Head of Data

Head of Data
Senior Leadership | Reporting to the CTO)

A leading technology business is looking for a Head of Data to own and deliver its data strategy, modernise its platform, and turn data into a core driver of growth. This is a senior leadership role with the chance to shape a cloud-native data environment and build a high-performing, multidisciplinary team.

The opportunity
You will lead the execution of the data strategy, transforming the current Azure and Databricks landscape into a scalable, governed platform that supports self-service MI, embedded analytics, and AI-ready foundations. The role focuses on improving decision-making, supporting product innovation, and ensuring data becomes a strategic asset across the organisation.

What you'll be doing

• Translate the data strategy into clear roadmaps, priorities and measurable outcomes.

• Own the reference architecture and standards across Azure, Databricks and Fabric.

• Lead the modernisation of the stack to cloud-native, modular, scalable principles.

• Embed self-service BI and analytics using tools such as Power BI, ThoughtSpot or Fabric.

• Drive governance, lineage, quality and compliance in a practical, business-friendly way.

• Build, mentor and scale a high-performing data team across engineering, BI, governance and analytics.

• Enable AI/ML initiatives through robust data foundations, MLOps pipelines and feature stores.

What you'll need

• Strong hands-on background with modern cloud data platforms (Azure, Databricks, ELT/ETL).

• Experience leading large-scale, distributed data platforms and engineering teams.

• Knowledge of Medallion Architecture or Lakehouse design patterns.

• Track record delivering BI/MI, self-service analytics and data products.

• Deep understanding of governance, quality, lineage, cataloguing and regulatory compliance.

• Experience supporting AI/ML initiatives in production environments.

• Collaborative, humble, customer-focused leadership style.