DATA ARCHITECTURE
TALENT SOLUTIONS
The builders don’t know what to build without the architects' designs. At Harnham we understand the important role highly skilled Data Architects play in delivering successful projects.
Data Architects map out and model the vast and complex data within a modern organisation, select the tools needed to process that data, and put the plan in place so the systems can be developed. Often a very strategic role, modern businesses could not function without data architects in the background. If you’re looking to make the next step in your data career, or are looking to hire the best Data Architecture talent around, Harnham have the network to help.


WHY
HARNHAM?
We provide comprehensive recruitment solutions for both permanent and contract positions, tailored to meet the unique demands of your data architecture projects and initiatives.
Our executive search service is specially designed to identify and recruit leaders in the field of data architecture, who can propel your strategic objectives and technological innovations forward. Leveraging our industry-specific expertise, we operate across various sectors, offering recruitment strategies finely attuned to the distinct challenges and opportunities within each, particularly in data architecture.
Contact us today to discover how our tailored talent solutions can strengthen your organization's data architecture capabilities.
OUR
SERVICES
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Permanent and Contract Recruitment: We provide both permanent and contract recruitment solutions, ensuring flexibility to meet the evolving needs of your data architecture projects.
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Executive Search: Our executive search service is tailored to identify and secure leaders in the data architecture field, who can drive your business strategies and technological advancements.
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Industry-Specific Expertise: We operate across various industries, offering specialized recruitment solutions that understand and cater to the unique challenges and opportunities within data architecture in your sector.
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Contact us today to learn how our bespoke talent solutions can enhance your organization's data architecture capabilities.

JOBS
LATEST
OPPORTUNITIES
Harnham are a specialist Data & AI recruitment business with teams that only focus on niche areas.

Senior Manager of Data Architecture and Data Governance
San Antonio
$150000 - $185000
+ Data Engineering
PermanentSan Antonio, Texas
To Apply for this Job Click Here
Senior Manager of Architecture & Data Governance
Onsite in San Antonio, Texas
Open to candidates who are open to relocating to the San Antonio, Texas area
$150,000 – $185,000 base
An established company entering a new era of innovation is seeking a Senior Manager of Architecture & Data Governance to lead the transformation of its data infrastructure and governance from the ground up. This is a high-impact role for a hands-on data leader eager to design and implement scalable frameworks that support enterprise-wide decision-making.
If you’re passionate about building modern data ecosystems where none currently exist, influencing enterprise architecture strategy, and ensuring trusted, secure, and well-governed data across the organization-this is your opportunity to own that vision.
What You’ll Own
- Define and implement the company’s enterprise-wide data architecture and governance strategy
- Design systems that support data lakes, data warehouses, real-time platforms, and emerging analytics tools
- Establish and operationalize governance standards: metadata management, lineage, access controls, quality, and compliance
- Lead data quality initiatives and implement scalable solutions for classification, cataloging, and stewardship
- Partner with cross-functional teams (IT, Operations, Legal, HR, and Executive Leadership) to guide responsible data use and shape data-driven culture
- Advise senior leaders on data risk, compliance, and strategic infrastructure planning
- Opportunity to grow and manage a team over time
What You Bring
- 6-8+ years in data architecture, data governance, or enterprise data management roles
- Experience building and operationalizing data infrastructure and governance frameworks from scratch
- Expertise in Azure or similar cloud-based data environments
- Strong knowledge of data management frameworks and compliance standards
- Familiarity with ETL tools, data cataloging platforms, metadata systems, and security protocols
- Exceptional cross-functional communication skills. You can prove your ability to engage both technical and non-technical stakeholders with clarity and confidence
Preferred Experience
- Exposure to operations-heavy environments with data use cases spanning labor, HR, and supply chain
- Comfort with fast-paced, evolving technical environments and an openness to redefining the tech stack as needed
To Apply for this Job Click Here

