At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of a robust data platform and ensure data quality across the organisation.
- Company: A scaling, data-driven organisation undergoing transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and a chance to shape data strategy.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for innovation and growth.
- Why this job: Play a pivotal role in transforming data capabilities and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in building data platforms and strong data engineering skills required.
We're partnering with a scaling, data-driven organisation as they invest heavily in their data capability during a period of transformation. The business is evolving from a primarily manual, compliance-led setup into a more product-oriented, technology-enabled operation. Data is a key enabler of that shift, and this contract role will play a central part in laying the foundations.
This is a hands-on Head of Data contract focused on building a joined-up, dependable data platform from a fragmented starting point. You'll take ownership of data architecture and delivery, working closely with engineering and product leaders to ensure data is reliable, well-modelled, and embedded into core applications. You'll be expected to operate at both strategic and delivery levels - shaping direction while staying close to the technical detail to ensure progress is made.
Key responsibilities:- Design and own end-to-end data architecture from ingestion through to consumption
- Build and improve pipelines across APIs, files, and third-party systems
- Establish robust data models to support analytics, workflows, and product features
- Introduce data quality, validation, and monitoring practices
- Ensure data is accessible and genuinely useful across the business
- Work closely with engineering teams to integrate data into applications
- Make pragmatic decisions around tooling, orchestration, and platform design
- Define standards for testing, deployment, and version control
- Collaborate with external partners while shaping longer-term internal capability
What we're looking for:
You'll be comfortable stepping into an environment that's still forming and bringing clarity and structure at pace. Ideal experience includes:
- Building and scaling data platforms in SaaS or data-centric organisations
- Strong background in data engineering, modelling, and cloud platforms
- Hands-on experience with tools such as Snowflake, dbt, Azure Data Factory (or equivalents)
- Advanced SQL skills and experience working with complex datasets
- Experience where data underpins customer-facing products
If this is a role that suits your skillset and you are interested in the role then please apply directly or email me your most recent and up to date CV.
Head of Data employer: Opus Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Join a dynamic and innovative organisation in Bristol as the Head of Data, where you'll play a pivotal role in transforming data capabilities within a supportive and collaborative work culture. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, this company offers competitive daily rates and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge data projects that directly impact customer-facing products. Embrace the chance to shape the future of data architecture in a hybrid working environment that values both strategic vision and hands-on execution.
Contact Detail:
Opus Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Data
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the data field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that Head of Data role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience with data architecture and engineering. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow relevant blogs, podcasts, and forums to keep your knowledge fresh. This will not only help you in interviews but also show potential employers that you're passionate about the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skillset. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Data
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Data role. Highlight your experience in building data platforms and working with tools like Snowflake and Azure Data Factory.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully built and scaled data platforms in previous positions.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t shy away from detailing your technical expertise, especially in SQL and data modelling. We want to see how you’ve tackled complex datasets and what tools you’ve used to ensure data quality.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of getting noticed, apply directly through our website. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role as soon as possible.
How to prepare for a job interview at Opus Recruitment Solutions Ltd
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in the data architecture and platforms relevant to the role. Brush up on your experience with tools like Snowflake and Azure Data Factory, and be ready to discuss how you've built and scaled data platforms in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This role requires a balance of strategic vision and technical detail. Prepare examples that demonstrate how you've shaped data strategies while staying hands-on with implementation. Think about times when you’ve made pragmatic decisions around tooling and platform design.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to dive deep into technical discussions during the interview. Be ready to explain your approach to data modelling, quality assurance, and integration with applications. Practise articulating complex concepts clearly, as this will show your ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Collaboration is key in this role, so prepare to discuss how you've worked with engineering teams and external partners. Highlight specific projects where you’ve successfully integrated data into applications or improved workflows, showcasing your ability to build relationships and drive results.
