AI Presales Architect for Data & Analytics

Simpson Associates transforms raw data into actionable insights that drive positive change. Our Microsoft data expertise, our specialist sector knowledge, plus our innovative and trusted advice and guidance are just some of the reasons clients choose to work with us. Our mission is to help purpose-led organisations from within the public and private sectors to harness data as a lever for change and enable them to realise business value more quickly. We provide the full range of services to support organisations on their data transformation journey. From advisory support and data strategy, to developing Data & AI solutions, right through to providing a range of managed services.

We are a Microsoft Solutions Partner, holding Specialisations in AI Platform on Microsoft Azure, Build AI Apps on Microsoft Azure, Analytics on Microsoft Azure, Data Warehouse Migration to Microsoft Azure and Migrate Enterprise Applications to Microsoft Azure, as well as holding Solutions Partner designations in Data & AI (Azure); Digital & App Innovation (Azure); Infrastructure (Azure) and Security. We are proud to be recognised as the winner of the 2024 Microsoft Community Response Partner of the Year award, reflecting our dedication to using technology for positive change. We are also a Databricks partner, and an IBM Gold Partner, specialising in Cognos Analytics and Planning Analytics. With offices in York and Sheffield, and a team based throughout the UK – we champion creativity, innovation and collaboration in the workplace.

The Role

As a Presales AI Specialist, you will be the subject matter authority responsible for shaping and expanding Simpson Associates’ AI capability. Embedded within the Presales function but working closely across Sales, Delivery, Marketing, and Microsoft partner channels, you will drive AI-focused opportunities, contribute to strategic advisory work, and support the creation and evolution of our AI offerings.

Key Responsibilities

• Technical Proposals and Advisory: You will support the Sales function by leading and contributing to AI-focused presales activity, including RFP/RFI responses, discovery sessions, and client meetings. You will provide clear and credible guidance on AI strategy, solution design, governance considerations, and responsible AI practices, ensuring proposals and recommendations are commercially aligned and technically robust.
• Advisory Delivery and Governance Enablement: While part of the Presales organisation, you will also contribute to advisory-led delivery where specialist AI expertise is required. This includes conducting AI readiness assessments, defining AI use cases, supporting the design of AI operating models, and advising clients on responsible AI, model lifecycle management, and implementation pathways.
• Proactive Account Engagement and Opportunity Identification: You will work closely with Sales and Customer Success to proactively engage with existing accounts and identify whitespace opportunities where AI can add value.
• Development of AI Offerings: You will collaborate with the CTO, Sales, Marketing, and Delivery to refine and evolve our AI propositions, ensuring they reflect market demand, partner direction, and industry best practice.
• Knowledge Sharing and Training: You will stay informed on industry trends, AI frameworks, and developments in relevant technologies such as Azure OpenAI, Microsoft Fabric, and Databricks' AI/ML capabilities.
• Outreach, Promotion and Representation: As the AI lead within Simpson Associates, you will contribute to promotional and thought-leadership activities including webinars, events, blogs, and customer forums.

Skills and Attributes Required

• Consulting: You must demonstrate strong consultative skills with experience designing and advising on AI strategies, use cases, solution approaches, and operating models.
• Technical: You must have hands-on experience with at least one modern AI or machine-learning platform typically Azure OpenAI, Azure Machine Learning, Microsoft Fabric, or Databricks’ AI/ML tooling.
• Project Delivery: You must have experience contributing to the delivery of AI initiatives, including use-case definition, readiness assessments, solution design, and advisory around model governance or AI lifecycle processes.
• Presales & Commercial Acumen: You must demonstrate experience operating in a presales or customer-facing advisory capacity, with the ability to shape early-stage opportunities, support qualification, and contribute to compelling proposals.

Simpson Associates reserves the right to close the recruitment process at any time.