Lead Data Engineer

About the role

We are looking for a Lead Data Engineer to join a fast‑growing AI SaaS company in London. Reporting directly to the CTO, you will split your time between hands‑on development of data pipelines and leading a small team of engineers. The role involves close collaboration with data scientists, product managers and enterprise clients to deliver reliable, cloud‑native data solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of three Data Engineers.
• Design and build scalable ETL/ELT pipelines using Azure, Databricks and Microsoft Fabric.
• Develop robust SQL and Python‑based data engineering solutions, including PySpark workloads.
• Work with Data Scientists to productionise AI models.
• Ensure high‑quality data ingestion from multiple source systems.
• Drive engineering best practices, CI/CD and Git‑based workflows.
• Engage directly with enterprise clients to understand requirements and deliver technical solutions.
• Help shape the future direction of the Data Engineering function as the business scales.

Required profile

• Previous experience leading or managing Data Engineers.
• Strong consulting or client‑facing background.
• Advanced degree from a UK university.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Required skills

• SQL
• Python
• PySpark
• Azure
• Microsoft Fabric
• Databricks
• CI/CD
• Git
• Power BI

What we offer

• Salary £85,000‑£90,000 (potentially up to £95,000).
• Four‑day working week with Fridays off.
• Office based in Holborn, London.
• Opportunity to build and shape the Data Engineering function.
• Work on cutting‑edge AI products with commercial impact.