Head of Data Engineering

As the Head of Data Engineering (Managing Director), you will set the vision and lead the execution of the firm's enterprise-wide data strategy, ensuring data is a competitive advantage. Reporting directly to the CTO, you will not only define strategy but also take a hands-on role in driving innovation, scalability, and operational excellence across a hybrid environment of on-premise and Azure cloud platforms. This position requires a strategic leader with deep expertise in asset management and modern data architecture, who is comfortable solving complex technical challenges directly.

You will lead and actively engage with a high-performing, geographically distributed team of employees and consultants, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Your mandate includes architecting, building, and optimizing data platforms leveraging Snowflake, Azure, and complementary technologies to enable advanced analytics, real-time insights, and secure data sharing.

As a key technology leader, you will partner closely with leaders in Portfolio Management, Investment Operations, Corporate Services, and Distribution to deliver data solutions that power critical business functions. You will also work hand-in-hand with the Head of Architecture and the Data Governance team to implement end-to-end strategies for data quality, compliance, and governance. This role requires a visionary who pairs strategic thinking with practical execution, ensuring the firm's data ecosystem is robust, future-ready, and aligned with business priorities.

Strategic Leadership & Vision
• Define and execute the firm's data strategy in alignment with business goals and technology vision.
• Act as a key partner to the CTO, Head of Architecture, and Data Governance team to shape the future of data engineering.
• Promote data-driven decision-making and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Data Platform & Architecture
  • Lead the design and delivery of scalable, secure, and reliable data platforms across on-premises and Azure environments.
  • Drive integration of Snowflake, Azure Data Factory, Synapse Analytics, Data Lake Storage, and related technologies.
  • Ensure timely, high-quality data solutions for portfolio management, Investment Operations, Corporate Services, and Distribution.
• Governance, Compliance & Quality
  • Implement governance, security, and compliance standards in partnership with the Data Governance team.
  • Maintain regulatory compliance and industry best practices.
  • Guarantee data accuracy and reliability for all consumers.
• Operational Excellence
  • Lead and develop a blended team of employees and consultants, ensuring accountability and growth.
  • Oversee data pipeline development, reconciliation, lineage, and access control.
  • Continuously optimize processes for efficiency, scalability, and reliability.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
  • Partner with technology and business leaders to deliver practical, scalable solutions.
  • Align end-to-end data strategies with enterprise architecture.
  • Communicate priorities, progress, and outcomes to senior leadership.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement
  • Identify and implement emerging technologies to advance data engineering capabilities.
  • Leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to increase productivity, automate processes, and unlock new business value.
  • Ensure data platforms and pipelines are designed to be AI-ready, supporting advanced analytics and machine learning initiatives.
  • Stay ahead of industry trends and champion best practices.

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Experience: 15+ years of progressive experience in data engineering, data architecture, or related technology leadership roles, with significant exposure to asset management.
• Cloud Expertise: Proven experience in migrating enterprise data platforms to the cloud, preferably Microsoft Azure, including hybrid/on-premise integration strategies.
• Technical Depth: Advanced knowledge of Snowflake, Azure services (Data Factory, Synapse Analytics, Data Lake), ETL/ELT tools, and complementary technologies for data engineering and analytics.
• Familiarity with leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning concepts to enhance data platforms, automate processes, or support advanced analytics is a plus.
• Experience designing or supporting data architectures that can enable AI and machine learning initiatives is desirable.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing, geographically distributed teams composed of both employees and consultants.
• Strategic & Hands-On: Strong strategic thinking combined with practical execution skills to deliver scalable, secure, and reliable data solutions.
• Governance & Compliance: Familiarity with data governance frameworks, regulatory compliance, and best practices for data quality and security.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence senior leadership and cross-functional teams.

• Cultivates strong, collaborative relationships by fostering open communication, active listening, and mutual respect.
• Leadership in identifying and delivering measurable business value through efficient execution, continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability.
• Conscientiousness, with a focus on quality and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Excellent interpersonal, coordination, and vendor management skills.

Estimated Compensation:

Base Salary: For CA & NY based positions, the base salary range is $275k - $400k . This represents base salary range only.

Other Compensation: In addition to the base salary, this position will be eligible to be considered for an annual discretionary bonus.

Benefits: Eligible for TCW's comprehensive benefits package. See more information here.

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