Director of Architecture and Data Governance
San Antonio
$160000 - $190000
+ Data Engineering
PermanentSan Antonio, Texas
To Apply for this Job Click Here
The Role
We’re hiring a Director of Data Architecture & Governance to build the foundation of enterprise data across a complex, multi-system environment. This is a highly strategic, hands-on leadership role. You’ll define the data architecture, implement governance standards, and ensure trusted, compliant data flows across core business systems-spanning finance, operations, HR, and more.
This is the right role for someone who’s led data strategy at scale and is ready to take ownership of a company-wide transformation.
This role does not provide sponsorship and being on-site in San Antonio is non-negotiable
What You’ll Do
- Architect and maintain enterprise data systems including data lakes, warehouses, and real-time pipelines
- Define and enforce data governance policies across business-critical systems (POS, HRIS, finance, supply chain, etc.)
- Standardize metadata, master data, lineage, and stewardship practices across the organization
- Select and implement tools for data cataloging, access control, and classification
- Partner with Legal, IT, HR, and Operations to ensure responsible and compliant data usage
- Lead data quality efforts including validation, cleansing, and auditing
- Serve as a strategic advisor to executive leadership on data infrastructure, risk, and scalability
What We’re Looking For
- 8+ years of experience in data architecture, governance, or enterprise data management
- Proven ability to design scalable, cloud-based data systems (e.g., AWS, GCP, Snowflake)
- Experience with governance frameworks (e.g., DAMA, DMBOK) and compliance requirements (e.g., CCPA, PCI)
- Familiarity with ETL tools, metadata platforms, and data security standards
- Strong leadership, documentation, and cross-functional communication skills
- A systems thinker with a passion for building clean, scalable, business-ready data environments
To Apply for this Job Click Here

Data Architect
Manchester
£85000 - £90000
+ Data Engineering
PermanentManchester, Greater Manchester
To Apply for this Job Click Here
DATA ARCHITECT
Up to £90,000
MANCHESTER (Hybrid)
This opportunity is ideal for a hands-on Data Architect who wants to shape a growing data function while remaining close to the technology. You’ll play a key role in migrating from On-Prem to Azure and help define the future data architecture across the business.
THE COMPANY:
A leading digital consumer brand with millions of active users, heavily investing in their data strategy as part of a wider transformation programme. Data is at the heart of their five-year plan, and this is a chance to join right at the start of that journey, building out a modern Azure-based data platform.
THE ROLE:
As the Data Architect, you will:
- Lead the migration from On-Prem to Azure, delivering a new data warehouse.
- Define architectural standards, patterns, and best practices across the data estate.
- Work closely with BI and Data Engineers to deliver scalable solutions.
- Remain hands-on with SQL and Azure technologies.
- Support the design of new, greenfield data initiatives once the migration is complete.
- Act as the first permanent architect hire – shaping the future direction of the data architecture function.
YOUR SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
A successful Data Architect will have the following:
- Strong SQL and Azure experience.
- Background in Online, eCommerce, or Digital environments
- Databricks experience (desirable).
- Confident working autonomously within a lean data team.
- Experience handling large-scale customer data environments.
- Exposure to On-Prem → Cloud migrations (advantageous).
THE BENEFITS:
You will receive a competitive salary of up to £90,000, dependent on experience.
HOW TO APPLY:
Please register your interest by sending your CV to Molly Bird via the apply link on this page.
To Apply for this Job Click Here

Azure Cloud & Infrastructure Architect Manager
Amsterdam
€90000 - €130000
+ Data Engineering
PermanentAmsterdam, North Holland
To Apply for this Job Click Here
Azure Cloud Architect / Infrastructure Architect
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Up to 130k annually
About the Company
A leading B2B distributor of building materials with over 10,000 employees and a billion-euro turnover, operating at scale across multiple markets. The company combines a strong operational backbone with ambitious digital transformation initiatives, providing a unique opportunity to shape IT strategy in a large, fast-moving organization.
The Role
As Azure Architect & IT Operations Manager, you will drive the strategy, governance, and operational management of the company’s Azure cloud environment. You will oversee the architecture team, maintain landing zones, manage IT infrastructure, and ensure secure, efficient IT operations. Your work will directly influence cloud transformation and operational excellence across the organization.
Responsibilities
- Lead the Azure architecture team (3-4 architects) and provide strategic direction
- Design, maintain, and optimize Azure landing zones and IT infrastructure
- Oversee IT governance, security, and operational best practices
- Drive cloud transformation initiatives across the organization
- Manage stakeholders at multiple levels, including senior management and operational teams
- Ensure continuity, reliability, and scalability of IT services
Skills & Experience
- 5+ years of leadership experience in large IT organizations
- Hands-on experience with Azure cloud architecture and IT operations
- Background in IT infrastructure, governance, and security
- Proven ability to manage stakeholders and drive complex cloud transformation projects
- Experience in building and maintaining scalable, secure Azure environments
- Strong communication and leadership skills
To Apply for this Job Click Here

