Head of Data Engineering

Allianz UK is seeking a Head of Data Engineering to play a pivotal role in shaping how data platforms and engineering capabilities enable decision making across the organisation. You will lead and evolve Allianz’s Data Engineering capability, driving large-scale transformation to modern, cloud-first platforms while delivering high-quality, business-critical data solutions. This is a strategic leadership role with significant influence across our UK business and data strategy. Location: This role can be based in London, Guildford or Bournemouth, with an expectation to attend the office 50% of the time. Pay is based on experience, skills and location and forms part of a competitive total rewards package. About You • You will define and lead the data engineering strategy, aligned to enterprise data, digital and AI ambitions • You will drive the migration from legacy platforms (e.g. SAS, Oracle) to modern cloud-based environments such as Databricks • You will build, inspire and lead multi-disciplinary engineering teams across multiple locations • You will embed agile ways of working, creating outcome-focused, high-performing squads • You will foster a culture of ownership, accountability, transparency and continuous improvement • You will partner with senior stakeholders to shape priorities and deliver business value through data • You will establish delivery frameworks including OKRs, metrics and data SLAs to drive performance and visibility • You will ensure engineering excellence through adoption of modern practices such as DataOps, CI/CD and automation Essential Skills • Strong leadership experience within data engineering, including large-scale transformation programmes • Deep expertise in cloud data platforms, lakehouse architectures, and modern data engineering practices • Proven ability to lead and scale engineering teams across multiple locations and disciplines • Experience embedding agile methodologies and product-centric delivery models • Experience migrating from legacy technologies to modern cloud-native platforms • Strong stakeholder management and ability to influence at senior/executive level • Knowledge of data governance, security, and regulatory requirements within a regulated environment • Excellent communication skills, able to translate technical concepts into business value Desirable Skills • Experience within insurance or regulated financial services environments • Familiarity with Databricks and AI-augmented engineering tooling (e.g. Copilot, LLMs) • Exposure to regulatory frameworks such as Solvency II or IFRS 17 • Responsible Artificial Intelligence usage What We Will Offer You Recognised and rewarded for a job well done, we have a range of flexible benefits for you to choose from- so you can pick a package that’s perfect for you. We also offer flexible working options, global career opportunities across the wider Allianz Group, and fantastic career development and training. That’s on top of enjoying all the benefits you’d expect from the world’s number one insurance brand, including: • Flexible buy/sell holiday options • Hybrid working • Annual performance related bonus • Contributory pension scheme • Development days • A discount up to 50% on a range of insurance products including car, home and pet • Retail discounts • Volunteering days