Hi, I'm David Varela
I’m a Technology Lead at Merlin Entertainments, shaping the technology vision behind 140+ global attraction and accommodation websites. I help lead the evolution of our booking platforms and Single Web Platform (SWP), ensuring they are scalable, high-performing, and commercially impactful.
With a background in frontend engineering, ecommerce architecture, and digital platforms, I work across strategy and delivery leading teams, setting engineering standards, and aligning technology with business goals. I’m passionate about building platforms that scale, empowering engineers, and creating seamless digital guest experiences.
Work Experience
A snapshot of my career journey and projects.
Technology Lead
Merlin Entertainments
2025 — Present
Leading technology strategy and engineering standards across 140+ global attraction & accommodation sites.
- ✅ Owns booking platforms and our Single Web Platform (SWP) for scalable, consistent delivery.
- ✅ Sets FE/BE standards, code quality, CI/CD and observability practices.
- ✅ Partners with product & SEO to drive KPIs through experimentation and performance improvements.
- ✅ Mentors engineers and leads cross-functional squads to ship measurable outcomes.
Lead Frontend Engineer
Dr. Martens
2023 - 2025
Progressed from Senior to Lead Frontend Engineer, driving technical innovation and team growth.
- ✅ Mentored junior developers, boosting team efficiency.
- ✅ Led key projects: global header revamp, rebrand, React migration.
- ✅ Improved Core Web Vitals & accessibility.
- 🚀 Managed & upskilled frontend team, fostering innovation.
- 🚀 Led the Frontend Guild, Dev Days, and process improvements.
- 🚀 Spearheaded full website revamp, React transition, and team growth.
Skills
A fun mix of technical & leadership skills.