Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AI transformation projects and develop innovative automation strategies.
- Company: Join a global digital consultancy that values collaboration and personal growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25 days holiday, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Shape the future of AI while working with cutting-edge technology and diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in AI solutions and strong stakeholder engagement skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive culture that prioritises work-life balance and career development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Home-based with travel to client site or Columbus offices as required
Salary: Negotiable (We aim to improve your current package)
Bonus: Yes
Holiday: 25 Days, Plus Bank Holidays (Increasing with Service)
Medical Insurance: Yes (terms apply) plus additional Health Cashback Plan
Hours: Full time (36.5 hpw)
Travel/Expenses: A car is required for travel to client sites - expensed at 45p per mile from home address (excluding travel to any Columbus Office within 35mi)
THRIVE, GROW and SHAPE THE FUTURE
People always come first at Columbus. We’re a global digital consultancy with a local presence, helping businesses transform and thrive through technology, data, and human insight. Just as importantly, we’re a workplace where careers are nurtured, and development is supported through clear, structured career paths. Our culture is built on trust, collaboration, curiosity, and a shared commitment to delivering customer success.
Data & AI team
By joining our team, you will be part of a supportive network that values your voice, respects your ideas, and promotes a healthy work-life balance. Our average length of service in the UK is 8 years, as we are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture that celebrates and supports career growth and advancement in becoming a Trusted Advisor.
Diversity and Inclusion
We provide equal opportunities for everyone, ensuring a level playing field for all candidates. We actively encourage applications from all backgrounds to apply for positions across our organisation, and in return, we will give you the tools and support to Thrive with us, Grow your Skillsets, and be empowered to Shape the Future.
The role of Automation & AI Lead
We’re looking for an Automation & AI Lead to shape and grow our AI capability in the UK. You’ll work across sales, delivery and strategy, partnering with customers to design and implement AI solutions and helping position Columbus as a trusted Automation & AI consultancy in the UK.
- Define and lead the Automation & AI strategy and go-to-market approach
- Build and develop a diverse and growing AI team
- Act as a trusted advisor to customers, leading AI transformation programmes
- Support and lead sales and pre-sales activity
- Collaborate with Microsoft and global Columbus teams to deliver innovative solutions.
Travel and Hybrid Working
We have an environment that gives you the flexibility to achieve an effective work-life balance for you and your family, whether you want to work from home or at one of our Cubo offices around the UK. We continue to offer onsite consultancy time if requested, so flexibility around travel and overnight stays is expected, dependent on project requirements. On-site time is planned ahead of time, within 2-week blocks, so you know well in advance where you will be working. We encourage those in customer-facing roles to aim to come into the office at least once a month, and also team meetings and client meetings; however, you can work from Nottingham HQ or any Cubo office regularly if you prefer.
About You (The Essentials)
- Consultancy experience, ideally within a partner environment
- Experience across both AI/Data solution sales and delivery
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft AI technologies (Azure AI, Copilot, automation and modern data platforms)
- Experience engaging senior stakeholders and leading transformation initiatives
- Full driver’s licence and access to a vehicle
- Curious, looking to challenge the status quo and improve
- Collaborates well with both internal and external colleagues
- Committed to personal development and becoming a Trusted Advisor in your field.
What We Can Offer
You will be a part of both a local and global team, where you not only share knowledge but also a laugh or two. We value our employees and leave room for flexibility so that you can enjoy a work-life balance.
- 25 Days Annual Leave (Increasing with Service)
- Columbus Benefits Hub – Discounts on Tickets, Shopping, Car leasing, Holidays, Food and More
- Enhanced Maternity Pay
- Access to Free Training Courses Delivered by Columbus Academy
- Free Microsoft Certifications and access to Microsoft Learn
- Modern Airconditioned Office Spaces fully managed by Cubo (multiple UK locations)
- Free Barista Coffee and hot drinks made in-house
- Free Beer and Fizz every day (2 - 5pm)
- Casual Dress Code in our Offices
- Personal Pension Plan
- Life Assurance x4 Salary
- Cycle-to-Work Scheme
- ÂŁ2,500 payment for successful candidate referrals
- Flexi-phone upgrade scheme (if eligible)
- Plus many many more (check out our careers pages for details)
Employee Wellbeing Program (terms apply)
Free 24/7 Access to Cubo Gym(s)
Vitality Medical Insurance
Westfield Health Cash plan (includes an Employee Assistance Lines)
Mental health first aiders
Virtual suggestion boxes
Next Steps
If this sounds like the role for you, then please drop a copy of your CV over today via our website and “Apply for this job” or CV not up-to-date? then apply using your LinkedIn profile in seconds. You may also be prompted to "Connect with us", but please don’t worry if you don’t have the time; it does not impact your application. In the meantime, check us out on Instagram or LinkedIn.
STAY CURIOUS, COLLABORATE, BUILD TRUST, and DELIVER CUSTOMER SUCCESS.
Suitable for candidates
Suitable for candidates working with/as: Data & AI Lead, Head of AI/Automation, AI Practice Lead, Principal AI Consultant
Gold Partner and Inner Circle
As a Microsoft Gold Partner for over 20 years, Columbus has access to a range of market-leading resources, training and certifications. As well as a host of awards, Columbus has twice been named partner of the year by Microsoft. As Microsoft Inner Circle members, Columbus has been recognised as part of an elite category of partners. This honour is only awarded to the very best in the industry for thought leadership, innovation and dedication, with Inner Circle partners representing only the Top 1% of the Microsoft ecosystem. With over 1,500 colleagues across more than 10 countries, we bring global perspectives and local understanding. What unites us is our belief in creating meaningful impact — for our people, our customers, and the journey ahead.
Automation & AI Lead in Leeds employer: Columbus
Contact Detail:
Columbus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Automation & AI Lead in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry on LinkedIn, attend virtual meetups, or join relevant groups. The more connections you make, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or use online platforms. This will help you get comfortable with common questions and refine your answers, making you feel more confident when it’s time to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Automation & AI Lead in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Automation & AI Lead role. Highlight your consultancy experience and any relevant AI technologies you've worked with to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about AI and automation. Share specific examples of how you've led transformation initiatives or collaborated with teams to deliver innovative solutions.
Showcase Your Curiosity: We love candidates who are curious and eager to challenge the status quo. In your application, mention any projects or experiences where you’ve pushed boundaries or explored new ideas in AI.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply through our website. It’s quick and easy, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Columbus
✨Know Your AI Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Microsoft AI technologies, especially Azure AI and automation tools. Be ready to discuss how you've used these in past roles or projects, as this will show your expertise and readiness for the Automation & AI Lead position.
✨Showcase Your Consultancy Experience
Prepare examples from your previous consultancy roles where you've successfully led AI transformation initiatives. Highlight your ability to engage with senior stakeholders and how you've driven customer success through collaboration and innovative solutions.
✨Demonstrate Your Curiosity
Columbus values curiosity and challenging the status quo. Think of instances where you've questioned existing processes or proposed new ideas. This will resonate well with their culture and show that you're a good fit for their team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about Columbus's approach to AI and automation. Inquire about their current projects or future strategies. This not only shows your interest in the role but also demonstrates your proactive mindset and desire to contribute meaningfully.
