At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives to enhance data and AI skills across the UK workforce.
- Company: Join the National Innovation Centre for Data, hosted by Newcastle University.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to innovation and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of data skills and AI in the UK.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience with proven leadership in data and AI skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are looking for a talented individual to join our team at the UK's National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) as Director of Policy and Skills, where you will play a strategic role in developing the Centre's activities. As Professor / Professor of Practice, you will bring real-world expertise and your professional network to further develop our offer to students.
The National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) is hosted by Newcastle University and bridges the data skills gap by transferring practical data science and AI expertise directly into the UK workforce through collaborative projects. To date, it has delivered over 170 successful projects with organisations of all sizes, across a wide range of sectors, delivering measurable impact to the regional economy. It also contributes to teaching at Newcastle University by offering experiential learning programmes to students based on these real-world projects.
This is an excellent opportunity to join the UK's National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) as a member of the leadership team. You will play a strategic role in developing the Centre's policy and skills activities to improve productivity through data and AI by transferring ‘in demand' data science and AI skills into UK organisations. You will also lead on exploiting NICD's expertise to develop Newcastle University's skills offer to students.
You will develop close links to national and regional AI skills policy makers so as to influence national and regional government policy. In this role you will enable them to develop more effective policy by exploiting NICD's track record in delivering impactful skills programmes to industry. You will lead bids to secure investment in programmes that deliver against AI Skills policies. Where investment is secured, you will design programmes and manage their delivery by the NICD team. A key aspect of delivery will be the integration of rigorous, pedagogically-sound programme evaluation to ensure continuous improvement and to influence future policy development.
You should be professionally qualified with a PhD or equivalent experience, along with significant relevant management and leadership experience in the area of data and/or AI skills. You will be able to show proven success in this area.
You will act as a visible role model and must have experience of fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect to develop teamworking and leadership skills across a team. You must be excited to challenge yourself and to continue to advance your own skill set as well as supporting the development of the team's skill set. Enthusiasm, empathy and a positive attitude are essential to the success of the role.
We are committed to building and maintaining a fair and inclusive working environment. This position is available immediately and is offered on a full-time basis. We would be happy to discuss arrangements for flexible and/or blended working. We appoint on merit and particularly welcome applications from groups that are currently underrepresented in Technical Professional Services.
For any specific questions relating to the job advert, please get in touch: Georgia Carr - georgia.carr@newcastle.ac.uk Barry Hodgson - barry.hodgson@newcastle.ac.uk
For more information about the National Innovation Centre for Data, please click the following link: National Innovation Centre for Data
Director of Policy & Skills, National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Newcastle University
The National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of data science and AI. Located at Newcastle University, NICD provides employees with unique opportunities for professional growth through impactful projects and partnerships with industry leaders, while promoting a culture of inclusivity and continuous learning. With a commitment to bridging the data skills gap, NICD empowers its team to make a meaningful difference in the UK workforce and economy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Policy & Skills, National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the data and AI sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of landing that Director role at NICD!
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Make sure to highlight your real-world experience and professional network during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've successfully developed skills programmes or influenced policy in the past. This will show NICD that you're the right fit for the job!
✨Be a Team Player
Demonstrate your ability to foster a culture of trust and collaboration. Talk about how you've built strong teams and supported their development. NICD is looking for someone who can lead and inspire, so make sure to convey your leadership style!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to apply directly through the NICD website! It shows your genuine interest in the role and gives you a better chance of being noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Policy & Skills, National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in data and AI skills. We want to see how your background aligns with the role at NICD, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Director, we’re looking for someone who can lead and inspire. Use your application to demonstrate your management experience and how you've fostered teamwork and trust in previous roles. This is your chance to shine!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. Remember, less is often more when it comes to written applications!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newcastle University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and developments in data science and AI. Brush up on NICD's past projects and their impact on the regional economy, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of their work.
✨Showcase Your Network
As a candidate for Director of Policy & Skills, your professional network is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how your connections can benefit NICD, especially in influencing national and regional AI skills policies.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect within teams. Share specific examples of how you've developed teamworking and leadership skills, as this aligns with the role’s expectations.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Evaluation Methods
Since programme evaluation is key to continuous improvement, come prepared to talk about your approach to integrating rigorous evaluation into programme design. This will show that you understand the importance of measuring success and influencing future policy development.
