Data Director

Job Description Data Director

Location: Milton Keynes

Salary: 75,000 80,000 + bonus + benefits

Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Data Director to lead the data strategy and operations for a large, multi-division organisation in the property and financial services sector. This role will be central to shaping the companys data vision, embedding a culture of data-driven decision making, and ensuring data is leveraged as a key driver of growth, efficiency, and innovation.

The successful candidate will combine technical depth with strategic leadership, working closely with senior executives to deliver a modern, scalable data environment that supports advanced analytics, AI, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Data Strategy & Vision

• Define and deliver the organisations long-term data strategy, ensuring alignment with commercial objectives.
• Drive initiatives that unlock value from data, including insights, monetisation, and operational improvements.

Leadership & Team Development

• Build and lead a high-performing data function, recruiting and mentoring specialists across engineering, analytics, and governance.
• Foster a collaborative, innovative culture with a focus on delivery and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the senior data authority, engaging with board-level stakeholders to influence decision-making.
• Translate complex technical concepts into clear business outcomes.

Technology & Innovation

• Oversee the design and delivery of modern data platforms, including cloud-based architecture and integration frameworks.
• Champion the adoption of AI and machine learning, embedding predictive and intelligent solutions into business processes.

Governance & Compliance

• Establish and chair data governance forums, ensuring data quality, security, and ethical use.
• Maintain compliance with GDPR, FCA, and other relevant regulations.

Vendor & Partner Management

• Manage external suppliers and technology partners, ensuring value for money and service excellence.
• Develop internal capability to reduce reliance on third parties over time.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven track record of delivering enterprise-scale data programmes at senior leadership level.
• Strong background in data architecture, engineering, and governance within a cloud environment (Azure preferred).
• Hands-on expertise with SQL, Python, Power BI, and exposure to Microsoft Fabric or similar platforms.
• Experience embedding AI/ML solutions into business applications.
• Demonstrated success in board reporting and influencing executive stakeholders.
• Experience managing technical teams (up to 20 people) and delivering against SLAs.
• Knowledge of event-driven architectures and real-time data streaming.
• Sector experience in estate agency, property services, or financial services is highly desirable.

Candidate Profile

• Strategic thinker with the ability to set vision and direction while remaining hands-on when required.
• Strong communicator, able to bridge the gap between technical teams and business leaders.
• Commercially astute, with a track record of delivering measurable business value through data.
• Passionate about innovation, transformation, and embedding a data-first culture.