Overview
The NHS Business Services Authority is building a new, dedicated AI function and is searching for an AI Lead to build it, shape it, and set its strategic direction from day one.
This is a career-defining opportunity to create a capability with strong backing, diverse stakeholders, and the ability to deliver value across a system that touches millions of lives. From prescriptions and dental services to digital workforce systems, NHSBSA manages £100bn+ in spend and plays a pivotal role in ensuring the NHS runs efficiently, transparently and sustainably. Data and AI sit at the heart of their future strategy.
What do we offer?
* 27 days leave (increasing with length of service) plus 8 bank holidays
* Flexible working – we are happy to discuss options such as compressed hours
* Hybrid working model – we are currently working largely remotely
* Active wellbeing and inclusion networks
* NHS Car lease scheme
* Access to a wide range of benefits and high‑street discounts
Main duties of the job
The AI Lead will be responsible for shaping and delivering how artificial intelligence is used across NHSBSA to improve services, support staff and deliver better outcomes for users.
You will identify and prioritise opportunities where AI can make a real difference, working closely with colleagues across digital, data, policy and operations. You will lead the delivery of AI solutions from idea to implementation, ensuring they are safe, transparent and aligned with organisational goals.
The role will provide clear leadership across a portfolio of AI initiatives, balancing short‑term improvements with longer‑term strategic change. You will ensure benefits are measured and understood, and that learning is shared across the organisation.
You will lead and develop the AI team, setting direction, supporting learning and creating a positive, inclusive environment where people can do their best work. This includes planning future capability, overseeing training and managing the AI budget responsibly.
As the AI lead, you will set standards and guidance so AI is used consistently and ethically. You will work with senior leaders, partners and suppliers to build trust, encourage adoption and embed AI into wider transformation activity. You will represent Data and AI at governance forums and contribute to the overall leadership and direction of digital, data and technology at NHSBSA.
AI strategy, delivery and impact
1. Leads the end‑to‑end AI delivery lifecycle, identifying and scoping high‑value opportunities and overseeing delivery of ethical, explainable solutions aligned with organisational goals.
2. Oversees the AI roadmap, ensuring a balanced portfolio of short‑term wins and long‑term strategic investments.
3. Leads cross‑functional teams to design, architect and deliver AI solutions, clarifying roles, timelines and outcomes.
4. Produces well‑written and technically sound project reports and reviews reports authored by others.
5. Drives awareness and adoption of AI through compelling communication and storytelling.
6. Develops and maintains the NHSBSA AI strategy, ensuring alignment with national policy, emerging technologies and organisational priorities.
7. Conducts horizon scanning of emerging technology and its impact on the business.
AI team
1. Leads on recruitment, mentorship and continued professional development of the core AI team, setting clear goals and celebrating success.
2. Supports pastoral care through collaboration with a People Manager.
3. Designs, sources and delivers all AI core training and development programmes in line with NHSBSA, DDaT and Data Strategies.
4. Plans long‑term and short‑term development for the team, in accordance with the business plan.
5. Manages the AI financial budget in accordance with NHSBSA policies, financial regulations and legislative requirements.
6. Ensures AI is embedded in wider digital transformation efforts.
Takes responsibility for continuous professional development, maintaining expertise in AI strategy, trends, technologies and risks across the wider health and care system.
Contributes to the leadership of Data & AI, including the development of the strategic direction of the service, Data and DDaT, in line with the NHSBSA strategy.
AI leadership, governance and influence
1. Acts as the technical lead for AI, influencing colleagues across teams and identifying opportunities in existing projects.
2. Provides overall leadership of the development and implementation of AI governance frameworks, standards and policies to ensure consistent, ethical and effective use of AI.
3. Represents the Director of Data and AI at relevant boards and committees, providing reports and presentations to leadership.
4. Functions as a senior member of the Data and AI leadership team and the wider DDaT SMT, working collaboratively across all heads of service and senior managers.
5. Fosters a culture of responsible innovation and continuous learning, enabling experimentation while maintaining alignment with governing frameworks and ethical standards.
6. Supports capability building across the organisation by identifying skills gaps and leading AI training initiatives.
7. Engages stakeholders across NHSBSA and the wider health and care system to build understanding, trust and support for AI adoption.
8. Leads supplier, contract and stakeholder engagement regarding sourcing AI solutions and resources from external organisations.
9. Shapes national and cross‑government AI policy by representing NHSBSA in external forums, working groups and strategic partnerships.
10. Builds strong relationships with academia, industry and government to leverage external expertise and stay at the forefront of AI developments.
11. Deputises for the Director of Data and AI as required.
About NHSBSA
We manage the NHS Pension scheme, process prescription payments and more. Our services are used by NHS organisations, contractors and the public, and we strive to design them around customer needs and place people at the heart of our organisation.
Legal Notice
All employees are covered by equal opportunity legislation and the NHS follows a strict policy of non‑discrimination.
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