Head of Data and AI

About us

At National Grid, we keep people connected and society moving. But it’s so much more than that. National Grid supplies us with the environment to make it happen. As we generate momentum in the energy transition for all, we don’t plan on leaving any of our customers in the dark. So, join us as a Head of Data & AI and find your superpower. 

National Grid is hiring a Head of Data & AI - This position can be based from our Warwick or London office. Hybrid Working model.

Job Purpose

The Head of Data & AI plays a critical leadership role in shaping and executing the organisation's data and artificial intelligence (AI) strategy within the Business Unit IT and Digital function. This role is responsible for ensuring that data is effectively managed, governed, and leveraged, while driving AI innovation to enhance business performance, customer experience, and operational efficiency. 

As a strategic leader, the Head of Data & AI will establish a data-driven culture, integrating AI-powered insights and automation into business processes. They will oversee data governance, advanced analytics, and AI adoption, ensuring that ethical, secure, and regulatory-compliant AI solutions are implemented at scale. They will develop and define roadmaps and continual improvement of the organisation data and AI capabilities across the dimensions of people, process and technology.

The role requires close collaboration with IT, digital, and business teams to unlock value from data and AI, aligning with organisational goals and digital transformation initiatives. By leading a matrixed high-performing team of data engineers, AI specialists, and data scientists, the Head of Data & AI ensures that the organisation stays at the forefront of emerging technologies, innovation, and secure, responsible and ethical AI development.

What you'll do

• Develop and implement plans, policies, and practices for effective data management and governance.
• Create and maintain strategic plans to align business objectives with actions and resources.
• Promote ethical practices in the design and use of AI and data technologies.
• Manage risks related to data use, storage, and transmission to ensure information assurance.
• Ensure compliance with data management legislation and information governance.
• Develop data models and diagrams to communicate and manage data requirements.
• Enable data-driven decision-making through data analytics and insights extraction.
• Apply statistical and predictive modelling techniques to generate value from data.
• Design and operationalise data pipelines and systems for reliable data management.
• Define frameworks for decision-making, risk management, and compliance.
• Manage stakeholder relationships to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Enhance organisational performance through effective performance management.
• Support employee engagement and wellbeing to improve the employee experience.
• Facilitate teamwork across organisational boundaries and professional specialisms.
• Strategically plan workforce needs and manage resource acquisition and onboarding.
• Develop and manage financial budgets and forecasts for effective resource allocation.

About you

• Extensive experience in a senior leadership role in Data and/or AI.
• Proven ability to operate at ‘C’ and Board level, fostering strong relationships across the organisation.
• Skilled in translating technical concepts into business language to gain understanding and support.
• Strong understanding of current and emerging technology best practices and trends.
• Experience in navigating heavily matrixed organisations to drive results.
• Knowledgeable in governance, risk, compliance, and controls related to Data and AI.
• Demonstrated ability to influence strategy and execute business plans effectively.
• Capable of making high-level decisions that align with organisational objectives.
• Proficient in initiating and influencing strategic objectives and assigning responsibilities.
• Strong collaborator, engaging leadership stakeholders to ensure alignment with corporate vision.
• Anticipates and addresses problems and opportunities impacting organisational objectives.
• Drives improvement initiatives that align with organisational goals and engage stakeholders.
• Communicates effectively at all levels, explaining complex information clearly.
• Provides leadership in policy and strategy development, managing organisational risk.
• Promotes digital capabilities and identifies opportunities for new technologies and services.
• Advocates for a culture of security, privacy, and ethics, ensuring equal access and opportunity.

What you'll get

A competitive salary – dependent on capability.

As well as your base salary, you will receive a company car or allowance, a bonus of up to 40% of your salary for stretch performance, and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. You will also have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, a salary sacrifice technology scheme, support via the employee assistance line, and matched charity giving to name a few.

More Information

The closing date for this vacancy is 19th June. However, we encourage candidates to submit their applications as early as possible and not to wait until the published closing date. National Grid’s recruitment periods can and may vary. We reserve the right to remove this advert or close it to further applications at any point during the recruitment process.

DE & I statement:

At National Grid, we work towards the highest standards in everything we do, including how we support, value, and develop our people. Our aim is to encourage and support employees to thrive and be the best they can be. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds, offering flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office.

Our goal is to drive, develop, and operate our business in a way that results in a more inclusive culture. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, the innovation from diverse teams & perspectives, and business need. We are committed to building a workforce that can represent the communities we serve and have a working environment in which each individual feels valued, respected, fairly treated, and able to reach their full potential.

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