Data, AI & Innovation Manager

National Skills Agency; Manchester; Remote; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading skills organization is seeking a Data, AI & Innovation Manager to spearhead the transformation into a data-driven environment. The role involves architecting digital infrastructures, integrating AI tools, and fostering an innovative culture within the organization. The ideal candidate has proven experience with data integration, automation, and technical team leadership.

Qualifications

• Proven experience designing and implementing data integration and automation projects.
• Minimum 2 years experience with Power BI, Excel, and automation tools in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills to translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead and maintain the design and implementation of a connected data architecture.
• Define and implement a strategy to eliminate data silos.
• Oversee the long-term systems integration strategy.

Skills

Data integration design

Automation projects

Systems architecture

APIs

Cloud-based platforms

Power BI

Python

SQL

Communication skills

Tools

Power BI

Excel

Power Automate

Job description

(This is a home based role)

Data, AI & Innovation Manager

Purpose of the Role

Our client is seeking a Data, AI & Innovation Manager to lead the transformation into a connected, data-driven, and AI-enabled organisation. This role is responsible for architecting and delivering a modern digital infrastructure that enhances performance, scales operations, and embeds intelligent decision-making across the organisation.

Beyond transformation, the role will ensure lasting capability by establishing a scalable digital foundation, upskilling teams, and embedding agile data governance. The focus is on building a culture of continuous innovation moving beyond one-off solutions to adaptable, future-proof systems that leverage emerging technologies and support rapid responses to market needs.

Key Outcomes

• A fully integrated data ecosystem connecting all major business platforms (e.g. CRM, finance, and learner/ERP systems).

• Real-time, accurate dashboards that support decision-making across departments.

• AI tools embedded into daily operations (e.g. predictive analytics, automation, chatbots).

• Elimination of manual trackers through intelligent, self-updating data systems.

• A culture of innovation and digital literacy embedded across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and maintain the design and implementation of a connected data architecture using secure APIs, automated workflows, and standardised data structures.

• Define and implement a strategy to eliminate data silos and reduce reliance on spreadsheets and offline trackers.

• Continuously identify and address gaps in data flow, reducing manual processes and improving integration between systems.

• Oversee the long-term systems integration strategy, ensuring that new tools and processes align with a centralised, future-proof data infrastructure.

• Identify opportunities to embed AI into operational workflows (e.g. automated risk alerts, engagement tracking, intelligent resource allocation).

• Pilot and scale AI-powered tools such as language models, chatbots, predictive dashboards, and automation, working with system partners where required.

• Stay ahead of emerging technologies and assess relevance to strategic goals.

• Act as the organisational lead for digital innovation and transformation, fostering a tech-first mindset and supporting digital skills development.

• Champion user-friendly, data-informed tools that empower teams and reduce manual workload.

• Promote digital confidence and capability across departments through training, coaching, and best-practice guidance.

• Establish robust data governance, including access permissions, version control, and compliance safeguards.

• Ensure all reporting meets relevant regulatory, audit, and compliance standards.

• Provide the senior leadership team with strategic insights to inform forecasting, risk management, and performance reviews.

• Line-manage a small IT/digital team with a broad remit across hardware, software, and innovation.

• Commission and oversee third-party partners when required.

Skills & Experience Required

Essential:

• Proven experience designing and implementing data integration and automation projects.

• Strong understanding of systems architecture, APIs, and cloud-based platforms.

• Minimum 2 years experience working with Power BI, Excel, and/or automation tools such as Power Automate in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong proficiency in Python, SQL, DAX, and Power Query (M language).

• Experience leading technical or cross-functional teams in a change or transformation context.

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical audiences.

Desirable:

• Experience implementing AI tools within education, apprenticeships, or similar sectors.

• Familiarity with industry-specific compliance and reporting standards.

• Awareness of data protection, security, and audit requirements.

• Exposure to business systems such as CRM, ERP, or apprenticeship management platforms.