Head of Business Technology - Automation & AI

Head of Business Technology (Automation & AI Focus) Location: London Reporting to: Director of Technology The Opportunity We are seeking a forward-thinking Head of Business Technology to lead a step-change in how automation, AI, and data-driven solutions transform business operations. This is a high-impact leadership role focused on building and scaling an automation-first capability that drives efficiency, enhances decision-making, and unlocks measurable business value. You will operate at the intersection of strategy and delivery, shaping a modern automation roadmap while remaining hands-on in implementing solutions that simplify, streamline, and optimise core business processes. What You’ll Be Responsible For Automation Strategy & Transformation • Define and deliver a business-wide automation and AI strategy aligned to organisational goals • Identify high-value opportunities to digitise and automate processes across functions such as Finance, HR, Operations, and Business Development • Champion a culture of continuous improvement, leveraging automation as a core driver of efficiency and innovation Building an Automation Capability • Establish and scale a modern automation and data capability, including tooling, standards, and delivery frameworks • Design and implement solutions across RPA, workflow automation, AI, and data platforms • Build internal engineering capability, reducing reliance on third parties while maintaining a pragmatic, value-driven approach End-to-End Solution Delivery • Lead the full lifecycle of automation initiatives—from process discovery and design through to deployment and optimisation • Develop and manage a prioritised pipeline of automation projects based on ROI and business impact • Ensure solutions are scalable, maintainable, and aligned with enterprise architecture Stakeholder Engagement • Partner with senior business leaders to understand challenges and translate them into automation opportunities • Act as a trusted advisor, clearly articulating the business value of automation and AI • Facilitate workshops, design sessions, and innovation initiatives to co-create solutions Technology & Systems Oversight • Oversee core business systems and ensure seamless integration with automation solutions • Manage vendor relationships, tooling decisions, and platform evolution • Stay ahead of emerging technologies in automation, workflow, and AI Leadership & Team Development • Build and lead a high-performing, multidisciplinary team (e.g. automation engineers, analysts, architects) • Foster a hands-on, delivery-focused culture with strong engineering discipline • Develop skills, standards, and best practices to support long-term capability growth Governance, Value & Adoption • Define metrics to measure success and track ROI of automation initiatives • Ensure strong governance, security, and compliance across all solutions • Drive adoption through effective change management, training, and engagement What We’re Looking For • Proven experience leading automation and AI transformation at scale, with clear business outcomes • Strong hands-on expertise in automation technologies (RPA, workflow tools, AI solutions) • Experience building automation capabilities, including tooling, standards, and teams • Track record of influencing senior stakeholders and delivering in complex organisations • Deep understanding of business systems (e.g. ERP, CRM, HR systems) and integrations • A pragmatic, delivery-focused mindset with the ability to balance innovation and commercial value • Comfortable operating in lean, fast-paced environments with a high degree of autonomy