Director, Data Innovation & Strategy (Higher...

Sydney Leading University Base + 10% bonus Hybrid 12-Month FTC

Our client, a leading university in Sydney, is seeking a visionary Director, Data Innovation & Strategy to lead the development and execution of the institution's enterprise Data Strategy and drive innovation in data and AI.

Reporting to the Chief Data Officer, this senior leadership role defines how the organization harnesses data and AI as trusted institutional assets to enhance teaching, research, and operations. The Director will identify emerging trends, lead proof of concept projects, and scale successful pilots into enterprise services.

The role partners with faculties, divisions, and external organizations - fostering collaboration, innovation, and responsible adoption of AI and data technologies across the institution.

• Lead the design and delivery of the university's enterprise Data Strategy, ensuring alignment with strategic and institutional priorities
• Evaluate and pilot emerging data and AI trends, technologies, and platforms for practical application and scalability
• Deliver proofs of concept and innovation pilots, establishing pathways for successful initiatives to scale enterprise wide
• Build strategic partnerships with industry, government, and research to drive co investment and thought leadership in AI innovation
• Engage academic and professional leaders to surface use cases and foster demand for data driven innovation
• Promote capability uplift through workshops, showcases, and communities of practice
• Ensure all initiatives comply with governance, privacy, and ethical standards, embedding responsible AI practices
• Define and monitor success measures, providing transparent reporting on progress, benefits, and risks

• Tertiary qualifications in data management, computer science, AI, or related discipline
• Proven experience developing and implementing enterprise data strategies in large, complex organizations
• Deep understanding of AI/ML, generative AI, and emerging data platforms
• Demonstrated success in leading innovation pilots and translating them into measurable business outcomes
• Strong capability in strategy development, business cases, and investment analysis
• Skilled communicator with exceptional stakeholder engagement and executive influence
• Experience building strategic partnerships across industry, government, or academia
• Commitment to responsible, ethical, and sustainable AI adoption

• 12-month fixed term contract
• Hybrid role - on site in Sydney (NSW based candidates only)
• Full Australian work rights required

This is a rare opportunity to shape the university's approach to data and AI innovation - influencing how technology and strategy converge to enhance education, research, and operational excellence.

Submit your details and attach your resume below. Hint: make sure all relevant experience is included in your CV and keep your message to the hiring team short and sweet - 2000 characters or less is perfect.

Attach CV • Attach Cover Letter. Please tick this box to signal your acceptance of our Privacy Policy in submitting your details.