Head of AI

Reference: 4801215Job ID: 5396378Posted: 2026-05-29Closing date: 2026-08-28Location: ManchesterSalary: 130,000-180,000 (per annum)Job type: PermanentWorking pattern: Full timeIndustry: Technology & Internet Services / ConsultancyCompany: HaysConsultant: Ashley SharpHays office: Manchester — 4th Floor, City Tower, Piccadilly PlazaPhone: 01612286266Email: [email protected] client is seeking a strategic and experienced Head of AI to lead their artificial intelligence function and drive innovation across the organisation. This is a senior leadership role responsible for defining and executing AI strategy, delivering impactful solutions, and embedding AI capabilities into core business operations.The successful candidate will bring a blend of technical depth, leadership capability, and commercial acumen, with a proven track record of delivering AI initiatives that create measurable value.Key ResponsibilitiesDefine AI Strategy Develop and execute a clear AI roadmap aligned with the organisation’s broader business objectives.Lead AI Delivery Oversee the full life cycle of AI and machine learning solutions, from ideation through to deployment and scaling.Team Leadership & Development Lead, manage, and grow a high-performing AI team, driving a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.Stakeholder Engagement Partner with senior stakeholders to translate complex business challenges into effective, scalable AI solutions.Innovation & Emerging Technologies Identify and leverage advancements in AI, including generative AI, large language models, and automation.Governance & Ethics Ensure AI initiatives are delivered in line with best practices in ethics, compliance, and data governance.Commercial Impact Drive tangible business outcomes, including efficiency gains, revenue growth, and enhanced customer experience.Skills & ExperienceEssential: Proven experience leading and managing an AI or data science teamStrong expertise in AI, machine learning, and advanced analyticsDemonstrated experience delivering AI solutions within a commercial or enterprise environmentExperience developing and implementing AI strategies at a senior levelExcellent stakeholder management and communication skillsAbility to translate technical concepts into business valueExperience working with cloud platforms (e.g. Azure, AWS, GCP)DesirableExperience within, or in collaboration with, a Big 4 consultancy (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG)Background in a consulting or client-facing environmentExperience scaling AI capability within a growing or transforming organisationFamiliarity with AI governance, risk, and regulatory frameworksWhat Success Looks LikeA clearly defined and executed AI strategy aligned to business goalsSuccessful delivery of scalable, production-ready AI solutionsA high-performing, engaged AI teamMeasurable business impact driven through AI adoptionThe organisation is recognised as an innovator within its market. #4801215 - Ashley Sharp