Data Architect
London
£110000 - £118000
+ Data Engineering
PermanentLondon
To Apply for this Job Click Here
Role: Senior / Principal Data Architect
Salary: £115,000 – £118,000 + Bonus
WFH: 3 Days/Week Onsite (Shoreditch)
Overview
Our client, a leading global technology and business consultancy focused on financial services, is hiring a Senior / Principal Data Architect to join their award-winning Data Practice. This is a hands-on architecture and leadership role, supporting major banking and financial services clients with modernising data infrastructure, guiding cloud transformation, and shaping scalable, best-in-class data platforms.
You’ll join a team of 800+ data professionals in a collaborative, inclusive environment that encourages innovation and values individuality. If you’re passionate about strategy, architecture, and delivering meaningful impact in data-driven transformations, this is an opportunity to lead from the front.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead complex agile consulting projects focused on data architecture design and delivery
- Advise technology leaders on modern best practices in data management
- Develop cloud-based enterprise data platforms using AWS, Azure, or GCP
- Define services and frameworks that enable efficient, scalable, and secure data management
- Contribute to internal IP and delivery frameworks across the firm’s data practice
- Manage small project teams and support capability building and business development
Ideal Candidate
- Proven experience designing and implementing enterprise data strategies and governance
- Deep knowledge of contextual, logical, and physical data modelling
- Hands-on experience with cloud data migration and architecture (AWS, Azure, or GCP)
- Strong grasp of metadata management, data privacy/security frameworks, and cloud ecosystem best practices
- Financial services project experience preferred, with stakeholder-facing communication skills
- Comfortable operating across complex environments, leading multiple workstreams
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Cloud architecture certifications (AWS/GCP/Azure)
- Experience designing data lakes and modern cloud storage patterns
- Familiarity with data cataloguing, classification, and semantic/graph modelling
- Exposure to ESG data, risk/compliance platforms, or financial crime data architectures
- An understanding of cloud cost management, automation, and network architecture
Tech Domains
- Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, GCP
- Data Management: Metadata tools, privacy frameworks, security architecture
- Modelling: ER, Contextual, Semantic, Logical/Physical
- Orchestration & Integration: API design, DevOps support, cloud-native workflows
Why Join?
- Work on high-impact transformation projects with top-tier global banks
- Join an agile, innovation-focused culture with flat structure and open collaboration
- Learn and grow in a highly supportive environment with extensive L&D support
- Inclusive and diverse culture with enhanced family-friendly policies
- Join the multi-award-winning data team, voted Best Consultancy in Data Management and ESG
Interview Process
- Initial Discussion – Culture, expectations, and mutual fit
- Technical/Project Interview(s) – Assessing delivery experience and architectural thinking
- Final Interview – Client-facing alignment and career progression discussion
To Apply for this Job Click Here

