David
Morgan-Gumm
Tech Leader | Data & AI Innovator
Hey! I'm passionate about turning messy data into something useful. I spend my days leading an awesome team of engineers, building platforms that thousands of people rely on. When I'm not buried in Azure configs, you'll find me running the sql_squared community or probably debugging a personal project late at night (we've all been there, right?).
About Me
Hello! I'm David Morgan-Gumm, a passionate and results-oriented Data Platform Manager at Oliver James with over 6 years of experience in data engineering, analytics, and technical leadership. I have a proven track record of designing, developing, and deploying innovative data solutions that drive business value.
My journey in tech has been driven by an insatiable curiosity for solving complex problems and a desire to build scalable, robust systems that make a tangible impact. I thrive in collaborative environments where I can combine strategic thinking with hands-on technical expertise to tackle ambitious challenges.
Beyond my professional work, I'm deeply committed to the data community. I founded and lead sql_squared, a vibrant community platform featuring podcasts, blogs, and events.
When I'm not architecting data platforms or leading my team, you can find me exploring the latest trends in AI/ML, contributing to the tech community, or working on personal projects that push the boundaries of what's possible with data.
Data Platform Architecture (Azure)
Designing scalable and resilient cloud solutions in Azure (Synapse, ADF, Databricks).
Database Management & Modelling
Expertise in SQL, Data Modelling, and database performance optimisation.
Team Leadership & Mentoring
Mentoring and leading agile data teams, fostering a culture of learning and growth.
Analytical Development
Analytical reporting on modern platforms (Power BI, Tableau).
Stakeholder Management
Effectively managing expectations and communication with diverse stakeholders.
Agile Project Management
Delivering data projects on time and within budget using Agile methodologies.
AI & Machine Learning
Implementing AI solutions and ML pipelines using Azure AI services and Python.
DevOps & CI/CD
Establishing robust DevOps practices and automated deployment pipelines.
My Journey
Oliver James
Leading the Data Engineering & Software functions across the global organization. Responsible for data platform strategy, architecture, development lifecycle, and cross-functional collaboration to enhance data capabilities. Managing a team of 6+ engineers and delivering enterprise-scale data solutions serving 1500+ users globally.
Key Achievements:
- Architected and delivered a global Azure data platform serving 12+ countries
- Reduced data processing time through optimization initiatives
- Led digital transformation initiatives resulting in major annual cost savings
Oliver James
Led a team of data engineers in designing and implementing scalable data pipelines and analytics solutions. Championed best practices in data engineering, implemented DevOps methodologies, and contributed to significant platform enhancements that improved data accessibility and reliability.
Key Achievements:
- Successfully migrated legacy systems to modern Azure architecture
- Implemented automated testing and CI/CD pipelines reducing deployment time
- Mentored junior engineers leading to many promotions within the team
Oliver James
Developed and maintained ETL/ELT processes, built dimensional data models, and supported BI initiatives. Key contributor to migrating legacy systems to a modern Azure-based data platform, focusing on performance optimization and data quality improvements.
Key Achievements:
- Designed star schema data models supporting business-critical reporting
- Improved data quality through implementation of validation frameworks
Oliver James
Focused on SQL development, database administration, and creating reports to support business decisions. Gained foundational experience in data warehousing, BI development, and collaborated with business stakeholders to understand requirements.
Key Achievements:
- Developed business intelligence reports and dashboards
- Automated manual processes saving many hours per week
Evolution Recruitment
Developed SQL solutions and performed comprehensive software testing for transformational projects. Gained experience in quality assurance, database development, and working with complex business requirements in fast-paced environments.
Key Achievements:
- Created complex SQL queries and stored procedures for data extraction
- Delivered creative testing strategies and test cases adopted by the development team
- Identified and resolved critical software defects within our CRM
Education & Qualifications
Computer Science (BSc) 2:1 Hons
University of Liverpool
2018
Specialized in Software Engineering and Data Structures
Management & Leadership (Level 5)
Chartered Managers Institute
In Progress
Advanced leadership and strategic management
Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Microsoft
2019
Cloud computing and Azure services fundamentals
Tech Leadership & Vision
As a Data Platform Manager leading 6+ engineers, I focus on empowering people, driving innovation, and delivering enterprise-scale solutions. My approach combines strategic vision with hands-on technical expertise to tackle complex challenges and achieve ambitious goals that create lasting business value.
Built and led high-performing engineering teams of 6+ professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and psychological safety. Successfully mentored junior engineers, resulting in promotions and significant career growth across the team.
Defined and executed comprehensive technical roadmaps aligned with business objectives across 12+ countries. Championed adoption of modern cloud technologies and architectural patterns, resulting in 60% performance improvements and £2M+ annual cost savings.
Successfully delivered many complex data platform projects on time and within budget by implementing agile methodologies, improving development processes by 80%, and ensuring effective stakeholder communication across global teams.
Led digital transformation initiatives solving critical business challenges through technological innovation. Drove research, prototyping, and implementation of cutting-edge solutions including AI/ML pipelines, real-time analytics, and automated data quality frameworks.
My Projects
Technology Stack:
Key Achievements:
- Performance improvement
- £100k+ annual cost savings
- 1500+ global users
Technology Stack:
Key Achievements:
- Real-time data processing
- Predictive job market insights
- Global trend analysis
Technology Stack:
Key Achievements:
- Multi-platform integration
- Real-time call analytics
- Global reporting capabilities
Technology Stack:
Key Achievements:
- 99.9% data accuracy
- Automated reconciliation
- Enterprise-scale integration
Technology Stack:
Key Achievements:
- Self-service analytics
- Data governance framework
- Real-time sales insights
Technology Stack:
Key Achievements:
- 90% risk reduction
- 80% faster deployments
- Automated testing framework
Community Involvement
I believe in the power of community and actively participate in various tech platforms and groups to learn, share, and collaborate.
Read my articles and tutorials on software development and tech leadership.
All fields are required. I'll respond to your message as soon as possible.