At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Data & AI strategy, driving innovation and transformation across Tech Operations.
- Company: Global innovation-driven organisation with a focus on AI and advanced analytics.
- Benefits: Remote work flexibility, enterprise-wide influence, and significant growth potential.
- Other info: Opportunity for international collaboration and to influence senior stakeholders globally.
- Why this job: Shape AI capabilities at scale and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in Data, Analytics, or AI strategies; strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 180000 £ per year.
We're partnering with a global, innovation-driven organisation seeking a Senior Director to lead Data & AI strategy across Tech Operations. This is a high-impact leadership role focused on scaling enterprise AI and advanced analytics capabilities within a highly regulated environment.
You will sit at the intersection of strategy, operations, and technology — driving AI adoption, shaping transformation initiatives, and ensuring data-driven decision making across manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and technical operations.
The Opportunity
This role will own and scale a TechOps-focused Data & AI Centre of Excellence, acting as the key business-facing leader responsible for:
- Defining and executing the TechOps Data & AI strategy and roadmap
- Prioritising high-value AI and analytics initiatives
- Driving adoption, capability uplift, and measurable business outcomes
- Governing responsible AI implementation in a regulated environment
- Partnering with enterprise technology and engineering teams to operationalise solutions at scale
This is an opportunity to build and shape AI capabilities at enterprise level while influencing senior stakeholders globally.
Key Responsibilities
Data & AI Strategy
- Lead the TechOps Data & AI vision and multi-year roadmap
- Shape and prioritise AI/analytics use cases across operations
- Own end-to-end delivery outcomes from experimentation through adoption
- Align initiatives with broader digital transformation objectives
Operating Model & Governance
- Lead a federated Data & AI operating model within Tech Operations
- Collaborate closely with enterprise engineering, platform, and security teams
- Ensure AI initiatives comply with governance, privacy, validation, and regulatory standards
- Champion responsible, ethical, and explainable AI practices
Innovation & Delivery
- Sponsor experimentation, pilots, and proof-of-concepts
- Drive successful transition of validated initiatives into production
- Ensure AI solutions integrate into operational workflows and decision-making processes
Adoption & Capability Building
- Develop AI literacy and capability programmes across TechOps
- Lead change management and adoption initiatives
- Measure business impact, usage, and realised value
Leadership
- Build and lead a high-performing Data & AI function
- Influence senior stakeholders and cross-functional leadership teams globally
- Translate complex AI and analytics concepts into business value
What We're Looking For
Required Experience
- Proven leadership experience delivering enterprise-scale Data, Analytics, or AI strategies
- Strong understanding of AI/ML and advanced analytics in operational or industrial environments
- Experience operating within federated or hub-and-spoke organisational models
- Excellent stakeholder management and executive communication skills
- Strategic mindset combined with strong operational execution
Preferred Background
- Experience within pharmaceutical, biotech, manufacturing, or other regulated industries
- Familiarity with MLOps, AI product operating models, and advanced analytics platforms
- Advanced degree in Data Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Statistics, or similar
- Track record of driving AI adoption and organisational capability building
Why Apply?
- Enterprise-wide influence and visibility
- Opportunity to shape AI transformation at scale
- Remote flexibility with international collaboration
- Strategic leadership role with significant growth potential
If you'd like to learn more, please get in touch for a confidential discussion.
Senior Director – Data & AI, Tech Operations in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: BioTalent
Join a global, innovation-driven organisation that prioritises employee growth and collaboration in a remote work environment. As a Senior Director in Data & AI, you'll have the opportunity to shape transformative AI strategies while enjoying a culture that values ethical practices and continuous learning. With significant influence across international teams, this role offers a unique chance to drive impactful change and advance your career in a highly regulated industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Director – Data & AI, Tech Operations in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. The more people know you’re looking for a Senior Director role, the better your chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s Data & AI initiatives. Understand their challenges and think about how you can contribute to their TechOps strategy. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss examples of how you've driven AI adoption and influenced stakeholders in previous roles. Highlighting your strategic mindset will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it makes it easier for us to connect with you!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Director – Data & AI, Tech Operations in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Senior Director role. Highlight your leadership in Data & AI strategies and any relevant achievements in operational environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for AI adoption and how you plan to drive transformation initiatives within Tech Operations.
Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills:In your application, emphasise your experience in managing senior stakeholders. We want to see how you've influenced decision-making and driven change in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at BioTalent
✨Know Your AI and Data Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and technologies in AI and data analytics. Brush up on your knowledge of MLOps and advanced analytics platforms, as these will be crucial in demonstrating your expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience in delivering enterprise-scale Data and AI strategies. Be ready to discuss how you've influenced senior stakeholders and led cross-functional teams to achieve measurable business outcomes.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Since this role involves working in a highly regulated environment, it’s essential to understand the compliance and governance aspects of AI implementation. Familiarise yourself with relevant regulations and be prepared to discuss how you’ve navigated these in past roles.
✨Align with the Company’s Vision
Research the company’s mission and values, especially regarding their approach to AI and digital transformation. Be ready to articulate how your vision for Data & AI aligns with theirs, and how you can contribute to their strategic objectives.
