CoE / Operating Model Lead

CoE / Operating Model Lead

Location: London (3 days onsite, 2 days remote)Rate: £425 per day (Inside IR35)Contract: Initial 3 months, rolling extension potentialSector: Banking / Insurance

We're currently seeking an experienced CoE / Operating Model Lead to support the establishment and maturation of a Data Engineering Centre of Excellence (CoE) within a major Banking/Insurance organisation.

Working closely with the Data Engineering CoE Lead, you will play a key role in defining the strategy, governance, operating model, and technical framework required to drive consistency and best practice across multiple data platforms.

Key Responsibilities

Centre of Excellence Setup & Governance

• Draft and establish the Data Engineering CoE Charter.
• Define the CoE vision, objectives, and operating model.
• Develop and maintain the CoE roadmap, ensuring alignment with broader business and technology strategies.
• Define, implement, and measure governance standards, policies, and success metrics.
• Establish best practices and adoption frameworks across data engineering teams.

Technical Strategy & Frameworks

• Identify industry-leading frameworks, methodologies, and tooling suitable for the organisation.
• Run Proofs of Concept (PoCs) to evaluate potential frameworks and technologies.
• Create implementation roadmaps for approved frameworks and standards.
• Drive consistency, measurement, and continuous improvement across data engineering practices.

Data Platform Alignment

• Improve alignment between multiple data platforms, including Claims and Enterprise Data environments.
• Support the creation of a unified operating model across operationally separate data functions.
• Drive standardisation while recognising the unique requirements of individual business units.
• Promote collaboration, knowledge sharing, and governance under a single organisational umbrella.

Essential Experience

• Proven experience establishing or leading a Centre of Excellence (CoE) within a data, technology, or engineering function.
• Strong experience designing and implementing operating models, governance frameworks, and organisational standards.
• Background in Data Engineering, Data Platforms, Data Architecture, or Data Management environments.
• Experience creating roadmaps, charters, and strategic transformation initiatives.
• Ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders across both business and technology teams.
• Previous experience within Banking, Financial Services, or Insurance environments.