Director of Business Development (Data & AI)

DEPT; London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in digital innovation is seeking a Director of Business Development for Data & AI services. This role focuses on driving revenue growth by acquiring enterprise clients and developing strategic relationships. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of data and AI applications, with proven success in sales within the technology sector. The position offers flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and a range of benefits, including private healthcare and family-friendly policies.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid working

Private healthcare

Mental health support

26 days holiday plus UK Bank Holidays

Support for commuting via season ticket loans

Family-friendly policies

Qualifications

• Proven success in selling data and AI solutions, closing enterprise deals in UKI markets.
• Strong understanding of data engineering, analytics, AI/ML, and their business applications.

Responsibilities

• Identify, pursue, and develop tailored value propositions for clients benefiting from Data & AI services.
• Build and manage pipelines across UKI and EMEA markets, evaluate opportunities.

Skills

Strategic Planning

Client-Centric Approach

Analytical Mindset

Job description

Director of Business Development (Data & AI) - UKI

Reporting to: VP Growth Experience & Engineering

Location: London, Manchester

DEPT/AI

DEPT/AI aims to produce industry-leading work by leveraging AI to enhance our services. The Data & AI practice includes data strategists, consultants, data scientists, and analysts working globally across various services—from commerce to media, content engineering, and internal operations. You will tackle some of the most challenging problems faced by top brands, alongside an experienced team.

This role is part of our EMEA Data craft team, which drives data engineering, data science, and AI initiatives across Europe. We combine expertise in data architecture, analytics, and AI to deliver data-driven solutions that foster lasting client relationships with brands like Sainsbury's, Nikon, Rituals, eBay, and Just Eat Takeaway.

Role Overview

The Director of Business Development (Data & AI) is responsible for driving revenue growth by establishing a dedicated commercial team focused on Data & AI services in the UKI markets. This involves acquiring enterprise clients, developing pipelines across markets, and securing large opportunities to meet sales targets. Collaboration with local sales teams and our Centers of Excellence is essential to develop and commercialize propositions.

This position requires a commercially driven, strategic thinker with a successful track record in selling data and AI solutions within the technology and marketing services industries.

Job Purpose

As part of the EMEA Data craft team, you will lead enterprise engagement and revenue growth by building relationships and acquiring new clients for DEPT's Data & AI services. Success depends on a curious, commercially focused mindset, deep understanding of data and AI applications, and the ability to translate complex solutions into compelling business value. Your primary focus will be on closing deals and generating revenue, leveraging strategic selling skills and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Key Responsibilities

• Enterprise client acquisition: Identify, pursue, and develop tailored value propositions for clients benefiting from Data & AI services. Act as the primary commercial contact and translate AI concepts into strong pitch decks.
• Pipeline development & opportunity qualification: Build and manage pipelines across UKI and EMEA markets, evaluate opportunities, and collaborate with regional teams for cross-selling.
• Coordination with sales teams: Work closely with local sales to ensure messaging consistency and support opportunity pursuit.
• Collaboration with CoE's: Partner with technical teams to develop and market propositions, create case studies, and ensure offerings meet client needs.
• Strategy execution: Implement unified Data & AI strategies across markets, promote cross-selling, and generate new business through outreach and networking.
• Client relationship management: Develop strategic relationships, ensure satisfaction, and identify expansion opportunities.
• Pitching & sales targets: Lead pitches, articulate value propositions, and develop strategies to meet or exceed sales goals.

What We Are Looking For

• Proven success in selling data and AI solutions, closing enterprise deals in UKI markets.
• Strong understanding of data engineering, analytics, AI/ML, and their business applications.
• Experience translating technical solutions into business outcomes and delivering compelling pitches.
• Strategic planning skills, business acumen, and financial literacy.
• Client-centric approach with excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Analytical mindset with ability to leverage data insights for sales growth.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment and build strong relationships across organizational levels.
• Experience in digital agency or consulting environments is a plus.

We Offer

• Flexible hybrid working (2 days in-office, depending on location).
• Competitive salary based on experience, with benefits including pension, private healthcare, mental health support, and sick pay.
• 26 days holiday plus UK Bank Holidays.
• Support for commuting via season ticket loans and cycle-to-work schemes.
• Family-friendly policies, social events, guest speakers, learning opportunities, and a buddy program.
• Recognition as a B Corp and awards such as 'Agency of the Year.'
• Work with diverse clients of all sizes and industries, with opportunities for growth and development.
• Participation in global initiatives like DEPT Cares Month, supporting charities.

Who We Are

We are innovators, always looking forward to creating what doesn't exist today. As a digital-born agency with strong tech and marketing skills, we hire curious, self-driven talents who thrive on innovation.

Our culture balances global reach with personal care—supporting your growth, autonomy, and problem-solving wherever you are. Committed to sustainability and social responsibility, we are Climate Neutral and B Corporation certified.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

We foster an inclusive workplace, actively recruiting and nurturing diverse talent. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are happy to discuss any adjustments needed during the recruitment process. If you're unsure about your fit, apply anyway—everyone deserves a chance to succeed. Learn more about our DEI efforts on our website.