Lead Data Engineer – London
Summary
A leadership role at a high-growth AI SaaS scale-up in London (hybrid, 4 days/week on-site): manage and mentor a data engineering team, own roadmaps and delivery governance, partner with enterprise clients, and review SQL/Python code and data architecture, with a stated path to Head of Data Engineering.
Lead Data Engineer – London
(Path to Head of DE)
Location: London | Hybrid (4 days/week on-site)
Salary: £85,000 – £95,000 + benefits
Ref: J13147
Are you an experienced Data Engineering Lead ready to step into a high-impact leadership role with a direct track to Head of Data Engineering?
A high-growth AI SaaS scale-up is looking for a Lead Data Engineer to own, scale, and elevate their data function. You’ll lead a brilliant, agile team of engineers, take charge of technical delivery, and act as a strategic bridge between core product teams and enterprise clients.
While this is primarily a management and strategy role, you’ll bring the technical muscle needed to review SQL/Python code, architect modern data solutions, and guide engineering decisions.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Team Leadership: Manage, mentor, and grow a talented team of Data Engineers.
- Delivery & Governance: Own team roadmaps, engineering standards, and quality controls.
- Client & Stakeholder Strategy: Partner directly with external enterprise customers to translate business requirements into scalable, client-facing data products.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work side-by-side with Product, AI, and Software Engineering leaders.
- Technical Oversight: Conduct code and SQL reviews, ensuring best practices across the pipeline lifecycle.
- Function Scaling: Play a pivotal role in expanding the team and building out the long-term data strategy.
What You’ll Bring
- Leadership Track Record: Proven experience leading, managing, or mentoring Data Engineers.
- Technical Depth: Deep SQL proficiency alongside solid exposure to Python and modern cloud data stacks.
- Customer-Centric Mindset: Experience delivering external-facing data solutions and consulting with client stakeholders.
- Commercial Acumen: A decisive, delivery-focused approach accustomed to SaaS, product-led, or fast-paced scale-up environments.
Why Apply?
This is a high-visibility leadership role in a booming AI sector with a clear trajectory toward Head of Department as you scale with the business.
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