Head of AI Automation & Application Strategy

London, England, United Kingdom | 18-Month Fixed Term Contract | Full-Time

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.

Overview

The Role

• 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 / Qualifications

• Significant leadership experience in enterprise applications, digital transformation, and AI/automation adoption.
• Track record of leading large-scale, complex IT change programmes at senior programme manager/director level with 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.
• Strategic thinker with an entrepreneurial mindset 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 are advantageous.

What’s on Offer

• Salary circa £120,000 per annum.
• 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

• Transform an organisation and contribute to society while tackling a challenging, purpose-driven programme supported by the CGO, COO, CFO and CTO.
• 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.
• Be part of a senior leadership team driving digital change, efficiency, and growth.
• High-profile opportunity for an ambitious leader at the forefront of AI, automation, and application strategy in a fast-evolving environment.

How to Apply

To be 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 at sdunscombe@itecopeople.co.uk.

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