IT Operations Manager – Azure
Amsterdam
€100000 - €130000
+ Data Engineering
PermanentNetherlands
To Apply for this Job Click Here
Job Description: Azure Data Architect (Enterprise Landing Zones)
Position: Azure Data Architect
Location: Amsterdam
Employment Type: [Full-time/Contract]
About the Role
This company are, looking for an experienced Azure Data Architect to design and deliver scalable, secure, and resilient data landing zones across the global enterprise. This role will focus on shaping the foundation of our Azure data ecosystem to support a diverse set of business units and geographies.
The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in Microsoft’s Cloud Adoption Framework (CAF), enterprise-scale landing zone design, and the ability to navigate the complexities of large-scale, multi-region environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Architect and implement enterprise-scale Azure data landing zones that support global operations, ensuring scalability, performance, and security across multiple regions.
- Collaborate with global business and IT stakeholders to design data platforms aligned to corporate strategy and industry best practices.
- Define and enforce data governance, compliance, and security standards (e.g., RBAC, encryption, data residency, privacy regulations).
- Establish repeatable frameworks and patterns for data ingestion, transformation, storage, and analytics in large-scale environments.
- Partner with engineering teams to deliver end-to-end data solutions using Azure services (Data Lake, Synapse, Databricks, Data Factory, Purview, Event Hubs, Azure SQL).
- Lead data modernization initiatives, including cloud migrations from legacy and hybrid environments.
- Optimize for global scale and performance, including multi-region replication, disaster recovery, and cost management.
- Mentor teams and provide architectural leadership across multiple business units and time zones.
- Stay at the forefront of Azure innovations, driving adoption of new features and services to improve enterprise capabilities.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in data architecture, with at least 5+ years building solutions on Azure.
- Proven experience designing and deploying Azure Landing Zones at enterprise scale.
- Hands-on expertise with Azure Data Services: Data Lake, Synapse, Databricks, Data Factory, Event Hub, Azure SQL/MI, and Purview.
- Strong knowledge of global-scale architecture, including data residency, sovereignty, and compliance (GDPR, HIPAA, etc.).
- Experience managing large, multi-region cloud environments in a global enterprise.
- Proficiency with Infrastructure as Code (Terraform/Bicep/ARM) and DevOps practices for data platform deployment.
- Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and communicate complex technical concepts clearly.
- Preferred certifications: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure Data Engineer Associate, Azure Security Engineer Associate.
Why Join
- Play a strategic role in shaping a global Azure data platform at enterprise scale.
- Work with cutting-edge cloud, data, and AI technologies in a complex, international environment.
- Collaborate with a diverse team across multiple regions, impacting business decisions worldwide.
- Competitive compensation, global career growth opportunities, and a culture of innovation.
To Apply for this Job Click Here

Data Architect – Azure
€100000 - €130000
+ Data Engineering
PermanentNetherlands
To Apply for this Job Click Here
Job Description: Azure Data Architect (Enterprise Landing Zones)
Position: Azure Data Architect
Location: Amsterdam
Employment Type: [Full-time/Contract]
About the Role
This company are, looking for an experienced Azure Data Architect to design and deliver scalable, secure, and resilient data landing zones across the global enterprise. This role will focus on shaping the foundation of our Azure data ecosystem to support a diverse set of business units and geographies.
The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in Microsoft’s Cloud Adoption Framework (CAF), enterprise-scale landing zone design, and the ability to navigate the complexities of large-scale, multi-region environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Architect and implement enterprise-scale Azure data landing zones that support global operations, ensuring scalability, performance, and security across multiple regions.
- Collaborate with global business and IT stakeholders to design data platforms aligned to corporate strategy and industry best practices.
- Define and enforce data governance, compliance, and security standards (e.g., RBAC, encryption, data residency, privacy regulations).
- Establish repeatable frameworks and patterns for data ingestion, transformation, storage, and analytics in large-scale environments.
- Partner with engineering teams to deliver end-to-end data solutions using Azure services (Data Lake, Synapse, Databricks, Data Factory, Purview, Event Hubs, Azure SQL).
- Lead data modernization initiatives, including cloud migrations from legacy and hybrid environments.
- Optimize for global scale and performance, including multi-region replication, disaster recovery, and cost management.
- Mentor teams and provide architectural leadership across multiple business units and time zones.
- Stay at the forefront of Azure innovations, driving adoption of new features and services to improve enterprise capabilities.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in data architecture, with at least 5+ years building solutions on Azure.
- Proven experience designing and deploying Azure Landing Zones at enterprise scale.
- Hands-on expertise with Azure Data Services: Data Lake, Synapse, Databricks, Data Factory, Event Hub, Azure SQL/MI, and Purview.
- Strong knowledge of global-scale architecture, including data residency, sovereignty, and compliance (GDPR, HIPAA, etc.).
- Experience managing large, multi-region cloud environments in a global enterprise.
- Proficiency with Infrastructure as Code (Terraform/Bicep/ARM) and DevOps practices for data platform deployment.
- Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and communicate complex technical concepts clearly.
- Preferred certifications: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Azure Data Engineer Associate, Azure Security Engineer Associate.
Why Join
- Play a strategic role in shaping a global Azure data platform at enterprise scale.
- Work with cutting-edge cloud, data, and AI technologies in a complex, international environment.
- Collaborate with a diverse team across multiple regions, impacting business decisions worldwide.
- Competitive compensation, global career growth opportunities, and a culture of innovation.
To Apply for this Job Click Here

