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 potential Sector: 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