Data Architect Python (ESP/UK)

Job Summary
We are looking for an experienced Data Architect to lead the definition of data architecture for a new, data-driven product. This role will focus on assessing, structuring, and integrating fragmented datasets (rankings, submissions, engagement data) to enable a scalable, decision-support platform for in-house legal teams.
The role combines hands-on data analysis with architectural design, shaping how data is ingested, mapped, transformed, and governed to support a viable MVP. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in early-stage product environments, balancing technical feasibility with product outcomes, and operating across ambiguous data landscapes.
Key Responsibilities
Data Architecture & Discovery

Assess data sources, structures, and quality across multiple systems

Define data ingestion, mapping, and transformation strategies to unify disparate datasets

Design target data architecture to support a scalable MVP (e.g. multi-source integration, golden record approach)

Identify gaps, risks, and constraints in current data that impact product feasibility

System Design & Technical Definition

Define data models, schemas, and integration patterns aligned to product requirements

Establish approaches for data governance, lineage, and quality management

Collaborate with product, UX, and engineering to ensure architecture supports user needs and workflows

Make pragmatic trade-offs between speed, complexity, and scalability in an MVP context

Hands-on Delivery & Prototyping

Work directly with datasets to validate assumptions and inform architecture decisions

Support prototyping of data flows, pipelines, and transformations

Contribute to early-stage technical solutions where required (Python, SQL, etc.)

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

Work closely with stakeholders to understand data ownership, constraints, and priorities

Support user research and validation by ensuring data feasibility aligns with product concepts

Translate complex data challenges into clear, actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders

Key Qualifications / Skills

Proven experience as a Data Architect, Senior Data Engineer, or similar

Strong experience working with fragmented or multi-source data environments

Ability to operate in discovery / early-stage product definition, not just implementation

Experience designing scalable data architectures for analytics or decision-support products

Strong communication skills, able to bridge technical and product discussions

Familiarity with data governance, mapping, and data quality challenges

Technical Skills

Strong proficiency in Python and SQL

Experience with cloud-based data platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure)

Understanding of data pipeline design, ETL/ELT patterns, and distributed systems

Experience with data modelling, schema design, and integration patterns

Exposure to modern data architectures (e.g. medallion, event-driven, or similar) is a plus

Originally posted on Himalayas