Data Platform Lead

The Data Platform Lead will design, build and own AMS Group's first dedicated data platform, establishing the foundations for reporting, automation, AI‑enablement and long‑term scalability. This is a greenfield, high‑impact role, operating as the standalone senior data authority for the first 6–9 months, requiring strong ownership, pace and technical depth. Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end‑to‑end design and build of the AMS data platform using the Microsoft ecosystem (Azure, Fabric, Databricks, Power BI).
• Develop scalable ETL/ELT pipelines, data models and reporting layers to support business‑wide analytics.
• Integrate data from core business systems across finance, CRM and operations.
• Deliver high‑quality board, executive and operational reporting.
• Define and standardise KPIs to establish a single source of truth across the Group.
• Partner with senior stakeholders to translate business needs into data solutions.
• Set pragmatic data governance, security and quality standards.
• Establish the foundations for a future data function, including standards, frameworks and ways of working. Key Relationships Internal:
• CTO
• Technology team
• Senior Leadership Team External:
• Technology vendors
• Data platform partners Skills, Knowledge & Experience Experience
• Proven experience as a Senior Data Engineer, Data Platform Engineer or Data Lead.
• Demonstrated ability to build a data platform from scratch in a low‑maturity or greenfield environment.
• Experience working with multi‑entity or professional services environments is advantageous.
• Exposure to data governance tooling or AI‑enablement use cases is beneficial. Technical Skills
• Strong hands‑on capability with SQL, Python, ETL/ELT pipelines and data modelling.
• Solid experience across Azure data services, Microsoft Fabric, Databricks and Power BI.
• Ability to engage senior stakeholders, shape direction and influence decision‑making.
• Strong understanding of data governance, security and quality frameworks. Qualifications
• Relevant technical degree or equivalent experience.
• Azure, Databricks or data engineering certifications desirable but not essential. Performance Measures (Success Criteria)
• Successful delivery of the AMS data platform MVP within agreed timelines.
• High‑quality, reliable and scalable data pipelines and reporting layers.
• Adoption of standardised KPIs and a single source of truth across the business.
• Strong stakeholder satisfaction and engagement.
• Clear governance, security and quality frameworks established.
• Foundations laid for future data team growth and capability expansion. AMS Group is a leading UK Top 60 accountancy firm with a differentiated advisory-led proposition, headquartered in Manchester. We have been a trusted name in professional services for over 40 years. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has positioned us as a premier provider in the market. Benefits
• 23 days Holiday
• Additional day off for birthday
• Bonus scheme
• Pension scheme
• Health cash plan
• Company sick pay
• Enhanced parental pay policies
• Perkbox
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Company pension scheme