Head of Innovation and AI

Tate; England; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK institution based in Hampshire is seeking a Head of Digital Innovation and AI. This hybrid role offers a salary up to £75,000, focusing on driving digital transformation across the organisation. The ideal candidate will possess leadership experience in innovation and AI, oversee a multidisciplinary team, and shape strategic initiatives. Apply now to help revolutionise the student and staff experience!

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in complex organisations with a focus on digital innovation.
• Knowledge of agile methodologies and change management.
• Ability to translate digital trends into practical solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of digital innovation strategies.
• Promote a culture of experimentation and innovation.
• Oversee a multidisciplinary team and foster collaboration.
• Deliver impactful innovation initiatives.
• Advise governance bodies on strategic investments.
• Shape digital innovation frameworks and monitor their impact.
• Represent the organisation at national forums.

Skills

Proven leadership experience in digital innovation

Understanding of architectural design principles

Strong grasp of digital trends and data strategy

Exceptional communication skills

Experience managing large teams

Ability to develop long-term strategic plans

Strong analytical mindset

Commitment to inclusive environments

Job description

Overview

Head of Digital Innovation and AI

Up to £75,000 (depending on experience). Based in Hampshire. Hybrid Working.

About the role

Our client is a leading UK institution with a bold digital strategy, aiming to revolutionise the student and staff experience through cutting-edge innovation. As part of their transformation journey, they offer an exciting opportunity to join their technology and digital services team as Head of Digital Innovation and AI.

In this role, you will lead a newly formed team of technologists, product specialists, and change managers to embed digital innovation and AI across the organisation. You will be responsible for shaping strategic initiatives that harness data, automation, and emerging technologies to deliver measurable improvements across research, education, and enterprise. This is a high-impact leadership role, ideal for someone who thrives in complex environments and is passionate about driving meaningful change.

Role and Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of digital innovation strategies aligned with organisational goals, introducing agile ways of working to unlock early value.
• Promote a culture of experimentation and innovation across staff and students, staying ahead of emerging trends in AI, automation, and digital transformation.
• Oversee a multidisciplinary team, fostering collaboration, mentoring talent, and building a culture of digital curiosity and agility.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners to deliver impactful innovation initiatives that enhance the user experience.
• Provide expert advice and evidence-based recommendations to senior governance bodies, supporting strategic investment decisions.
• Shape and evolve digital innovation frameworks, ensuring alignment with architectural principles, security, accessibility, and user experience.
• Monitor and assess the impact of innovation initiatives, adjusting strategies to optimise outcomes and ensure long-term success.
• Represent the organisation at national forums, building relationships with peer institutions, suppliers, and industry bodies.

Key Skills and Experience

• Proven leadership experience in digital innovation, AI, or transformation roles within complex organisations.
• Deep understanding of architectural design principles, agile delivery, and change management.
• Strong grasp of digital trends, data strategy, and automation technologies, with the ability to translate them into practical solutions.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at executive level.
• Experience managing large, multidisciplinary teams and driving performance through mentorship and strategic planning.
• Ability to develop and deliver long-term strategic plans, balancing innovation with operational excellence.
• Strong analytical mindset, capable of using data to inform decisions and measure success.
• Commitment to fostering inclusive, collaborative environments and championing organisational values.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to shape the future of digital innovation — apply now with your most up-to-date CV!

Please be aware this advert will remain open until the vacancy has been filled. Interviews will take place throughout this period, therefore we encourage you to apply early to avoid disappointment.

Tate is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

Tate is committed to promoting equal opportunities. To ensure that every candidate has the best experience with us, we encourage you to let us know if there are any adjustments we can make during the application or interview process. Your comfort and accessibility are our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Additionally, we value and respect your individuality, and we invite you to share your preferred pronouns in your application