At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow the Data & AI function while mentoring a talented team.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking consultancy focused on AI innovation.
- Benefits: 28 days leave, enhanced maternity leave, and a ÂŁ1,500 learning budget.
- Why this job: Shape the future of AI services and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in AI, strong client engagement skills, and technical expertise.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working with opportunities for continuous learning and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 ÂŁ per year.
NearTech is supporting a consultancy client in their next phase of targeted growth and development as they look to scale their AI services function and bring in a Head of Data & AI. It’s an extremely rewarding position, giving you an opportunity to not just take ownership and build out a business function, but to consolidate and grow a team under you, build capability and lead in AI and innovation preparedness within the firm.
You’ll inherit a small, established team of 3 Data and AI engineers with a clear mandate to grow and mature the function as client demand increases from their existing portfolio. This is a leadership role, not a pure hands‑on position, but you’ll remain close to the tools and delivery. You’re expected to advise on architecture and approach, check solution feasibility, and support complex client work. To start off with, the role will likely be 50/50 hands‑on vs hands‑off, drifting a little more to the hands‑off side of things as the team matures. If you’re looking for a fully hands‑off role, this role wouldn’t be suitable for you.
Key responsibilities- Own and lead the Data & AI function
- Line manage, mentor, and grow the existing team, with responsibility for future hiring
- Assess and define technical standards, delivery frameworks, and best practice across Data & AI
- Advise on solution architecture and approaches
- Support complex or high‑impact client engagements
- Ensure solutions are scalable, secure, and production‑ready
- Work with the senior leadership team to ensure solutions are aligned with business aims and support long‑term objectives
- Proven experience leading and growing teams in a delivery‑focused environment
- Strong background across AI (Data and ML)
- Practical experience with Generative AI and LLM‑based solutions, including real‑world use cases
- AWS or Azure are essential for this role
- Comfortable in a client‑facing setting, engaging with stakeholders and shaping solutions
- Still technically relevant, i.e. close enough technically to advise meaningfully, without needing to be hands‑on full time
28 days annual leave + bank holidays
Enhanced maternity leave
ÂŁ1,500 L&D budget per person per year
Regular opportunities for continued learning / upskilling (conferences / workshops / courses etc.)
Flexible hybrid working (2–3 days per week — please note the team has two set days, Monday and Wednesday, with a floating additional day in the office)
Head of Artificial Intelligence employer: NearTech Search
Contact Detail:
NearTech Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Artificial Intelligence
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the AI field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A personal recommendation can go a long way in landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Attend industry events or webinars related to AI and data. Not only will you learn, but you'll also meet potential employers and make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to companies you admire. Express your interest in their AI initiatives and how you can contribute to their growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic roles waiting for you, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Artificial Intelligence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Data & AI. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant projects in AI and data that showcase your ability to grow teams and deliver results.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your experience with Generative AI and how you’ve successfully led teams in the past.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Even though this is a leadership role, we want to see that you’re still technically savvy. Include specific examples of your work with AWS or Azure and how you've advised on solution architecture in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at NearTech Search
✨Know Your AI Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and technologies in AI, especially around Generative AI and LLM-based solutions. Be ready to discuss real-world use cases and how they can be applied in a consultancy setting.
✨Show Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, prepare examples of how you've successfully managed and grown teams in the past. Highlight your mentoring style and how you’ve fostered a collaborative environment.
✨Understand Client Needs
Get familiar with the consultancy's client base and their specific needs. Be prepared to discuss how you would engage with stakeholders and shape solutions that align with their business objectives.
✨Be Hands-On, But Not Too Hands-On
While the role is more hands-off, it’s important to demonstrate that you still have a solid technical foundation. Be ready to talk about how you can advise on architecture and solution feasibility without being involved in day-to-day tasks.