Head of Data & AI – London (Contract)

About the role

The Head of Data & AI will lead the data and artificial intelligence function for a well‑established retail business in London. Reporting to senior leadership, you will shape strategy, build capability and deliver measurable impact across the organisation.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute the organisation's data and AI strategy.
• Lead cross‑functional teams covering data engineering, analytics, data science and AI.
• Establish governance frameworks, operating models and best practices.
• Drive delivery of AI, machine learning and advanced analytics initiatives.
• Partner with executive stakeholders to identify and prioritise high‑value use cases.
• Build a scalable data capability that supports long‑term business objectives.

Required profile

• Strong leadership experience across data, analytics and AI functions.
• Proven track record delivering enterprise‑wide data transformation programmes.
• Experience implementing AI and machine learning solutions in a commercial environment.
• Excellent stakeholder management and ability to influence at executive level.
• Background in retail, e‑commerce or consumer‑focused organisations.

Required skills

• AI and machine learning implementation.
• Data engineering, analytics and data science.
• Knowledge of modern cloud data platforms, data architecture and governance frameworks.