Head of PMO (AI) - MBB

Head of PMO (AI) - MBBAbout the OpportunityOur client is building a world-class AI organisation responsible for delivering large-scale AI products, platforms and enterprise transformation programmes.They are seeking an experienced Head of Delivery & Operations to establish and lead a high-performing delivery function responsible for portfolio governance, operational excellence and execution across a broad portfolio of AI initiatives.This is a highly visible leadership role suited to someone who has built delivery organisations from the ground up and can balance strategic oversight with operational execution in a fast-paced technology environment.The RoleThe Head of Delivery & Operations will be responsible for creating and scaling the delivery engine that enables the successful execution of multiple AI products, platforms and transformation programmes.The successful candidate will lead a team of Technical Program Managers (TPMs), establish best-in-class delivery processes, provide executive portfolio visibility and oversee key operational functions including procurement, finance, vendor management and recruitment coordination.This role requires an exceptional operator who thrives in high-growth environments and enjoys building structure without creating unnecessary bureaucracy.Key ResponsibilitiesDelivery LeadershipBuild, lead and develop a high-performing Delivery function from the ground up.Recruit, mentor and manage a team of Technical Program Managers embedded across product and engineering teams.Establish scalable delivery methodologies, governance frameworks and operational standards.Create a delivery culture focused on execution, accountability and continuous improvement.Portfolio ManagementOwn the end-to-end delivery portfolio across multiple AI products and strategic programmes.Provide real-time visibility into programme health, delivery risks, dependencies and resource allocation.Drive predictable delivery through effective planning, forecasting and risk management.Manage project intake, prioritisation and capacity planning across the organisation.Coordinate cross-functional teams to remove blockers and improve execution.Define release readiness standards and lead post-delivery reviews to continuously improve performance.Executive Reporting & GovernanceDevelop executive dashboards and AI-powered reporting capabilities that provide clear visibility across the portfolio.Produce regular portfolio updates, delivery reports and performance reviews for senior leadership.Deliver concise, data-driven insights that support strategic decision-making.Respond quickly to executive reporting requirements and business priorities.Operations & Business EnablementOversee operational processes supporting technology delivery, including procurement, finance and resource planning.Manage strategic technology partners and external vendors, ensuring delivery against agreed objectives and quality standards.Coordinate recruitment operations in partnership with Talent Acquisition and Engineering leadership.Support financial planning, budget tracking and operational reporting.Ensure all programmes have measurable business outcomes and clearly defined value realisation metrics.Required Experience12+ years' experience leading technology delivery, programme management or operations within a software or technology organisation.Proven success managing complex portfolios consisting of multiple concurrent technology initiatives.Experience building delivery organisations, PMO functions or Technical Programme Management teams from inception.Strong understanding of Agile delivery methodologies and modern software development practices.Experience supporting AI, machine learning or large-scale digital transformation programmes.Demonstrated ability to simplify complex portfolio data into clear executive reporting.Experience working across procurement, finance, recruitment and vendor management functions.Strong commercial awareness and operational leadership skills.Technical KnowledgeCandidates should demonstrate experience with:Agile delivery methodologiesSoftware Development Lifecycle (SDLC)AI and Machine Learning programme deliveryPortfolio management and governanceExecutive reporting and analyticsDelivery planning and forecastingAI-enabled reporting and workflow automationModern collaboration and project management platformsPreferred BackgroundExperience within one or more of the following environments would be advantageous:Enterprise technology organisationsAI-first businessesDigital transformation programmesConsulting firmsHighly regulated industriesLarge-scale public sector or enterprise transformation initiativesPersonal AttributesThe successful candidate will demonstrate:Strong leadership and coaching capabilityExcellent organisational and operational skillsExceptional stakeholder managementBias for action and executionCommercial thinkingStructured problem-solvingCalm decision-making under pressurePassion for building high-performing delivery organisationsWhy Join?This is an opportunity to build and lead the delivery function behind a large-scale AI transformation programme, shaping how innovative AI products are delivered at enterprise scale while working alongside senior technology and business leaders.