Lead Data Engineer – Manchester – £70,000–£75,000 + Bonus
Hybrid – 2–3 days per week in the office
The full job description covers all associated skills, previous experience, and any qualifications that applicants are expected to have.
We’re representing an award-winning, tech-driven organisation in the travel industry that’s scaling its data capability to support rapid growth and digital transformation. They’re seeking a Lead Data Engineer to guide a small, dynamic team and help shape the future of their cloud-based data platform.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a technically strong engineer with a collaborative mindset, someone who can translate complex data challenges into clear business outcomes. You’ll be joining a company where data sits at the heart of decision-making and innovation, working alongside passionate professionals in an ambitious, people-focused culture.
The Role
* Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of two Data Engineers.
* Design, build, and optimise data pipelines and integrations (using dbt, Airbyte, OpenFlow, APIs, and Python) to deliver reliable and scalable data.
* Support the development of a new cloud-based data platform, driving modernisation from legacy Microsoft systems.
* Oversee data architecture, modelling, and automation (including elements of ML Ops).
* Collaborate with Data Scientists, Analysts, and key business stakeholders to deliver insights that drive tangible business value.
* Balance hands-on technical delivery with team leadership and stakeholder engagement.
* Bring structure and prioritisation to a fast-paced, evolving environment.
About You
* Highly proficient in SQL and Python.
* Experience with data modelling (3NF, Kimball) and modern data integration tools.
* Exposure to cloud-based platforms such as Snowflake, BigQuery, or similar is advantageous.
* Experience with DBT, Airbyte, or APIs is desirable.
* Strong communicator who can link data initiatives to commercial outcomes.
* Enjoys mentoring, providing direction, and developing others’ technical growth.
* Comfortable working in a dynamic, evolving environment—able to prioritise and stay calm under pressure.
* Experience with Power BI, Tableau, or similar BI tools is a plus.
* Understanding of GDPR and data governance best practices.
What’s On Offer
* £70,000–£75,000 + annual bonus
* Hybrid working – 2–3 days per week in the Manchester office
* 25 days’ holiday (increasing with service)
* Private medical or healthcare cash plan, pension, and life assurance
* Enhanced parental leave and flexible working culture
* Career growth opportunities within a values-led, award-winning organisation
This is a brilliant opportunity for a skilled data professional ready to step up into leadership or an experienced Lead Data Engineer who enjoys balancing hands-on technical work with mentoring and stakeholder engagement.
Interested? Apply now or contact us in confidence to learn more about the role and interview process.