Head of AI Data Programme Management - 12 month FTC

Babcock Mission Critical Services España SA.; West Devon; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense and engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Head of AI Data Programme Management for a 12-month FTC role. This position will oversee the delivery of enterprise AI and data transformation initiatives, shape national security strategies, and drive innovation across various sectors. Strong leadership in complex programme management is essential, along with a solid background in AI technologies and financial management. The role offers hybrid working arrangements and competitive compensation.

Benefits

Matched contribution pension scheme

Access to Digital GP and health consultations

Holiday Trading options

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• 5+ years in senior programme leadership.
• Experience delivering complex AI or data programmes.
• Strong understanding of enterprise data systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational execution of AI and data programmes.
• Translate strategic initiatives into delivery plans.
• Manage complex cross-functional projects.

Skills

Technology transformation

AI and machine learning

Programme management frameworks

Financial management

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or Business/Technology Management

Tools

Azure

AWS

GCP

Job description

Head of AI Data Programme Management – 12 month FTC

Location: Devonport, Plymouth, GB, PL1 4SG; Portsmouth, GB, PO6 3EN; Bristol, GB, BS11 0YA; Portsmouth, GB, PO6 4TT; Westminster, London, GB, W1U 1QX.

Onsite or Hybrid: Hybrid

Job Title: Head of AI Data Programme Management

Location: South West + Hybrid Working Arrangements

Compensation: Competitive Salary + Benefits

Role Type: Full time / Fixed Term Contract

Role ID: SF70056

Lead the Future of AI and Data Transformation

At Babcock, we’re working to create a safe and secure world, together. If you join us, you can play your part as a Head of AI and Data Programme Management at our South West sites, near Bristol.

The role

As Head of AI and Data Programme Management, you’ll take the lead in delivering our enterprise AI and data transformation portfolio. This is a senior operational role where you’ll turn strategic vision into measurable outcomes, driving innovation across defence, aerospace, and engineering.

Day-to‑day, your work will shape how we harness AI and data to strengthen national security and critical infrastructure, making a real difference to society while accelerating your own career growth.

• Leading the operational execution of AI and data programmes across a global engineering enterprise
• Translating strategic initiatives into scalable delivery plans and measurable business outcomes
• Managing complex, cross‑functional projects spanning research, engineering, and policy domains
• Driving governance, risk management, and resource planning for multi‑million‑pound portfolios
• Engaging senior stakeholders to ensure alignment and successful delivery

This role is full time, 37.5 hours per week and provides hybrid working arrangements with days in the office and days working from home.

Essential experience of the Head of AI Data Programme Management

• Extensive experience in technology, data, or digital transformation, with 5+ years in senior programme leadership
• Proven track record delivering complex AI, data, or digital engineering programmes in large‑scale environments
• Strong understanding of AI, machine learning, and enterprise data systems, plus cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP)
• Expertise in programme management frameworks (MSP, PRINCE2, PMI, SAFe) and agile delivery practices
• Excellent financial and resource management skills with experience managing multi‑million‑pound budgets

Qualifications for the Head of AI Data Programme Management

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or Business/Technology Management
• Professional certifications in programme management (MSP, PRINCE2, PMI) are advantageous

Security Clearance

The successful candidate must be able to achieve and maintain Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) security clearance for this role.

Many of the positions within our company are subject to national security clearance and Trade Control restrictions. This means that your eligibility for certain roles may be affected by your place of birth, nationality, current or former citizenship, and any residency you hold or have held. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

What we offer

• Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
• Access to a Digital GP, annual health check, and nutritional consultations through Aviva DigiCare+
• Employee share scheme and shopping savings portal
• Payment of professional fees
• Reservists receive 10 days’ special paid leave
• Holiday Trading options
• Flexible working options
• A dynamic working environment

Babcock International

For over a century Babcock has helped to defend nations, protect communities and build a better world. To continue, we must adapt, advance and be a sustainable business with a shared goal.

We are a disability confident committed employer. If you have a disability or need any reasonable adjustments during the application and selection stages, please email [e-mail] with the subject header ‘Reasonable adjustments requirement’. We’re committed to building an inclusive culture where everyone’s free to thrive. We are happy to talk about flexible working – please ask about alternative patterns of work at interview.