Head of AI and Innovation

M&G; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services company is searching for a Head of AI and Innovation to spearhead their digital transformation and AI strategies. This pivotal role requires a solid understanding of AI technologies, leadership capabilities, and the ability to foster innovation across the organization. The ideal candidate will contribute to the growth of M&G Life by developing comprehensive AI strategies that drive business value and align closely with corporate objectives.

Qualifications

• Experienced in AI strategy and innovation.
• Proven track record in leadership roles.
• Strong background in Data Science and Machine Learning.

Responsibilities

• Define an interconnected AI and innovation strategy.
• Lead the innovation agenda and identify new technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Collaboration

Analytical skills

Project management

Problem-solving

Data interpretation

Education

Degree in Data Science or similar

Job description

At M&G our purpose is to give everyone real confidence to put their money to work. As an international savings and investments business with roots stretching back more than 170 years, we offer a range of financial products and services through Asset Management, Life and Wealth. All three operating segments work together to deliver attractive financial outcomes for our clients, and superior shareholder returns.

Through our behaviours of telling it like it is, owning it now, and moving it forward together with care and integrity; we are creating an exceptional place to work for exceptional talent.

We will consider flexible working arrangements for any of our roles and also offer work place accommodations to ensure you have what you need to effectively deliver in your role.

Head of AI and Innovation

Reports to:Director of Data, MI & AI

The Role:The M&G Life business has an ambitious strategy for growth that encompasses the creation of a broader range of investment solutions, enhances customer access to our products, and expands our distribution capability while delivering value through advise.

The ability to achieve our strategic goals and build a future-ready business relies on a coherent, integrated digital, data & AI strategy bolstered by robust governance processes.

The Head of AI and Innovation will be responsible for defining an interconnected AI and innovation strategy in partnership with the Group Technology function. This strategy will support the overall digital, data & AI objectives, cover all aspects of the Life business, and drive business transformation through innovation. Key areas of focus include:

• AI Strategy and Management:Develop and deliver an AI strategy that strengthens foundational AI capabilities. Utilise advanced AI techniques to provide critical insights, drive efficiency, and create value across the business. Work closely with Group Technology and business stakeholders to implement this strategy.

• Innovation:Lead the innovation agenda by identifying and implementing new technologies and approaches to drive business transformation. Showcase compelling use cases of AI and foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the organisation.

All of the above will require the role holder to undertake the following:

• Collaboration:Work closely with various departments, including Marketing, IT, Sales, Distribution, Propositions, and Customer Service, to ensure AI and innovation strategies align with business goals.
• Strategy Development:Contribute to the broader digital, data & AI strategy, working closely with the Director of Data, MI & AI.
• Leadership:Lead and mentor a team of AI and innovation professionals both internally and with third party suppliers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Key Work Level Accountabilities:
Integration Leader

• Outline the current state environment and create a transition plan to move to the target state, including sequencing and prioritisation via different delivery model options.
• Support the Director of Data, MI & AI in their role as the central point person for all Life AI and innovation topics. Including
  • Lare Language Models (LLMs)
  • Agentic AI, Autonomous agents for workflow automation
  • AI-powered decision intelligence systems
  • AI ethics and responsible AI implementation
• Deliver AI solutions across the full life cycle from PoCs and MVPs into production.
• Develop relevant business cases for the implementation of new AI and innovation capabilities.
• Act as the thought leader within Life regarding the adoption of new and emerging AI technologies and innovation, engaging with Group Technology and key third-party partners.
• Ensure alignment with the overall digital, data & AI strategy and business objectives.
• Foster strong working relationships with operational business units, marketing, sales, distribution, and the group technology teams.

Key Skills, Competencies & Experience:

Skills and Competencies

• Action & impact-oriented, able to move at pace and bring people along the way.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong analytical and data interpretation skills.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to influence and drive change across the organization.

Experience:

• Strong communication skills and proven ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to non technical stakeholders at exec level.
• Significant experience in AI strategy, innovation and deployment in leadership roles.
• Strong background in Data Science, Machine Learning and data platforms
• Experience deploying various AI technologies and their application in business contexts.
• Extensive experience in a leadership role within data strategy, governance, and AI initiatives.
• Strong experience in defining strategic roadmaps around AI, digital, and data transformation.
• Knowledge of product design and evolution into service design.
• Experience in Life or wider Financial Services.
• Knowledge of Agile/Scrum methodologies, service design & digital transformation.
• Experience working in a highly controlled and regulated environment.

The Head of AI and Innovation will play a pivotal role in driving the future growth and transformation of M&G Life, ensuring our AI and innovation strategies are effectively implemented to achieve our long-term objectives.

Recruiter: Sarah Mathers

Closing Date: 15 July 2025

We have a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture at M&G plc, underpinned by our policies and our employee-led networks who provide networking opportunities, advice and support for the diverse communities our colleagues represent. Regardless of gender, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, nationality, disability or long term condition, we are looking to attract, promote and retain exceptional people. We also welcome those who take part in military service and those returning from career breaks.

M&G is also proud to be a Disability Confident Leader , and we welcome applications from candidates with long-term health conditions, disabilities, or neuro-divergent conditions. Being a Disability Confident Leader means that candidates who meet the minimum criteria of a job, will be offered an interview if they 'opt in' to the scheme when applying.

Ifyou need assistanceor an alternative means of applying for a role due to a disability or additional need,pleaselet usknow by contacting us at: [e-mail]