Director of Data & AI Transformation

About the Role

Oliver James is collaborating with a rapidly expanding international client to recruit a Director of Data & AI Transformation based in Dublin. This newly created leadership role requires a seasoned professional with a profound background in data, analytics, AI, and technology-driven transformation. The position demands commercial acumen, stakeholder engagement skills, and delivery expertise to establish a high-performing capability across Ireland.

The Director will be pivotal in defining how the organisation develops and implements Data & AI-focused transformation solutions, engages with enterprise clients, nurtures senior relationships, fosters expert capabilities, and delivers measurable business outcomes. This role is ideal for a senior leader aiming to extend beyond narrow delivery responsibilities by shaping strategy, developing propositions, building trusted market connections, and leading complex transformation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead high-level discussions regarding data, AI, analytics, automation, and digital transformation opportunities.
• Analyze client challenges and craft practical, commercially feasible transformation strategies.
• Establish and maintain trusted relationships with senior business, technology, data, and transformation stakeholders.
• Develop and coordinate a network of expert Data, AI, and transformation professionals across Ireland and the UK.
• Create solutions in areas such as data strategy, AI adoption, analytics, automation, data platforms, governance, and operating model changes.
• Support proposition development, go-to-market messaging, and commercial model formulation.
• Oversee delivery to ensure top quality, governance, client satisfaction, and tangible outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to assemble appropriate capabilities for each engagement.
• Establish standards, methodologies, and repeatable processes as the capability expands.
• Serve as a senior market ambassador for Data & AI-led transformation initiatives.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience in data, AI, analytics, digital transformation, or technology-driven business change.
• Proven success in devising and delivering complex solutions for enterprise clients or senior internal stakeholders.
• Strong expertise in data strategy, AI integration, analytics, automation, cloud data platforms, data governance, or operating model transformation.
• Solid commercial judgment and the ability to identify, assess, and design new opportunities.
• Comfortable engaging with C-suite and senior leadership executives.
• Experienced in leading cross-functional teams, specialist groups, delivery teams, or partner ecosystems.
• Deep knowledge of the Irish market landscape.
• Skilled in translating ambiguity into structured plans, credible solutions, and executable strategies.
• Possesses an entrepreneurial spirit with enthusiasm for building and scaling capabilities from inception.

Why Join?

This role represents a unique chance to contribute at a crucial phase of growth in a strategically vital market segment. The selected candidate will influence the establishment of a Data & AI transformation practice from the ground up, shape regional growth strategies, collaborate with senior enterprise stakeholders, and develop a foundational platform across Ireland. Supported by a reputable international organisation, this position offers significant ownership and lasting impact.