Head of AI & Data

Introduction

An exciting new opportunity exists for you to join a high growth mid-sized client in the Financial Services sector.

Due to ongoing growth and at a time of significant investment in capabilities across the enterprise, requirement has now arisen for someone to lead a newly created function, as Head of AI & Data. The role will operate across the enterprise at the 'Head Of' or 'GM; level, and report into the Group CTO.

The assignment & the opportunity

Rarely do you have the career defining opportunities arise that allow you to utilise your foundational years of experience, in a business that is energised & firmly in 'sunrise' mode. This point in time is a pivotal one for the organisation as they uplift capabilities to capitalise on strong business growth (organic & inorganic), profitability and market opportunity ahead.

They have recently invested time working with external industry advisors & experts to refine their IT strategy around AI & Data, and enhance their technology roadmap for the next phase of business growth.

Stepping into the role, you will inherit a small team at the outset, but have the mandate to plan for and build out a larger team of specialists across both the Data (data engineers & analysts), and also AI realms. This a hands-on leadership role, where your contribution as a thought leader (internally & externally) will be vital.

We are keen to speak with senior leaders who have evolved in their capabilities beyond technical paths, to incorporate management of commercial outcomes and assisting business leaders in lifting enterprise maturity and change capabilities.

Scope for the role is wide ranging, and will include designing, leading and championing the forward AI capabilities for the enterprise, whilst building out and uplifting the intertwined data capabilities of the firm.

Core capabilities & experience we are seeking

• Leadership. Strong progression as a leader of technology capabilities across long established areas such as data and digital platforms, but also recent related experience in adoption of AI. You will be able to cite strong examples of building, leading and developing cross-functional delivery teams.
• Industry knowledge. Strong preference for extensive financial services industry experience.
• Technical core skills. Sound technical knowledge across Microsoft & AWS environments (MS Fabric / Lakehouse).
• Personal attributes. Superior communication & interpersonal skills. Must have very strong EQ, and will be able to cite examples of influencing and coaching senior business stakeholders (ideally to Board level) and adapting style to different audiences.
• Commercial smarts. Extensive risk management and demonstrable commercial acumen; linkage of your work to visible business outcomes.

We are looking for a exceptional A-grade practitioners, so beyond this, you will bring first class references for the quality of your previous work.

Assignment details

• Permanent role
• Attractive remuneration package
• Sydney CBD offices (with WFH flex)