Head of Data & Architecture

Reporting to the Chief Technology Officer, this newly created leadership role will bring together accountability for Data Strategy, Data Governance, Data Engineering and Enterprise Architecture. The role will define the strategic foundations required to support CES's future growth, working across Technology, Product and business functions to improve data maturity, strengthen governance, guide platform evolution and provide strategic leadership across enterprise architecture, data platforms, master data management and emerging AI opportunities.

Responsibilities

Define and lead CES's enterprise Data & Architecture strategy, ensuring both disciplines support business growth, scalability and future platform evolution; Establish clear governance, ownership and decision-making frameworks across data, architecture and technology strategy; Mature CES's data capability, including data governance, data quality, master data management and enterprise data practices; Shape the future direction of CES's data platforms and engineering capability, ensuring scalable and reliable foundations for the organisation; Establish enterprise architecture principles, standards and target-state roadmaps that reduce complexity and support long-term growth; Guide strategic technology decisions across platforms, integrations, APIs, data services and emerging technologies, including AI opportunities; Build strong partnerships across Technology and the broader business, translating complex technical concepts into clear business outcomes and recommendations; Develop the operating model, team capability and future organisational structure required to scale the Data & Architecture function over time

Requirements

Significant experience leading enterprise Data, Data Engineering, Data Platform or Architecture functions within complex organisations; Proven success establishing or maturing data governance, data strategy and architecture capabilities; Experience defining enterprise-wide operating models, governance frameworks and strategic roadmaps; Strong understanding of modern data platforms, cloud ecosystems and data management practices; Experience operating at senior leadership level with responsibility for organisational outcomes rather than individual technical delivery; Experience leading teams, building capability and influencing across multiple stakeholders

Nice to have

Experience with Snowflake or modern cloud-native data platforms; Exposure to Master Data Management (MDM) programs; Experience establishing AI strategies, governance frameworks or data-driven products; Background in SaaS, fintech, digital platforms or highly regulated environments; Experience building client-facing data products or information services

Benefits

Inclusive culture; Hybrid and flexible working; Career development