Data Architect
London
£95000 - £100000
+ Data Engineering
PermanentLondon
To Apply for this Job Click Here
Data Architect – Music Space
London – Hybrid – £100,000
I’m working with a leading organisation in the creative and digital industry that is looking for an experienced Data Architect to join their growing technology and data function. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of their enterprise data landscape, working with cutting-edge tools and influencing strategy at the highest level.
Company
My client manages a vast and complex dataset that underpins critical business operations worldwide. They are investing heavily in their data and analytics capabilities, with modern cloud platforms and advanced modelling techniques at the core of their strategy. This is a business where data truly matters, and you’ll have the chance to make a lasting impact.
Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
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Lead the design and delivery of enterprise data architecture.
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Set and own data principles, modelling standards, and best practices.
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Manage and mentor a skilled team of Data Engineers.
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Partner with senior business and technology stakeholders to align data solutions with strategy.
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Work hands-on with modern tools such as Snowflake, DBT, Python, and Spark.
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Support data governance and international data exchange initiatives.
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Stay ahead of emerging technologies to keep the data platform best-in-class.
Requirements
The successful candidate will bring:
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Strong track record designing and architecting complex, high-volume data systems.
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Expertise in data modelling (relational, dimensional, and ideally Data Vault).
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Hands-on experience with cloud-based data platforms (AWS, Snowflake, DBT, Spark, Python).
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Knowledge of data governance, compliance, and security best practices.
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Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence technical and non-technical stakeholders.
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Leadership experience managing and motivating technical teams.
Benefits
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Competitive salary and benefits package.
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Flexible working with hybrid options.
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The chance to shape enterprise-wide data strategy.
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Exposure to international data initiatives and partnerships.
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A culture that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth.
If you’re an experienced Data Architect looking for a role where you can truly make an impact, I’d love to have a confidential conversation with you. Please get in touch to learn more.
To Apply for this Job Click Here

Data Architect
London
£550 - £600
+ Data Engineering
ContractLondon
To Apply for this Job Click Here
DATA ARCHITECT
£550 – £600 per day
6 – months
We are representing a leading UK organisation recognised for its large-scale operations, strong public profile, and commitment to digital transformation. The organisation is undergoing a significant modernisation programme, with investment in technology, data, and cloud platforms to drive efficiency, transparency, and innovation across all business functions. With an emphasis on collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement, this organisation is seeking top-tier talent to help shape its future.
Role Overview & Responsibilities
Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Data Architect to play a pivotal role in the migration of Finance and HR divisions onto Workday. This contractor will be instrumental in shaping the organisation’s data strategy, building scalable architecture solutions, and ensuring data integrity, security, and governance.
Key responsibilities include:
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Designing and implementing scalable data architecture solutions aligned with business and industry standards.
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Supporting the migration of Finance and HR data and systems into Workday.
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Managing critical data elements in Purview Data Catalogue and ensuring effective usage across the business.
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Establishing and enforcing data governance, quality, and security standards.
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Developing a data operating model for BAU and ongoing product adoption.
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Driving data architecture evolution to support advanced analytics and AI over the next four years.
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Collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders to translate business requirements into data solutions.
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Providing technical leadership and mentorship to data architects, engineers, and analysts.
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Staying up to date with new technologies, and recommending improvements to architecture practices.
Technical Skills & Experience
Must-have:
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Extensive experience designing and implementing enterprise-scale data architectures
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Proficiency in data integration and ETL processes.
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Advanced skills in SQL, Python, or equivalent programming languages.
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Strong knowledge of data governance, data security, and compliance frameworks.
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Expertise in Master & Reference Data Management and Data Quality best practices.
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Cloud-based architecture experience (AWS, Azure, or GCP).
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Experience implementing data management frameworks and operating models.
Desirable:
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Master’s degree or DAMA certification (CDMP).Proven expertise with Workday product and data integrations.
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Experience across different database architectures (Lakehouse, Relational, Document Store).
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Familiarity with observability tools, BI platforms (Power BI), or Agile methods.
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Knowledge of advanced analytics, data science, or NLP techniques.
Soft Skills
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Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, able to bridge technical and non-technical conversations.
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Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and documentation skills.
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Proven leadership with the ability to mentor and guide teams.
To Apply for this Job Click Here

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News & Blog
With over 10 years experience working solely in the Data & AI sector our consultants are able to offer detailed insights into the industry.
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