The Head of Artificial Intelligence leads the university’s new AI@Kent team and is responsible for shaping and implementing the University’s institution-wide approach to artificial intelligence. This role provides strategic and operational leadership on the ethical, inclusive and effective use of AI across education, research and professional services, ensuring Kent takes a proactive, values‑led approach to innovation.
A professional services leader, the Head of AI acts as the University’s expert advisor on AI adoption and governance. Reporting directly to the Director of Information Technology Services, you will coordinate cross‑institutional initiatives, oversee AI governance frameworks, and help Kent mitigate institutional risks associated with unmanaged AI use – including data protection concerns, academic integrity challenges, and reputational exposure. You will work with colleagues across academic schools, central directorates and executive leadership to build long‑term, responsible capability in this rapidly evolving area.
This role is full‑time and for a fixed period of two and a half years.
Responsibilities
* Spearheading the development and delivery of Kent’s institutional AI strategy and aligning it with strategic ambitions in education, research, digital transformation and operational effectiveness.
* Providing visible leadership and authoritative guidance on the opportunities, risks and governance implications of emerging AI technologies across all areas of university activity.
* Overseeing the delivery of key strategic projects, such as supporting the adoption of AI platforms for staff and students, ensuring on‑time delivery, effective evaluation, and alignment with institutional goals.
* Leading the development of governance frameworks, institutional policies and legal compliance structures for the ethical use of AI, working closely with Information Governance, Legal and sector partners.
* Developing strong and effective relationships with academic schools to embed AI into research, teaching, assessment and curriculum design, ensuring alignment with Kent’s values, academic standards and student success goals.
Qualifications
* Deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges AI presents to higher education, especially generative AI.
* Ability to think and plan strategically, articulate priorities and imperatives, and contribute to the delivery of strategic objectives and in‑year needs.
* Substantial experience leading strategic or institutional projects in AI and/or digital education.
* Demonstrable leadership experience, including line management and cross‑team collaboration.
* Experience engaging staff, students or external partners in the co‑design of digital services or educational innovations.
Benefits
* Hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs).
* 43 days’ leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part‑time staff).
* Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions.
* Corporate employee‑funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health.
The University of Kent values diversity and equality at all levels.
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