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 (url removed).

Services Advertised are those of an Employment Agency.