At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex Data and AI programmes, ensuring smooth delivery and strategic outcomes.
- Company: Join M&S, a leader in retail innovation and technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, competitive holidays, bonuses, and extensive wellbeing support.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the Data and AI space while driving innovation.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in product delivery and strong interpersonal skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
As a Head of Data and AI Delivery you have overall accountability for the technical delivery and execution of product and programme solutions within the Data and AI team at M&S. You will lead highly visible and complex programmes of work and act as an equal partner with Data Technology, Data Product and senior business leaders to deliver value and define, execute and land strategic outcomes while ensuring delivery remains smooth and efficient. This role works in the team that delivers data and AI solutions to the business, aligned to strategic objectives, through our core data platform, BEAM.
Who you are
- Extensive experience and responsibility of product and programme delivery, combining business knowledge with technical expertise to drive innovation, foster relationships and promote an ‘own it and get it done’ attitude.
- Excellent financial and commercial acumen including experience managing large budgets.
- Awareness of emerging Data and AI industry trends and the ability to interface with senior stakeholders / peer groups to understand their applicability to M&S.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, proactive can do attitude and ability to set the standards for communicating effectively with both technical and non‑technical individuals including director level.
- Experience working in retail – ideal, not mandatory.
What you will do
- Drive, own and deliver highly complex and multi‑disciplinary Data and AI initiatives, collaborating with business stakeholders and D&T peers.
- End‑to‑End Program Delivery: Ensure the successful delivery of all technical data programs from initiation through to completion, managing timelines, budgets, resources and quality to meet or exceed expectations.
- Develop and foster trusted relationships with stakeholders across business areas, using deep and relevant technology and data and AI experience to simplify complex technology issues and ensure successful delivery of outcomes through innovation and thought leadership, in line with SLAs.
- Accountable for the data and AI budget and driving value for money in the smartest, most efficient way.
- Anticipate problems using specialist knowledge and put processes in place to improve capability and effectiveness.
Benefits
- After completing your probationary period, you’ll receive a 20% colleague discount across all M&S products and many third‑party brands for you and a member of your household.
- Competitive holiday entitlement with the potential to buy extra holiday days.
- Discretionary bonus schemes awarded based on how you achieve personal objectives and overall business performance.
- A generous Defined Contribution Pension Scheme and Life Assurance.
- A dedicated welcome to teams with tailored induction and a wide range of training programmes to develop your skills.
- Amazing perks and discounts via the M&S Choices portal to maximise your financial and personal wellbeing.
- Industry‑leading parental, adoption and neonatal policies, providing support and flexibility for your family.
- Access to a fantastic range of wellbeing support for all colleagues, including access to 24/7 Virtual GP and PAM Assist.
- A charity volunteer day to support a charity or cause you're passionate about through a dedicated day away from work.
Head of Technical Program Management employer: Marks & Spencer Plc
M&S is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation thrives and employees are empowered to drive complex Data and AI initiatives. With competitive benefits including a generous discount on products, extensive training programmes, and robust wellbeing support, M&S fosters a culture of growth and collaboration, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the retail sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Technical Program Management
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in delivering complex programmes. Share specific examples of how you've driven innovation and tackled challenges head-on.
✨Be Ready for the Interview
Prepare for those tricky interview questions by thinking about your past projects and how they align with the role. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making skills, especially around budget management and stakeholder engagement.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the M&S team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Technical Program Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in technical delivery and programme management. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Financial Acumen:Since managing budgets is key for this role, include specific examples of how you've successfully handled financial responsibilities in past projects. We love seeing numbers that demonstrate your impact!
Communicate Clearly:Your application should reflect your excellent interpersonal skills. Use clear and concise language to convey your ideas, making it easy for us to understand your thought process and how you can bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders.
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 directly and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marks & Spencer Plc
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in Data and AI. Understand how they apply to M&S specifically. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in how these technologies can drive value for the company.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led complex programmes in the past. Highlight your ability to manage budgets, timelines, and resources effectively. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Think about how you can demonstrate your interpersonal skills during the interview. Be ready to discuss how you've built trusted relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. This is crucial for a position that requires collaboration across various teams.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the company. Inquire about their current Data and AI initiatives or challenges they face. This shows your proactive attitude and genuine interest in contributing to their success.
