Head Data and AI Strategy and Governance

Company Description

Syngenta Group, a global leader in agricultural technology and innovation, employs 60,000 people across more than 100 countries to transform agriculture through tailor-made solutions for farmers, society, and our planet. Our diverse portfolio encompasses seeds, crop protection, nutrition products, agronomic solutions, and digital services, all designed to help farmers produce healthy food, feed, fiber, and fuel while conserving natural resources and protecting the environment. Our mission is to address critical challenges such as climate change and food security through sustainable practices and cutting-edge solutions, while safeguarding the planet's resources. 

Jealott's Hill International Research Centre is situated in pleasant semi-rural surroundings between Bracknell and Maidenhead and is the place of work for approximately 800 Syngenta scientists and support staff. Jealott’s Hill is one of the main global research and development sites and key activities include research into discovery of new active ingredients, new formulation technologies, product safety, technical support of our product range and seeds research.

Job Description

We're seeking a Head of Data Strategy to drive our data strategy and governance framework, empowering teams to independently create value while ensuring alignment with business goals and regulatory compliance.

Accountabilities

Data Governance and Policy

• Mature and continuously evolve Syngenta’s data governance framework, including data management, quality, privacy, and security considerations.
• Enroll, enable and empower teams to realize value independently, while contributing to the larger data ecosystem and adhering to responsible and ethical data and AI practices.
• Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to ensure adherence to global regulations.

Data Strategy Implementation

• Support business leaders across the organization to establish AI-ready data leadership and management roles and responsibilities in a federated setup.
• Implement metrics to measure adoption and compliance and business impact of the data and AI strategy, and to inform its evolution.
• Collaborate with business units and IT to ensure alignment and adoption of data practices.

Change leadership

• Create visibility and awareness for data strategy and governance, inspiring the adoption and change journey for Syngenta employees.
• Contribute to Syngenta’s data and AI brand by representing our journey externally.
• With only a small team attached directly to this role, collaborate closely with the federated data and AI capacity across the company.

Qualifications

• At least 8 years of experience in senior data management or strategy roles
• Proven experience in developing and implementing enterprise-wide data strategies, preferably in life science industries.
• Strategic thinker and practitioner with a deep understanding of data management principles and the human factors driving their application.
• Strong background in data governance, including policy development and implementation.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate complex organizational structures and drive change in federated environments.
• Deep understanding of data ethics, privacy regulations, and industry best practices.
• Experience in balancing centralized governance with decentralized execution in data management.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence C-level executives and cross-functional teams. People focus leadership.
• Advanced degree in Information Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Visionary mindset with the ability to anticipate future data needs and trends.
• Experience or a keen interest in the agricultural sector.

Additional Information

• Extensive benefits package including a generous pension scheme, bonus scheme, private medical & life insurance.
• Remote working is possible if you can commute to Bracknell or Manchester at least three times per month.
• Flexible working arrangements. 
• Up to 31.5 days annual holiday.
• We offer a position which contributes to valuable and impactful work in a stimulating and international environment.  
• Learning culture (Together we Grow) and wide range of training options.

Equal Opportunity
Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Additional information