Head of Data Engineering

Harnham; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A financial services group in Birmingham is seeking a Head of Data Engineering to lead their data platform transformation, migrating from legacy systems to Azure cloud technologies. This role involves overseeing a large team of data engineers and ensuring critical project delivery. The ideal candidate will have experience in leadership, SQL Server, and the financial sector. A hands-on approach to mentoring technical delivery is essential for success.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership of large data engineering teams (UK and offshore).
• Deep expertise in SQL Server, and experience migrating to Azure cloud.
• Experience managing third-party partners/vendors.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a 40-person team of engineers across the UK and offshore.
• Guide delivery of critical regulatory and treasury projects.
• Work closely with senior leaders for delivery and modernization.

Skills

Leadership of large data engineering teams

Deep expertise in SQL Server

Experience in Azure cloud migration

Managing third-party partners/vendors

Hands-on mentoring

Banking / financial services background

Strategic mindset

Tools

SQL

Python

Job description

Head of Data Engineering

Harnham, Birmingham, England, United Kingdom

West Midlands | Hybrid: 3 days per week in the office (flexible on which days)

An established, financial services group is on the lookout for a Head of Data Engineering to lead their data platform transformation – a critical migration from legacy systems (SQL Server) to modern Azure cloud technologies.

You’ll oversee a 40‑person team of engineers (across the UK and offshore), guide delivery of critical regulatory and treasury projects, and work closely with senior leaders to ensure smooth delivery and long‑term modernization. This is a hands‑on leadership role — ideal for someone who thrives in both strategy and delivery.

Ideal Candidate

• Proven leadership of large data engineering teams (UK and offshore)
• Deep expertise in SQL Server, and experience migrating to Azure cloud
• Experience managing third‑party partners/vendors
• Ability to stay hands‑on to mentor teams on technical delivery
• Background in the banking / financial services sector
• Strategic mindset with a delivery‑focused leadership style

Tech Environment

• SQL, Python
• Legacy systems primarily in SQL Server

Interview Process

• Initial 30‑minute informal conversation
• 60‑minute technical/competency interview with Engineering Managers
• Final 90‑minute session with senior leadership (CDO, CTO, CIO)

All applicants will undergo standard pre‑employment checks (financial, DBS, references).