Head of Data & AI Governance

Northern Ireland Water Limited; Belfast; Hybrid; GBP 86,000 - GBP 105,000; Full time

Job summary

A large, well-established organisation is looking for a Head of Data & AI Governance to shape the data strategy and governance framework. This high-visibility role involves setting standards for data quality and AI compliance while driving innovative solutions. Ideal candidates will have a senior-level background in data governance and a strategic mindset. Enjoy flexible hybrid work and a competitive reward package in this influential position that promises to enhance data-driven decision-making across the enterprise.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid working

Senior-level reward package

Qualifications

• Experience in senior data governance or management roles.
• Hands-on exposure to governance platforms.
• Understanding of regulated environments.

Responsibilities

• Set direction for enterprise data and AI governance.
• Establish ownership and quality standards for data.
• Put in place policies and controls for innovation.

Skills

Senior data governance

Influencing at executive level

Data quality and stewardship

Strategic mindset

Education

Professional certification in data management or governance

Tools

Modern governance platforms

Job description

Head of Data & AI Governance | Dublin | Hybrid

We are working with a large, well-established organisation in Ireland that is undergoing a major shift towards advanced analytics and industrial-scale AI. The business is building out a central "AI Factory" capability, investing heavily in modern data platforms, automation, and decision intelligence.

To support this, they are appointing a senior leader to take ownership of how data is governed, trusted, and used across the enterprise.

This role will sit at the heart of the data and AI agenda, working closely with C suite and the rest of the senior leadership team. The focus is on creating the structures, standards and ways of working that allow analytics and AI to scale safely in a complex, regulated environment, while also unlocking real commercial and operational value from data.

What you will be responsible for:

• Setting the direction for enterprise data and AI governance
• Establishing clear ownership, accountability and quality standards for critical data assets
• Ensuring data used for analytics and AI is reliable, well-documented and fit for purpose
• Putting in place policies, controls and operating models that balance innovation with regulatory and privacy obligations
• Working with technology, analytics and business teams to embed governance into day-to-day delivery
• Building and leading a specialist governance function and developing future leaders

What will make you a strong fit:

• A background in senior data governance, data management or data strategy roles within large organisations
• Experience operating in regulated environments where risk, controls and data protection are critical
• Proven ability to influence at executive level and drive change across multiple business areas
• Deep understanding of data quality, lineage, stewardship and metadata concepts
• Hands-on exposure to modern governance platforms and tooling
• At least one recognised professional certification in data management or data governance (such as DAMA, DCAM, Collibra or similar)
• A strategic mindset with a genuine interest in enabling responsible, scalable AI

Why this is an attractive opportunity:

• A chance to shape how AI is rolled out across a large enterprise from the ground up
• Direct involvement in an organisation building a true "AI Factory" capability
• High visibility role with influence over strategy, investment and operating model
• Opportunity to create lasting impact on how data is trusted and used at scale
• Flexible hybrid working and a senior-level reward package

If you are a senior data leader who enjoys building strong foundations for analytics and AI, and you want to play a key role in shaping how a large organisation uses data at scale, I would love to have a confidential conversation.

Apply directly or reach out for an informal, off-the-record chat to explore whether this could be a good fit for your next move

How to Apply

To apply for this role, submit your CV via the application form provided. Alternatively, to speak in absolute confidence about this opportunity, please contact Jack Tyrrell via [e-mail]

Disclaimer

If you have a disability which means you require assistance at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us directly to discuss. We are committed to providing equality of opportunity to all.

Please note, we are receiving an exceptionally high number of applications at present and will be unable to shortlist candidates who are not meeting the specific requirements for this role. Due to the high volume of applications, we may be unable to provide individual feedback. We thank you in advance for your understanding.