Head of Data & AI

About the role

A diversified critical infrastructure group is hiring a Head of Data & AI for a greenfield mandate, with board-level backing and a clear commercial agenda. The business rebuilt its technology function over the past 12 months and now focuses on data and AI. Reporting to the CIO, you will build the enterprise data capability from scratch, starting with the first data lake targeted for early 2027. The role is based in Darwin or Cairns, with relocation support available.

Key responsibilities

• 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, turning investment into measurable revenue, cost and operational outcomes.
• Explore use cases such as computer vision and IoT analytics for customer behaviour, AI-driven wildlife monitoring and predictive analytics across physical assets.
• Oversee delivery through technology partners and a lean internal team, working directly with the CIO and divisional CEOs.

Required profile

• Experience building or significantly scaling an enterprise data capability, ideally in infrastructure, transport, energy, aviation, mining or other asset-heavy industries.
• Track record of taking AI solutions into production with measurable commercial outcomes.
• Strong technical understanding of modern cloud data platforms, data architecture and governance.
• Commercial credibility, executive presence and experience leading transformation through external delivery partners.
• IoT, sensor or computer vision experience is highly regarded.
• Based in Darwin or Cairns, or open to relocating.

Required skills

• Modern cloud data platforms (Azure preferred)
• Data architecture and governance
• AI and data lake development

What we offer

• Package of up to $220k base plus superannuation.
• Relocation support available.
• SLT role with direct exposure to divisional CEOs and the board.