Analytics Enablement Director - Data-Driven Transformation

SMBC Group; Greater London; On-site; Full time

Job description

SMBC Group, a leader in universal banking across EMEA, offers a rewarding opportunity to help our clients transition to a sustainable future. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products, investment banking and capital market solutions, and we are looking for an Analytics Enablement Director to drive data‑driven transformation within our EMEA Data Office.

Role Summary

The Analytics Enablement Director will lead the development and execution of a Hub & Spoke operating model to support data democratization, analytics and AI across the bank. The focus is to deliver governance, standardisation and local agility to enable business units while driving adoption of data‑driven solutions.

Accountabilities and Responsibilities

• Build and lead the Hub & Spoke model to enable data democratization for reporting, analytics and AI within established governance frameworks.
• Develop and nurture trusted relationships with business leaders, translating their goals into Data, Analytics and AI opportunities and maintaining a prioritised backlog.
• Oversee triage of new requests, ensuring the information captured allows Data and Technical teams to size and prioritise work.
• Deliver a pipeline of Analytics Enablement initiatives, ensuring quality, traceability to requirements and adherence to project plans.
• Act as the primary contact for key stakeholders, communicating progress, managing expectations and navigating complex corporate environments.
• Manage risks, dependencies and issue resolution for the Analytics Enablement portfolio, serving as the senior escalation point.
• Lead, develop and mentor a high‑performing team, bridging the gap between data, technical teams and business users.
• Collaborate with HR and the wider data culture community to establish talent pathways, including apprenticeships, secondment and formal qualifications.
• Drive cross‑functional collaboration to provide support services for distributed and embedded data roles across business units.
• Build productive relationships with Data Teams, Technology Teams and Business Departments to support the delivery of prioritised initiatives.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience and Qualifications

• Proven experience leading change initiatives that uplifted data‑driven enablement in other organisations.
• Strong leadership experience in Data or IT delivery roles managing large portfolios of initiatives.
• Ability to manage risks, dependencies and issue resolution across complex portfolios.
• Experience with change management for Data and IT projects and adoption strategies.
• Knowledge of agile, hybrid or scaled delivery frameworks.
• Ability to assemble and lead cross‑functional teams and enable business‑embedded data roles.
• Strategic thinking, commercial awareness and strong influencing and negotiation skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation and decision‑making abilities.
• Evidence of business value derived from delivered Data and IT initiatives.
• Deep understanding of governance frameworks and best practices related to Data, Analytics and AI.
• Experience in financial services industry with knowledge of data‑related regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrable experience leading, developing and mentoring high‑performing teams.
• Good grasp of Data Analytics technologies and relevant programming or modelling skills.
• Degree in Data, Computer Science, Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Knowledge of emerging trends within Data Analytics and Data Science landscapes.
• Statistical modelling experience, including forecasting, regression, probability distributions.
• Experience with AI project delivery, governance considerations and cloud environments such as GCP.

What We Offer

We provide a competitive remuneration package and a comprehensive benefits programme designed to support physical, mental and professional wellbeing. This includes hybrid and flexible working, health and life insurance, behavioural health services, learning and development opportunities, and a strong culture of diversity and inclusion.

We value a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Reasonable adjustments will be offered to candidates with disabilities upon request.