At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AI and data strategy to drive business growth and operational efficiency.
- Company: International tech-led organisation focused on digital transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonus, hybrid working, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Opportunity to inspire high-performing teams in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of AI in a high-impact leadership role.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in AI, data science, and stakeholder management.
The predicted salary is between 130000 - 190000 £ per year.
An established, international technology-led organisation is looking to appoint a senior AI and data leader as part of its continued investment in digital transformation, automation and data-driven decision-making. The business operates across multiple markets and is increasingly focused on using AI, machine learning and modern data platforms to improve productivity, enhance operational performance and support future growth. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity within a commercially focused environment where AI and data are becoming central to the organisation’s long-term strategy.
As Head of AI & Data Strategy, you will lead the organisation’s internal AI, data science and data engineering capabilities, working closely with senior business and technology stakeholders to turn AI and data initiatives into measurable commercial outcomes.
You will be responsible for:
- Defining and executing the AI and data strategy, aligned to business priorities including growth, customer retention, operational efficiency and productivity.
- Leading a multidisciplinary team across data science, machine learning engineering, data engineering, analytics and AI programme delivery.
- Building and prioritising a portfolio of high-impact AI and data initiatives across the business.
- Owning the end-to-end lifecycle of AI initiatives, from idea generation and business case development through to delivery, adoption and measurable impact.
- Driving internal AI adoption across the organisation, helping teams use AI tools and solutions to improve productivity, workflows and decision-making.
- Overseeing the development of scalable, reliable and high-quality data and AI platforms.
- Working across multiple business functions including commercial, operational and technology teams.
- Acting as the bridge between senior leadership and technical teams, translating complex AI and data topics into clear business language.
- Supporting best practice across data architecture, model development, deployment and lifecycle management.
- Helping create a data-driven and AI-enabled culture through upskilling, knowledge sharing and practical adoption initiatives.
- Reporting into senior commercial leadership and regularly collaborating with wider strategy and business leadership teams.
The successful candidate will be a senior AI/data leader with a strong balance of technical credibility, commercial awareness and stakeholder leadership. You will need:
- Proven experience leading AI, data science, machine learning, data engineering or data platform teams.
- A strong track record of delivering data and AI initiatives that have created clear business impact.
- Strong understanding of data platforms, analytics, machine learning and AI technologies.
- Experience operating in complex, matrixed organisations.
- The ability to define strategy while staying close enough to execution to challenge, guide and support technical teams.
- Strong commercial acumen, with the ability to link AI and data initiatives to business value.
- Excellent senior stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence commercial, operational and technology leaders.
- The ability to translate technical AI/data concepts into clear, practical business language.
- Experience leading cross-functional initiatives from ideation through to delivery and adoption.
- A pragmatic, delivery-focused mindset with a bias for action.
- Curiosity, innovation and the confidence to challenge the status quo.
- Experience building, developing and inspiring high-performing technical teams.
- A technical background across areas such as data science, AI, data platforms, pipelines, ML engineering or data architecture.
- Ideally, experience in financial services, payments, fintech, commercial operations, SaaS or another data-rich, innovative environment.
- AWS platform knowledge would be beneficial.
This is a senior leadership opportunity with significant visibility, influence and scope to shape how AI is adopted across a large international business. You will receive:
- Performance-related bonus and executive benefits package.
- Hybrid working pattern, expected to be around 3 days per week in the London office.
- 25 days’ annual leave plus public holidays.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
VP AI & Data Platforms in London employer: Hays
Join a vibrant secondary school that prioritises excellence in education and fosters a supportive community for both students and staff. As the Head of Mathematics, you will benefit from a competitive salary, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and growth. This role not only allows you to lead a dedicated team but also to make a significant impact on student achievement in a welcoming environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land VP AI & Data Platforms in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Hays. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace VP AI & Data Platforms in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Hays.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Hays's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Hays.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Hays will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Hays employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
