Head of Data Engineering / Hybrid Working Leeds

Our Client is entering an exciting phase of growth and succession, which has in turn led to an investment in the expansion of the Data Team. As Hands-On Head of Data Engineering, you will shape and develop the Data Engineering capability, building and overseeing the team, leading the design and management of enterprise grade data infrastructure, data architecture, robust data pipelines, and data solutions.

We are seeking a visionary and experienced Head of Data Engineering to join a growing team. This is a brand-new role designed for someone who is passionate about driving data strategy, building data infrastructure, and ensuring seamless integration of new data sets. You'll have the unique opportunity to take ownership of the Azure Synapse environment, which has already been deployed for the past couple of years, and work on scaling and optimizing it for the future.

This is a leadership role, where you will initially work independently, taking the reins as the Data Engineering Lead, with the intention to build and scale out a high-performing data engineering team over time.

• Shape and develop the data engineering capability, influencing the direction of the team, including ways of working, engineering principles, data governance and best practice.
• Be the SME on the design, development, and deployment of data ETL pipelines (using Azure Data Factory, Azure Synapse, Data Warehouse and other technologies) to access, combine and transform data from on-prem and cloud-based sources.
• Ensure that all data pipelines are developed to a high standard, where possible adopting best practice engineering principles such as domain driven design, test driven development and clear separation of concerns.
• Maintain an effective backlog to ensure that engineering services are iteratively and incrementally developing in line with business needs and priorities.
• Assist in shaping the overall strategic data and analytical capabilities, influencing the adoption of best practices and continuously improving data engineering standards across the team.
• Build and manage key internal and external relationships, including end users, IT, Risk & Compliance, and data services providers.

• Extensive experience in data engineering with a strong focus on Azure Synapse or similar cloud data platforms.
• Expertise in data architecture and understanding of complex data integration and ETL/ELT processes.
• Proven experience integrating new data sets into an established data platform and optimizing data storage and processing.
• In-depth knowledge of metadata management, self-serve data models, and data governance principles.
• Strong understanding of risk management frameworks, data controls, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
• Familiarity with Microsoft technologies (Azure, Power BI, SQL Server, etc.) and cloud data management practices.
• Previous experience leading data engineering projects or teams is highly desirable, with a strategic mindset for team growth and development.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively with both technical teams and non-technical stakeholders.

• Opportunity to shape and grow the data engineering function from the ground up.
• Work with cutting-edge technologies in a cloud-first environment (Azure Synapse).
• Lead the charge in building a self-service data culture that empowers the business to make data-driven decisions.
• Competitive salary and benefits package with flexible work arrangements.
• Be part of an exciting journey in transforming data strategy and architecture for the future.

If you are passionate about data engineering, Azure, and building scalable, cutting-edge data ecosystems, we would love to hear from you! Apply today or email.