Data Platform Architect

Aztec; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job description

Report to Associate Director / Director of Data

The Aztec Group is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Data Platform Architect to join our team. This role is pivotal in designing and evolving our data platform to ensure it meets the strategic needs of our business and clients. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience with Azure Data Platform technologies and a solid understanding of our industry.

As a Data Platform Architect at Aztec Group, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our data infrastructure. Your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of tasks, from strategic planning and architecture design to hands-on implementation and optimisation. You will collaborate closely with the Director of Data to align our data platform initiatives with the overall business strategy, ensuring that our data solutions are robust, scalable, and capable of meeting the evolving needs of the organisation.

In addition to technical expertise, this role requires strong leadership skills. You will provide guidance and mentorship to the data engineering team, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Your ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders will be essential in driving successful data integration projects and ensuring seamless collaboration with our clients.

You will act as a trusted advisor to the Director of Data, offering insights on emerging technologies and industry trends. Your strategic recommendations will help shape the future direction of our data capabilities, positioning Aztec Group as a leading data-driven fund administrator.

Key responsibilities:

• Design and Implement Data Architecture: Develop scalable data architecture solutions that leverage the full suite and capabilities of Azure Data Platform technologies, particularly Azure Databricks.
• Strategic Alignment: Collaborate with the Director of Data to ensure that the data platform strategy supports and enhances the overall business objectives. This includes evaluating emerging technologies and trends to keep the platform at the forefront of innovation.
• Data Models and Integration Solutions: Lead the development and maintenance of robust data models, data storage solutions, and data integration processes. Ensure that these elements work seamlessly together to support business analytics and reporting needs.
• Architectural Patterns and Best Practices: Define and implement architectural patterns and best practices to enhance the efficiency, scalability, and reliability of the data platform.
• Master Data Management and Data Governance: Oversee the master data management initiatives to ensure data quality and consistency across the organisation. Collaborate with the Data Governance team to implement data governance frameworks to maintain high standards of data integrity, compliance, and security.
• Client Collaboration: Work closely with clients on integration projects, providing expert guidance and ensuring that data integration meets their specific requirements. This involves occasional travel to client sites for in-person collaboration.
• Data Security and Compliance: Implement and manage data security measures to protect sensitive information. Ensure that the data platform adheres to compliance standards and data governance frameworks.
• Performance Assessments: Conduct regular assessments of the data platform's performance, identifying areas for optimisation and improvement. Implement changes to enhance efficiency, reliability, and scalability.
• Technical Leadership and Mentorship: Provide mentorship and leadership to the data engineering team, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and innovation. Guide and support data engineers in their professional development and ensure adherence to best practices.
• Advisor Role: Serve as a trusted advisor to the Director of Data, offering insights and recommendations on the future direction of the data platform and its capabilities. This includes anticipating industry trends and suggesting strategic enhancements.
• Collaboration with Third Party Consultancies: Experience in collaborating with third-party consultancies to leverage external expertise and resources.
• Business Partnership: Partner with business stakeholders to identify opportunities for leveraging data capabilities to drive business growth and innovation. Explore the art of the possible to develop solutions that meet business needs.

Skills, knowledge, expertise:

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Advanced degrees or relevant certifications are a plus.
• Technical Expertise: Proven experience with Azure Data Platform technologies, particularly Azure Databricks. Familiarity with other cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud) is advantageous.
• Industry Experience: Previous experience in the Alternative Investment Fund industry is a plus but non-essential.
• Data Architecture and Modelling: Strong knowledge of data architecture principles, data modelling techniques, and best practices for data integration. Experience with data governance frameworks and compliance standards.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve complex data issues.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders and collaborate effectively with diverse teams and clients.
• Preferred Skills: Knowledge of machine learning and AI technologies. Experience with big data tools and techniques. Familiarity with data visualization tools and reporting software.
• Builds open and trusting relationships
• Acts in the organisation’s best interests
• A focus on detail while being able to look at the big picture
• Organised and disciplined but able to cope with ambiguity
• Tendency to approach problems in a positive and constructive manner
• Works effectively using mutual influence across functions
• Capacity to spot issues and distil the important from the unimportant
• Highly pragmatic and action orientated
• Excellent ability to inspire and influencing others
• Clear and grounded set of values that align to the Aztec’s Values
• Values the flexible and work life balance agenda

You will need to be quick to learn new systems and be great with people, as close working relationships between our colleagues and clients is at the heart of what we do. Beyond that, we will be with you every step of the way, enabling you to get the most out of your role, grow your skills your way, and see your career develop in the way you want. Be part of our talented Technology team and unbox your passion at a multi-award-winning leader in the alternative fund management industry.