Head of Data Solutions

Join Sanoma Learning as a Data Solutions Leader!

Are you a passionate and experienced data leader ready to shape the future of education? Sanoma Learning is seeking a Data Solutions Leader to spearhead the development and maintenance of our internal analytics data platform. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are driven to empower data-driven decisions, we encourage you to apply!

About the Role

As our Data Solutions Leader, you’ll be the driving force behind our data platform, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of our business. Reporting to the Head of Data and AI in Operations, you’ll collaborate closely with the Head of Internal Analytics and various cross-functional teams, including product owners, project managers, TechOps, and analytics leaders across our operating companies. Your leadership will be instrumental in fostering a data-centric culture within Sanoma Learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Data Solutions team in developing a unified and scalable data platform.
• Manage diverse analytical needs, delivering flexible and compliant data solutions.
• Facilitate continuous development through effective scrum practices and priority management.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of a scalable and efficient data infrastructure (currently utilizing Snowflake).
• Collaborate across departments to ensure seamless integration and functionality of data solutions.
• Provide guidance and support to your team of data engineers to achieve project goals and deliver high-quality results.
• Support the Data Engineering Tech Lead in fostering the team’s data engineering expertise.
• Drive the execution of Sanoma Learning’s data-driven strategy, aligning it with business objectives.
• Manage data tools (e.g., Snowflake, DBT) and vendor relationships.
• Oversee data governance initiatives across Sanoma Learning.
• Contribute to the advancement of AI initiatives by developing supporting data structures.

What You’ll Bring to the Table

We’re looking for a leader with a strong technical foundation and a proven track record of success. Here’s what we hope you bring:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field (Computer Science, IT, Mathematics, Engineering, Business Administration).
• Advanced degree or MBA (a plus).
• 7+ years of relevant professional experience, including 3-5 years in a leadership role overseeing data teams, initiatives, or platforms.
• Proven experience in leading and delivering scalable and robust data platforms.
• Experience managing cross-functional teams.
• Familiarity with modern data engineering tools (DBT, Apache Airflow, ETL/ELT frameworks, SQL, Python).
• Experience with data governance frameworks and data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR).
• Background in agile project management.
• Experience managing vendor relationships related to data infrastructure.

Essential Skills for Success

To excel in this role, you’ll need a combination of technical expertise and leadership skills:

• Strong business and strategic mindset.
• Proven ability to lead and develop diverse teams.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Solid understanding of data architecture and data modeling principles.
• Familiarity with data visualization and BI tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Strategic and innovative thinking.

Your Personal Attributes

Beyond technical skills, we’re looking for someone who is:

• Data-driven in their decision-making.
• Proactive and possesses a “can-do” attitude.
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple tasks.
• Self-motivated and consistently seeking improvement.
• Passionate about the opportunities in Data and AI.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re ready to lead a talented team and contribute to the future of education through the power of data, we encourage you to apply! Click the ‘Apply’ button to learn more and submit your application. We look forward to hearing from you!