Interim Head of Data & DevOps
Overview:
Our London based client is seeking a forward-thinking Interim Head of Data & DevOps to lead the evolution of their technology platforms. This critical role will drive the design, delivery, and operation of their data and software engineering capabilities embedding modern DataOps, DevOps, and product-centric practices that support business growth and innovation.
Working across a Microsoft-based technology ecosystem, the Head of Data and DevOps will play a hands-on leadership role in delivering secure, scalable, and high-performing platforms for application development, analytics, AI, and enterprise data. The successful candidate will set technical direction, manage strategic suppliers, and lead a high-performing in-house and offshore team.
The successful candidate must be able to commit to being on site at the clients central London office 3 days per week.
Key Responsibilities
* Leadership & Strategy
o Lead high-performing onshore and offshore teams across DevOps, engineering, and data promoting innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
o Shape and execute the technical roadmap for data, DevOps, and AI platforms aligned with the organisation's strategic objectives.
o Contribute to the broader Group Technology strategy defining priorities and building a high-performing, inclusive culture.
* Platform & Architecture Ownership
o Define and drive the architectural vision for cloud-based platforms (Azure), data products, and AI capabilities.
o Ensure platforms are secure, scalable, and resilient supporting enterprise-grade analytics, machine learning, and operational excellence.
o Embed governance, data quality, and compliance into all data practices.
* Ways of Working
o Champion modern engineering practices including DevOps, DataOps, DevSecOps, and agile delivery.
o Drive adoption of CI/CD, automated testing, and cloud-native development.
o Lead the cultural shift towards product-centric ways of working across teams.
* Delivery & Operations
o Manage and develop in-house teams and offshore delivery partners ensuring quality, consistency, and accountability.
o Oversee strategic vendor relationships to ensure high-value service delivery.
* Stakeholder Engagement
o Partner with senior business leaders to translate emerging technologies into strategic value.
o Communicate technical concepts clearly and persuasively to non-technical stakeholders.
Required Experience & Expertise
Technical Skills
* 8+ years in senior technology leadership roles with responsibility for engineering, data, and platform strategy.
* Proven experience leading distributed teams (onshore/offshore) and fostering high-performance culture.
* Expertise in modern architecture patterns, secure design, and Microsoft's data and cloud ecosystem:
o Azure, Kubernetes, Azure DevOps / GitHub Enterprise.
o Power BI, Fabric, Synapse, Databricks, Purview.
* Strong understanding of DevSecOps, DataSecOps, and regulatory compliance (e.g. GDPR).
* Experience building platforms to support AI/ML and advanced analytics.
* Demonstrated success in embedding agile and product-centric approaches to deliver business outcomes.
Leadership & Personal Attributes
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Strategic thinker with the ability to deliver tactically and influence long-term direction.
* Empathetic, collaborative leader who can inspire teams and develop talent.
* Highly organised, adaptable, and proactive in managing competing priorities.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the digital foundation of an organisation with a forward-looking vision. Our client is committed to leveraging technology to unlock business value, drive innovation, and make a positive impact across its operations and wider ecosystem.
If the role is of interest then please share your CV and we will contact you at our earliest possible convenience.