Head of Data Engineering

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Head of Data Engineering based in United Arab Emirates.

This role offers the opportunity to lead the evolution of a global-scale data ecosystem within a fast-growing technology environment.
You will define the architecture, engineering standards, and strategic direction that power business intelligence and data-driven decisions.
As a technical leader, you will build scalable platforms, strengthen data reliability, and enable advanced analytics and machine learning capabilities.
You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to transform complex business needs into impactful technical solutions.
The role combines hands-on technical expertise, team leadership, and long-term vision to shape the future of data infrastructure.
You will have the autonomy to influence technology choices and establish best practices in a remote-first culture.

As the Head of Data Engineering, you will own the strategy, architecture, and execution of a scalable data environment that supports global operations and innovation. You will lead engineering teams, improve data capabilities, and ensure reliable systems that empower business growth.

• Design, develop, and continuously improve a scalable data architecture capable of supporting rapid global expansion.
• Define engineering standards for data pipelines, including CI/CD practices, automation, version control, and operational excellence.
• Ensure data reliability, security, governance, and performance across platforms supporting analytics and machine learning initiatives.
• Lead strategic technology decisions, including the selection and adoption of cloud platforms, tools, and data engineering solutions.
• Build and mentor high-performing data engineering teams, fostering technical ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Guide the development of efficient ETL/ELT solutions and modern data workflows.
• Partner with business, product, analytics, and technical stakeholders to translate complex requirements into scalable solutions.
• Establish processes that improve data quality, accessibility, and the overall effectiveness of the data organization.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate is a strategic and hands-on data engineering leader with extensive experience building scalable data platforms and managing high-performing engineering teams.

• Proven experience leading data engineering functions within a high-growth, scale-up, or technology-driven environment.
• 3+ years of experience managing and developing engineering teams, with a strong ability to mentor and inspire technical talent.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience with programming languages such as Python, Java, or Scala for building complex data systems.
• Deep knowledge of data architecture, data warehousing, big data technologies, and cloud infrastructure.
• Strong experience working with relational and NoSQL databases at scale.
• Expertise with the Google Cloud Platform (GCP) ecosystem and modern cloud-based data solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to design secure, reliable, and high-performance data pipelines.
• Strong technical leadership skills with the ability to drive engineering excellence and ownership.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across multiple teams.
• Advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is a plus.

Benefits:

• Remote-first work environment with flexibility to work from anywhere in the world.
• Opportunity to shape the technical strategy and data infrastructure of a global technology organization.
• Work-life balance culture designed to support sustainable performance and innovation.
• High-impact leadership role with ownership over critical data systems and engineering practices.
• Opportunity to work with international teams and contribute to products used globally.