Director of Data and AI

• Define and deliver the NHSBSA's enterprise-wide Data and AI Strategy, ensuring data is governed, analysed and utilised effectively across the organisation.
• Lead the development of innovative data products, services and AI-enabled solutions that support evidence-based decision making and improved outcomes.
• Oversee nationally significant data services, including official statistics, insight dashboards and the Open Data Portal.
• Establish robust data governance frameworks, ensuring compliance with NHS, government and industry regulations whilst promoting ethical and responsible AI adoption.
• Drive the implementation of emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, machine learning and advanced analytics.
• Build a data and AI-enabled culture, empowering teams and stakeholders to confidently use data and AI tools in a safe and effective manner.
• Ensure interoperability and integration of data and AI solutions across NHSBSA and external healthcare partners.
• Use data storytelling, insight and analytics to influence strategic direction and organisational performance.
• Develop strong relationships across government, the NHS and wider health and care sectors to position NHSBSA as a leader in data and AI innovation.

We're looking for an ambitious and forward-thinking leader who combines technical credibility with strategic vision and strong stakeholder influence.

You'll bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience in data, analytics, digital or AI-focused environments.
• A strong track record of developing and delivering organisational data strategies at scale.
• Experience leading complex, multi-disciplinary teams through transformation and change.
• The ability to influence executive stakeholders and build collaborative partnerships across complex organisations.
• A passion for innovation, continuous improvement and delivering measurable outcomes through data-driven decision making.
• Excellent communication and storytelling skills, with the ability to translate complex insights into compelling strategic narratives.
• A commitment to responsible AI, ethical data use and fostering a culture of inclusion, learning and innovation.

• 27 days annual leave, rising to 29 days after five years and 33 days after ten years' service, plus public holidays
• Outstanding NHS Pension Scheme with a 23.7% employer contribution
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Access to colleague wellbeing and inclusion networks
• NHS Car Lease Scheme
• A wide range of employee benefits and high-street discounts
• The opportunity to lead national-scale data and AI transformation within one of the UK's largest public sector organisations

Working Arrangement

NHSBSA are committed to flexible working and currently operate a hybrid model. The office base for this role is Newcastle upon Tyne, with regular in-person collaboration expected multiple times each week.

Join Us

If you're an inspiring leader with the vision, curiosity and ambition to shape the future of data and AI within a nationally important organisation, we'd love to hear from you.

Help to harness the power of data and artificial intelligence to improve services, support the NHS and make a lasting difference to people's lives. Reference: 57126091

Reed Technology is proud to be partnering with the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) to appoint a Director of Data and AI, a high-profile senior leadership role to shape the future of Data, AI and healthcare insights. We are seeking an exceptional strategic leader to join as Director of Data and AI, a critical member of the senior leadership community leading the organisation's data and AI agenda, helping to transform how data is used to improve services, support decision making and deliver better health outcomes across the NHS. Reporting to the Chief DDaT Officer and serving as a member of the NHSBSA leadership team, you will provide strategic leadership across four critical areas: Data Strategy & Governance, Data Services & Products, Data Platforms, and Data Science & AI. Working at the heart of a nationally significant organisation, you'll harness the power of data, advanced analytics and emerging AI technologies to drive innovation, improve operational performance, and provide critical data insight to government, NHS leaders and clinicians. About NHSBSA The NHSBSA supports millions of citizens, NHS staff and healthcare providers through a range of national services and platforms. They process vast amounts of data every day, creating opportunities to generate meaningful insights that influence health outcomes, service delivery and strategic decision-making across the healthcare system. As they continue their digital transformation journey, we're seeking an inspirational leader who can champion innovation, lead high-performing teams and ensure the responsible adoption of AI and data-driven technologies across the organisation.