Head of AI Automation & Application Strategy

AI, Automation and Application Strategy Programme Director
18-Month Fixed Term Contract | Full-Time | London


Are you ready to shape the digital future of a leading organisation?


We are seeking a Programme Director for AI, Automation and Application Strategy to join the senior IT leadership team. This is a pivotal role driving the strategic development and operational delivery of AI-driven automation, enterprise applications, and digital transformation at scale.


This is an exceptional opportunity for a visionary leader to deliver real impact-embedding AI into business processes, optimising enterprise systems, and ensuring technology investments deliver measurable value.


The Role. As Programme Director, you will:

Lead AI strategy - create and deliver a 5-year roadmap, champion AI-first principles, and oversee centres of excellence and innovation hubs.
Drive automation and application transformation - optimise enterprise systems, promote low/no-code solutions, and lead adoption across HR, Finance, Library Services, Research and more.
Shape data and governance - develop data strategies, oversee Azure-based platforms, and ensure interoperability between applications and AI platforms.
Deliver integrations at scale - design event-driven architecture, lead adoption of Dell Boomi, and ensure seamless, secure data flow across enterprise systems.
Provide leadership - direct high-performing teams, manage significant budgets, and influence stakeholders at all levels to ensure technology enables growth and service excellence.
Create and manage successful partnerships to assist in the delivery of the programme.
About You. We're looking for a senior leader who can bring together people, process, and technology to deliver transformation. As an open organisation they seek collaborative people who have honesty, integrity and a sense of humour! You will have:

Significant leadership experience in enterprise applications, digital transformation, and AI/automation adoption.
At a senior programme manager/director level you will have a track record of leading large-scale, complex IT change programmes and delivering measurable outcomes.
Expertise in enterprise system architecture, integration, and security frameworks.
Strong understanding of data strategy, governance, and interoperability, ideally with Azure platforms.
Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, able to influence senior decision-makers across technical and non-technical domains at all levels
You can see the strategic big picture but have an entrepreneurial mindset and approach to ensure delivery
Experience applying ITIL, ISO 27001 or similar frameworks to ensure service quality and compliance.
Relevant postgraduate qualifications, certifications in project/programme management, enterprise architecture, or AI/automation frameworks will be advantageous.
What's on Offer? This role comes with an attractive package, including:

Salary c. £120,000 pa.
Generous pension scheme.
30 days' annual leave (plus bank holidays).
Flexible hybrid working arrangements.
Personal and professional development opportunities
Inclusive employment policies that support diversity and work-life balance.
Duration/Type: 18 month Full-Time, Fixed Term Contract.
Why Apply? This role offers the chance to:

Transform and Organisation and work with a "go ahead" non-hierarchal organisation that has drive a purpose and that contributes to society whilst providing you with a challenge. The CGO, COO CFO and CTO are all behind this programme and will provide full support to you in your work.
Shape and deliver cutting-edge AI and automation strategy at an organisational level.
Lead innovation and transformation hubs that directly support staff, customers, and communities for this truly class leading inclusive organisation.
Be part of a senior leadership team driving digital change, efficiency, and growth.
This is a high-profile opportunity for an ambitious leader who wants to be at the forefront of AI, automation, and application strategy in a complex, fast-evolving environment.
To be a part of this exciting, inclusive organisation and take on this challenge please send your CV and a supporting statement as to why you are interested to Simon Dunscombe .


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