Why join us?

• Shape and deliver our enterprise SQL roadmap across on-prem and Azure.
• Lead licensing optimisation, consolidation, HA/DR standards, and lifecycle upgrades.
• Work with modern Azure SQL-IaaS, Managed Instance, PaaS-with secure-by-design networking.
• Make a real impact on performance, cost, stability, and engineering discipline.

Responsibilities

• Own on-prem + Azure SQL platform engineering: configuration, standards, patching, monitoring, backup/restore, security.
• Drive consolidation and core-based licensing optimisation; reduce instance sprawl and improve cost efficiency.
• Manage SQL lifecycle upgrades, including in-place upgrades where appropriate.
• Design and operate HA/DR using Availability Groups, FCI, log shipping, and routine DR testing.
• Maintain accurate asset/instance tracking, baselines, telemetry, and runbooks.
• Deliver clear RCA and implement durable fixes.
• Support and improve SSIS/SSRS platforms from an operational perspective.
• Lead Azure SQL design-MI, IaaS, PaaS-including scaling, cost optimisation, private endpoints, subnet separation, and firewalls.

What will help you succeed in this role?

Essential

• 10+ years of strong experience as a production SQL Server DBA (infrastructure-focused, not developer-focused).
• Clear understanding of licensing, cores, consolidation vs. scale-up trade-offs.
• Hands-on with Availability Groups, performance troubleshooting, backup/restore, and DR testing.
• Excellent English with the ability to explain complex SQL concepts clearly (design, RCA, improvements).
• Solid Azure SQL knowledge across IaaS, MI, PaaS, including security and cost optimisation.
• Scripting (T-SQL, PowerShell) for automation.

Desirable

• Experience with SQL 2019 → 2022 → 2025 feature differences and upgrade strategy.
• SSIS/SSRS operational management.
• Exposure to storage/IO tuning, monitoring platforms, and infrastructure-level optimisation.
• Certifications in SQL or Azure.

What we offer

At DWF, we deeply appreciate the significance of offering a comprehensive rewards package that extends beyond a basic salary. Our commitment is to ensure that each member of our team not only feels valued but is also duly rewarded throughout their tenure with us. Upon joining our organisation, you will have the opportunity to select from a diverse array of benefits, allowing you to carefully tailor a package that perfectly aligns with your individual needs and those of your family. In addition to our standard benefits, we offer a wide range of flexible benefits and robust well-being programs.

Our recruitment process upholds the highest standards of fairness and engagement. It includes comprehensive interviews and, at times, a written assessment, an assessment day, or presentation. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support.

About us

DWF is a global legal business providing Complex, Managed and Connected Services. We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.