Head of Data & AI Platforms & Engineering

Head of Data & AI Platforms & Engineering

Location: London

Working Arrangement: Flexible working available

Contract: Permanent, full-time

Overview

Our client is an international insurance business seeking a senior technology leader to head its Data & AI Platforms & Engineering function.

The role is responsible for the strategy, evolution and day-to-day operation of the organisation’s data and AI platform estate, supporting trusted business intelligence, advanced analytics and AI capabilities.

The successful candidate will lead data engineering and platform operations teams, oversee large-scale transformation activity and ensure platforms remain secure, resilient, scalable and aligned with enterprise priorities.

Responsibilities

• Own the strategy and roadmap for data and AI platforms, including data hubs, analytics platforms and data consumption platforms.
• Define and implement data platform architecture, engineering standards and design patterns aligned with enterprise direction.
• Lead data platform change initiatives while maintaining stable business-as-usual operations.
• Own platform operations, including reliability, performance, scalability and security.
• Establish, manage and report against SLAs and OLAs across data platforms and services.
• Ensure compliance with security, privacy and regulatory requirements.
• Implement frameworks for data quality, observability, lineage and metadata in partnership with governance teams.
• Oversee operational monitoring, incident management and continuous optimisation of platform services.
• Build and lead high-performing data engineering and platform operations teams.
• Manage third-party vendors and partners to support effective delivery and value for money.

Requirements

• Proven senior leadership experience in data platform, data engineering or analytics engineering roles.
• Deep understanding of modern data and AI platform architectures and cloud-based ecosystems.
• Demonstrated experience delivering large-scale data platform transformation and operating enterprise platforms.
• Strong understanding of data governance, security, risk management and regulatory compliance.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams and managing third-party suppliers.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills at senior level.
• Pragmatic leadership style with the ability to balance innovation and operational rigour.

Benefits

• 30 days’ annual leave.
• Option to purchase up to 2 additional days of annual leave.
• Flexible working options, including part-time, job share and compressed hours.
• Employer pension contribution of 10% of basic salary.

Application Process

Applications should be submitted through the website.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Sponsorship may be considered at the employer’s discretion.