Head of Data & AI

First Global Management Services•New York City, NY

6h•$295,000 - $340,000•Hybrid

About The Position

FIRST is seeking a Head of Data & AI for a new business unit, designed to transform FIRST's operating model through AI and data capabilities. This strategic enterprise initiative addresses dual imperatives: enhancing productivity whilst creating differentiated client value through AI-powered brand experiences. This role represents a strategically important leadership position within FIRST, responsible for driving enterprise-wide AI adoption and commercialisation. This role reports directly to the FIRST CEO and leads this new, transformative business unit with P&L responsibility. The Head will be accountable for delivering on the ambitious Vision 2028, which aims to generate significant benefits through productivity improvements, efficiency gains, enhanced brand experiences, and new, differentiated products and services. This role will also serve as an advisor to the CEO and Executive Leadership on AI, data, and innovation strategy across all FIRST business lines.

Requirements

At least 15 years of experience
Proven track record of senior leadership in a data/AI-driven business transformation role.
Experience building and scaling a data and AI function.
Experience in commercialising AI-powered services and embedding them into client delivery models.
Strong commercial acumen with P&L management experience.
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex stakeholder relationships.
Experience in implementing AI solutions that deliver measurable business impact.
Strategic vision combined with practical implementation skills.
Strong understanding of data governance, AI ethics, and regulatory compliance.
Visionary leadership with the ability to inspire and drive change.
Strong stakeholder management and change leadership skills.
Commercial mindset with focus on driving measurable business outcomes.
Strategic thinking combined with execution excellence.
Data-driven decision-making approach.
Ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
Innovative problem-solver who can identify opportunities for AI application.
Strong communication skills
Collaborative team builder who can unite diverse functions toward common goals.

Nice To Haves

Master's Degree or Doctorate/ PHD preferred
Experience with AI-powered products and services in client-facing environments.
Background in establishing AI governance structures and managing associated risks.
Experience designing multi-vendor ecosystems and managing vendor risk and interoperability

Responsibilities

Lead delivery of the AI roadmap and achievement of Vision 2028 targets.
Oversee strategic prioritisation of AI investments and resource allocation.
Consult on strategic direction for the AI Taskforce, a cross-functional group focused on cultivating an AI- Native workforce
Own P&L, strategy, client relationships, and Board reporting.
Position FIRST as a market leader in AI-powered brand experiences and data-driven client partnerships.
Create defensible advantages through data and AI capabilities.
Work closely with the Learning and Development team to embed AI throughout the organisation.
Build and manage the new business unit’s team and lead the two core function areas: AI Solutions and Innovation, and Business Intelligence and Data Analytics.
Lead the integrated AI, data, and BI strategy in alignment with business priorities; identify and prioritize AI and BI use cases based on ROI and strategic impact
Drive cross-functional stakeholder management and change leadership.
Foster an innovative, collaborative culture that attracts and retains top talent in AI, data science and analytics.
Lead the commercialisation of new AI-powered products and services to achieve target client adoption rates.
Lead transformation to deliver event delivery productivity improvements.
Drive the transformation of FIRST's Shared Services operations to deliver productivity improvements.
Generate new revenue via intelligence-based products and AI-powered innovation in brand experiences.
Work closely with Communications and Learning and Development to drive change, communications and AI literacy programs across the organisation.
Collaborate with Marketing on the strategy for go-to-market product opportunities.
Act as an internal evangelist at FIRST for AI-enabled creativity and efficiency.
Lead the integrated AI, data, and BI strategy in alignment with business priorities.
Identify and prioritize AI and BI use cases based on ROI and strategic impact.
Ensure AI ethics, data governance, and regulatory compliance, and work with the appropriate body governing ethics.
Oversee compliance, data quality standards, and security protocols.
Develop incident response approaches with defined escalation protocols.
Own the Risk Register; ensure mitigation and report to the Steering Committee quarterly.

Benefits

Medical, Dental & Vision, which includes the option of a high deductible health plan (HDHP) with a health savings account (HSA)
401 (k)
Five Flexible Spending Accounts Options
Generous Paid Time Off Allowance
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Life, Disability & Pet Coverages
Wellness Stipend
Mobile Phone Allowance
Complimentary access to Headspace, Teladoc, Maven, Rocket Lawyer, Mobilo & more
Aura Identity Theft Protection
Discretionary Bonus Structure
Global Opportunities: With a presence in 7 countries worldwide, including headquarters in London, New York, and Singapore, you may have the opportunity to work on exciting projects across different locations.