secure, and scalable data product development
- Lead data engineering support for live environments
- Collaborate with architecture and platform teams to set engineering and data standards
- Advise on tools, practices, and future tech direction
- Align long-term data strategy with business goals
- Support recruitment, training, and development of junior engineers
What skills you’ll need:
- Data Engineering:Proficiency in modern data engineering practices and tooling
- Cloud Platforms:Familiarity with GCP, Azure, or AWS
- Data Migrations:Experience leading large-scale migrations to the cloud
- Data Literacy:Ability to drive decision-making through clear communication and collaboration
- Data Design:Skilled in modelling and designing efficient, interoperable data structures
- Leadership & Vision:Inspire inclusive culture, lead transformation, and build high-performing teams
- Values:Purpose-driven and customer-focused with a change-ready mindset
Desirable experience:
- Expertise in GCP services (BigQuery, Data Fusion, Cloud Composer, IAM)
- Defining success through objectives and measurable metrics
Why join us?
We’re investing in a bold data future—and people like you will help make it real. Be part of a progressive, ambitious organisation that values innovation, inclusion, and purpose-driven growth.
Inclusive working and benefits
We celebrate diversity and support inclusive working environments that help everyone feel they belong. We welcome applicants from underrepresented backgrounds and are committed to accessibility and workplace adjustments.
Our benefits include:
- Up to 15% employer pension contribution
- Annual performance-related bonus
- Share schemes including free shares
- Lifestyle benefits including discounts and wellbeing programs
- Up to 30 days holiday, plus bank holidays
- Comprehensive parental leave and support
Head of Data Engineering in Manchester employer: Gresham Hunt
Join a forward-thinking organisation in Manchester or Bristol as the Head of Data Engineering, where you will lead innovative data strategies and shape the future of enterprise data. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, we offer a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth through mentorship and collaboration. Enjoy competitive benefits including generous pension contributions, performance bonuses, and ample holiday leave, all while working in a hybrid environment that promotes work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data Engineering in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in data engineering, especially around data mesh architecture and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current professionals in the data engineering field, particularly those who have experience with GCP services like BigQuery and Data Fusion. Attend industry meetups or webinars to build connections and gain insights that could give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully mentored teams in the past. Highlight specific examples where you've inspired change or improved processes, as this role requires strong leadership and vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and culture to align your responses during interviews. Demonstrating that you share our purpose-driven and customer-focused mindset will show that you're a great fit for our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data Engineering in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in data engineering, particularly with cloud platforms like GCP, Azure, or AWS. Emphasise your leadership skills and any relevant projects that showcase your ability to drive innovation and manage teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for data engineering and how you align with the company's vision. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your strategic thinking and technical leadership in data architecture and product delivery.
Showcase Relevant Skills:Clearly outline your proficiency in modern data engineering practices, data migrations, and data design. Use examples to illustrate your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
Highlight Your Vision:Discuss your approach to shaping strategic direction and mentoring teams. Share your thoughts on building an inclusive culture and how you plan to inspire high-performing teams within the organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gresham Hunt
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Head of Data Engineering, you'll need to demonstrate your deep understanding of data engineering practices and cloud platforms like GCP. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully implemented data solutions and how you tackled challenges.
✨Align with Business Goals
Make sure to articulate how your vision for data engineering aligns with the company's long-term objectives. Highlight your experience in driving strategic direction and how it has positively impacted previous organisations.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Share examples of how you've mentored teams, inspired an inclusive culture, and led transformations in data engineering. Be ready to discuss your approach to building high-performing teams.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making process. Think about complex challenges you've faced in data architecture or product delivery and how you resolved them, as this will showcase your strategic thinking.
