Director, AI & Research Digitalisation

VTT; Espoo; On-site; EUR 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

6 weeks of paid holidays

Access to cutting-edge research facilt

Job summary

VTT, a leading European research, development and innovation organisation, seeks a Head of Research Digitalisation & AI to lead its AI-enabled research transformation in Espoo. You will set strategy for AI-driven research, ensure access to platforms, computing, data storage and software, and build the AI Centre of Excellence across Research Areas.

You will lead a high-performing team, manage budgets and partnerships, and drive governance, security and responsible AI.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading digital or AI transformation.
• Deep understanding of digital research environments, including platforms, computing infrastructure, data storage and research software.
• Ability to translate diverse research needs into shared capabilities, priorities and scalable solutions.
• Proven ability to lead expert teams and manage complex portfolios, resources and partnerships.
• Strong understanding of responsible AI, governance, security and risk management.
• Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration.
• Relevant higher education degree; research experience considered an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Research Digitalisation and AI unit, including its people, capabilities, resources, budget and performance.
• Define and drive VTT’s direction and roadmap for research digitalisation and AI.
• Lead the development and adoption of shared digital research capabilities, including platforms, computing, data storage and research software.
• Lead the AI Centre of Excellence, enabling Research Areas to develop, adopt and scale high-impact AI solutions.
• Ensure appropriate governance, architecture and responsible and secure use of AI and digital technologies.
• Translate research needs and emerging technology opportunities into shared priorities, investments, and scalable solutions.
• Build strategic internal and external partnerships and contribute to the Digital Transformation leadership team and strategic planning.

Skills

Leadership

AI governance

Stakeholder management

Digital research

Portfolio management

AI platforms

Education

Higher education degree

Job description

VTT, a leading European research, development and innovation organisation, seeks a Head of Research Digitalisation & AI to lead its AI-enabled research transformation in Espoo. You will set strategy for AI-driven research, ensure access to platforms, computing, data storage and software, and build the AI Centre of Excellence across Research Areas.

You will lead a high-performing team, manage budgets and partnerships, and drive governance, security and responsible AI.