Head of Data

Robert Half Technology are assisting a leading financial services organisation to recruit a Head of Data on a contract basis - London based - start ASAP

A leading financial services company based in London is seeking an accomplished Interim Head of Data to join the business during a pivotal period of digital and data-led transformation. This is a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction of data across the organisation and influence executive-level decision-making.

This role offers a high-impact mandate - overseeing the development of a modern, cloud-based data ecosystem that underpins core business operations, regulatory requirements, and next-generation analytics.

Role

• The Head of Data will develop and execute a group-wide data strategy aligned with business objectives, focusing on governance, scalability, and innovation
• Lead the evolution of a modern data platform using cloud-native technologies (e.g. Snowflake, Azure, GCP, Databricks)
• Manage and mentor cross-functional teams across data engineering, analytics, governance, and data science
• Promote a data-as-a-product culture, enabling self-serve capabilities and empowering business users
• Introduce scalable data governance frameworks using industry-leading tooling (e.g. Collibra, Alation, Monte Carlo)
• Oversee the delivery of AI/ML initiatives and advanced analytics use cases in partnership with business and product teams
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards (FCA, GDPR) while enabling data innovation
• Report directly into senior leadership (e.g., CTO, CDO), influencing data-driven decision-making across the enterprise

Profile

• The Head of Data will have extensive experience in senior data leadership roles, ideally within financial services, fintech, or regulated industries
• Proven success in designing and implementing cloud-based data platforms (Azure, GCP, or AWS)
• Strong knowledge of modern data architecture (e.g., event-driven design, data mesh, ELT pipelines)
• Deep understanding of data governance, privacy, quality, and lineage within regulated environments
• Ability to lead high-performing teams through transformation and change
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills at the executive level

Company

• Market leading financial services organisation with offices in London
• On site required
• Outside IR35

Salary & Benefits

The salary range/rates of pay is dependent upon your experience, qualifications or training.

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