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- Tasks: Lead the design and maintenance of our Snowflake and Azure data platform.
- Company: Hastings Direct is a forward-thinking company focused on data-driven solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, private medical insurance, and a generous bonus scheme.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team where your strategic influence can drive real change and growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in data engineering, cloud platforms, and excellent communication skills are essential.
- Other info: We promote diversity and offer extensive wellbeing support for all employees.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
Head of Data Platform Engineering
Join to apply for the Head of Data Platform Engineering role at Hastings Direct.
Overview
This is an exciting opportunity for overall responsibility for the design, build, and maintenance of the Snowflake & Azure enterprise data platform. You will manage platform engineering, quality and governance delivery teams, delivering both projects and BAU activities, aligning to CIO ways of working and co‑ordinating delivery plans with end‑to‑end outcomes across CIO. Next to delivery you will need to focus on a clear understanding of the Hastings strategy and an ability to interpret that into the daily work to push our achievements and support the continued growth of the company. As a strategic leader the role holder will be expected to work beyond technology to influence decisions and outcomes for the greater good.
Job Details
- Data Platform Operations : Managing production ETL/ELT pipelines and data orchestration frameworks. Ensuring data platform security, compliance, and access controls. Implementing and governing data quality, lineage, observability, and metadata management. Ensuring the sustainability and scalability of our data infrastructure and that it enables the company to achieve its business objectives.
- Data Platform Optimization : Ensuring that the team is working efficiently and effectively, bringing an agile mindset to adapting to changing circumstances while working within the organisational constraints of budget, resource and quality. Work closely with CIO FinOps and all data teams across company to ensure our data platform run cost stays within the agreed budget.
- Centre of Excellence : Implement a data platform engineering CoE within the PDA community to support all data teams at Hastings to use Snowflake platform efficiently and effectively.
- Coding Standards : Create, implement, maintain and control adherence to appropriate coding standards in line with industry best practices to meet quality measures and guarantee the achievement of high‑quality outcomes.
Skills we would love you to have
- Proficiency with traditional database and cloud data platform ETL technologies.
- Proficiency with Big Data integration technologies.
- Significant experience of CI/CD, data platform engineering, testing and release principle/best practice.
- Significant experience in a business within a fast‑paced and constantly evolving market. Must have previous experience leading and maintaining a high standard in a business\’s data engineering department.
- Knowledge/experience working with numerous methodologies and tools.
- An excellent communicator, both in written and oral form and an equally proficient listener with all audiences and stakeholders.
- Deep passion for research and analysis, outstanding troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills, and the ability to manipulate, interpret, and understand large amounts of data.
Regrettably we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and £6k car allowance.
- Flexible working – we champion a flexible hybrid working approach – please speak to your recruiter to discuss in more detail.
- Competitive bonus scheme – all colleagues are eligible for our annual 4Cs performance bonus.
- Physical wellbeing – as a Band 5 colleague, Hastings pays you to receive private medical insurance (PMI). This gives you flexibility and convenience to see a specialist or consultant and allows you to decide when and where you will be seen.
- Financial wellbeing – as well as providing you with 4x your salary with our life assurance cover, income protection at no extra cost, and matched pension contributions up to 10%, we are proud to provide you with an award‑winning package which includes discounts, cashback, free independent mortgage advice and free access to financial wellbeing support.
- Mental wellbeing programme – we have the thrive mental health app, our colleague assistance programme available 24/7, our own in‑house mental health first aiders, support groups and a dedicated team to make sure we are covering your needs.
- There’s more! 27 days annual leave + bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell one of your weeks, access to our health care cash back plans, dental plans, discounted health assessments, Cycle to work and tech schemes, discounted and free onsite facilities, social events throughout the year and much more.
Equal Opportunities
Hastings Group is an equal opportunities employer which means we treat people fairly. We welcome applications from all suitably skilled persons regardless of their gender, age, race, disability, ethnic background, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or marital/family status. Please also note that we have a thorough referencing process, which includes credit and criminal record checks.
Seniority level
Executive.
Employment type
Full‑time.
Job function
Information Technology.
Industries
Data Infrastructure and Analytics.
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Head of Data Platform Engineering employer: Hastings Direct
Contact Detail:
Hastings Direct Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data Platform Engineering
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Snowflake and Azure platforms, as these are crucial for the role. Consider taking online courses or certifications to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to mastering these technologies.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the data engineering field, especially those who have experience with CI/CD and data platform optimisation. Attend industry events or join relevant online communities to make connections that could lead to valuable insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing past experiences where you successfully managed teams or projects. Prepare specific examples that highlight your ability to influence decisions and drive outcomes in a fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Hastings Direct's company culture and values. Tailor your conversations during interviews to reflect how your personal values align with theirs, demonstrating that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data Platform Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Data Platform Engineering role at Hastings Direct. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your relevant experience in data platform engineering, management of ETL/ELT pipelines, and any leadership roles you've held. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements and impact in previous positions.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Highlight your strategic leadership abilities and how you can contribute to Hastings Direct's goals. Be sure to mention your proficiency with Snowflake and Azure, as well as your experience in managing teams.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a senior role like this.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hastings Direct
✨Understand the Company Strategy
Before your interview, make sure you have a solid grasp of Hastings Direct's overall strategy. Be prepared to discuss how your experience and vision for the data platform can align with their goals and contribute to the company's growth.
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Head of Data Platform Engineering, you'll need to demonstrate your proficiency in ETL technologies and cloud platforms like Snowflake and Azure. Be ready to share specific examples of past projects where you've successfully implemented these technologies.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership capabilities. Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams, fostering collaboration, and driving performance. Highlight any initiatives you've led that improved team efficiency or project outcomes.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Think of examples from your past where you've navigated challenges in data engineering or platform management, and be ready to explain your thought process.
