> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2215218-head-of-data-ai](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2215218-head-of-data-ai). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Head of Data & AI - **Company:** Greggs plc - **Location:** Newcastle upon Tyne, UK - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Data Analysis, Big Data, Data as a Services, Data Governance, Data Infrastructure, Machine Learning, Software Product Management, Data Management, Databricks - **Published:** August 25, 2026 - **Apply:** https://careershub.greggs.co.uk/members/?j=61722&lang=en& ## About the Role This is a rare opportunity to build on our existing foundations and lead a new AI capability within a major UK consumer brand, not manage an existing one. We're looking for a strategic leader who can translate AI potential into business value, drive organisation-wide change, and influence at the highest levels and demonstrate: * A credible and influential leader, confident operating at Executive and Operating Board level, to secure alignment, sponsorship and commitment * An exceptional stakeholder manager, able to collaborate and build strong partnerships across business functions to shape priorities and drive change * A People-focused leader, experienced in developing high-performing teams, fostering innovation and embedding new ways of working * Deep, hands on experience of agentic AI, machine learning and AI deployment in production environments, ideally including building an AI or Data Science capability from the ground up * A proven track record of developing compelling business cases, securing Board-level investment and translating AI strategy into measurable business outcomes * Comfortable acting as the organisation's leading voice on AI and data, influencing senior stakeholders across a large and complex business. * Demonstrable experience leading business transformation and embedding new ways of working through technology and AI * Significant leadership experience within a large-scale Data, Analytics and/or AI function in a consumer-facing, retail, hospitality or FMCG environment * Strong understanding of modern cloud data platforms (such as Databricks), business intelligence, data governance and master data management * Experience building, scaling and leading high-performing teams, including creating entirely new capabilities and functions * Proven ability to work effectively with technology, engineering and product teams to deliver strategic business objectives ## Description * Colleague Networks - internal groups where colleagues and their allies can share their own experiences, offer feedback on the way we do things at Greggs, and provide support to one another, * This is a full-time role, however flexibility in this will be considered * We know that having a work-life balance is important, so we offer our colleagues as much flexibility as possible in line with the needs of their role * The base location for this role is Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE12 8EW What you'll do AI strategy & transformation * Define and deliver Greggs' AI strategy, taking the business from AI experimentation to controlled, scalable and sustainable delivery, with agentic AI at the heart of the opportunity * Own and deliver the machine learning roadmap, business case and operating model for AI, securing Operating Board investment to deliver meaningful business outcomes * Identify, prioritise and scale AI opportunities across Greggs, embedding AI into the way the business operates and makes decisions * Act as a catalyst for change, helping colleagues across the organisation understand, adopt and maximise the value of AI AI capability & governance * Lead and grow Greggs' AI capability, including AI Product, Data Science, AI Productivity and AI Governance * Establish the frameworks, governance and controls required to ensure AI is deployed responsibly, balancing innovation with appropriate risk management * Drive AI capability across the organisation through initiatives such as our AI Academy, AI Champions network and adoption programmes for knowledge workers Data, analytics & decision intelligence * Provide leadership for Greggs' established Data Platform, Business Intelligence, Data Science and Analytics teams, ensuring reliable, scalable and trusted data services * Continue the evolution of Greggs' Databricks platform and analytics capability, helping the business become increasingly insight and decision-led * Ensure data foundations, governance and reporting capabilities support the organisation's wider AI ambitions Master Data & business enablement * Lead Greggs' Master Data function, maintaining high-quality, trusted data that supports operational excellence and strategic decision making * Oversee the Business Analysis and business-aligned delivery teams, ensuring a clear link between business challenges, AI opportunities and measurable outcomes * Work closely with technology, product and business leaders across functions including Retail, People, Property, Finance, Supply Chain and Commercial to shape priorities and deliver value Leadership * Build and inspire high-performing teams, creating a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement * Act as Greggs' leading voice on Data and AI, influencing stakeholders at all levels and helping shape the future direction of the business * Be passionate about the opportunities that are ahead for us ## Related Videos - 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