Head of Data & AI

Head of Data & AILocation: Darwin or Cairns | HybridPackage: Up to $220k Base + Super + Relocation support availableThe Opportunity:Most data leaders spend their first year cleaning up someone else's mess. This one doesn't.You'll join a diversified critical infrastructure group with a greenfield Data & AI mandate, committed investment, board-level backing and a clear commercial agenda.The business has spent the past 12 months rebuilding its technology function, with a new strategy, operating model and board-approved two-year investment roadmap.Now the focus shifts to Data & AI.Reporting directly to the CIO, you'll build the enterprise data capability from scratch, starting with its first data lake, targeted for early 2027. The AI roadmap is funded, an implementation partner is engaged, and the opportunity to create commercial value is significant.Think computer vision and IoT analytics to understand customer behaviour, AI-driven wildlife monitoring, predictive analytics across physical assets and longer-term opportunities to commercialise what gets built.This is an SLT role with genuine ownership, direct exposure to divisional CEOs and the board, and the mandate to turn data and AI investment into measurable business outcomes.What You'll Own:Build the enterprise data strategy, governance framework and operating model from the ground up.Deliver the data lake and move the business beyond traditional BI into predictive and prescriptive analytics.Lead the two-year AI roadmap, translating investment into measurable revenue, cost and operational outcomes.Oversee delivery through technology partners and a lean internal team, working directly with the CIO and divisional CEOs.What You'll Bring:Experience building or significantly scaling an enterprise data capability, ideally across infrastructure, transport, energy, aviation, mining or other asset-heavy industries.A track record of taking AI solutions into production with measurable commercial outcomes. IoT, sensor or computer vision experience is highly regarded.Strong technical understanding of modern cloud data platforms (Azure preferred), data architecture and governance.Commercial credibility, executive presence and experience leading transformation through external delivery partners.Based in Darwin or Cairns, or open to relocating.Apply now or reach out for a confidential discussion.📧 george.bates@latitudeit.com.au🔗 George Bates | LinkedIn