The Head of Data Innovation leads the strategic use of data to drive innovation, improve decision‑making, and enhance operational efficiency. This role bridges data science, analytics, and business strategy, fostering a culture of data‑driven innovation across the organization. Reporting to the Group IT Director.
Main Responsibilities
* Develop and implement a company‑wide data strategy aligned with business goals.
* Identify opportunities for innovation through data insights and emerging technologies.
* Lead cross‑functional teams in delivering data‑driven projects and proof‑of‑concepts.
* Build and maintain scalable data infrastructure (e.g., data lakes, pipelines).
* Ensure data quality, governance, and compliance with regulations.
* Translate complex data into actionable insights for non‑technical stakeholders.
* Mentor data scientists, analysts, and innovation specialists.
* Collaborate with leadership to embed data into strategic planning.
* Stay ahead of trends in AI, machine learning, and data tooling.
* Proven experience in data science, analytics, or innovation management.
* Strong leadership and communication skills.
* Familiarity with data platforms, visualization tools, and AI/ML technologies.
* Understanding of data governance and privacy regulations.
* Strategic thinker with a hands‑on approach to problem‑solving.
* Excellent written and spoken English with the ability to communicate clearly and at all levels.
* Ability to operate as a team player.
* Ability to work well under pressure.
* Excellent interpersonal and organisational skills.
* Must be proactive, methodical and results‑orientated.
* Ability to take accurate minutes of meetings.
* Highly organised, motivated and able to prioritise workload.
* Ability to manage own workload effectively and work to strict deadlines.
* Exceptional customer service skills with a natural flair of providing support and guidance and going ‘the extra mile’.
* Process driven and able to deliver results in a high volume.
* Ability to use initiative and identify solutions when a problem or difficult situation arises.
* Must be able to demonstrate credibility to build professional relationships with both employees and managers.
* Discreet when managing confidential matters.
* Ability to collate and interpret statistical data;
o Able to build lasting relationships with internal and external stakeholders/suppliers.
* An understanding/appreciation of the service requirements and the management of day to day operational issues.
* Ability to influence and persuade key decision makers.
Hours of Work
The Equality Act
Metroline is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with due regard to legal obligations for protected characteristics i.e. age, disability, marriage and civil partnership, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief, sex and sexual orientation.
How to apply
Please email your CV and a cover letter to: vacancies@metroline.co.uk
Please ensure that the subject line of your email clearly indicates the position and vacancy code
Applications
Applications should include:
* the reasons you are applying for the post
* why you believe you are a suitable candidate
* any relevant qualifications or experience
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