Position: Head of AI and Data

Reports To: CEO, Matrix Reporting: Head of IT

Function: IT

Location: Melbourne

Job Classification: Senior Manager

Critical Infrastructure role: No

Purpose

Ensure secure and governed use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and enterprise data as a first principle across the organisation. Lead implementation of AI and Pacific Hydro enterprise knowledge systems to enhance operational efficiency, reduce low-value repetitive work, strengthen internal controls and compliance, and drive the company's transition towards an AI-enabled operating model.

Key Responsibilities:

AI Security & Governance

• Establish and maintain an AI governance framework, covering cyber security, data privacy, acceptable use, model risk, and usage policies
• Ensure the AI governance framework is communicated across the organisation, including training required
• Define and ensure compliance with policies on the use of external AI tools
• Ensure protection of sensitive business data in AI applications
• Identify, monitor and manage risks related to AI outputs (e.g. inaccuracy, bias, misuse)

Corporate Knowledge & Data Foundation

• Establish and maintain a structured enterprise knowledge system to support AI applications
• Develop and manage knowledge maps across key domains (e.g. contracts, operations, finance, projects)
• Reduce manual effort in information gathering, structuring, drafting, processing and reporting
• Define ownership, governance, and lifecycle management of critical data and knowledge assets

AI-enabled Process Re-engineering& Compliance

• Identify business processes with high optimisation potential to leverage and benefit from AI
• Redesign workflows by utilising AI where appropriate, focusing on simplification. Elimination of non-value-adding steps and reduction of low-value manual work.
• Embed control, assurance, and compliance requirements into redesigned processes, including automated monitoring, anomaly detection, and policy enforcement
• Ensure appropriate change management is implemented, including training where required
• Drive adoption and ensure sustainability of redesigned processes

AI Use Case Identification & Delivery

• Identify high-impact business scenarios where AI can improve efficiency, reduce repetitive manual work, and strengthen control (e.g. legal, contract management, report generation, procurement, and administrative processes)
• Work with business units to refine use cases, align priorities, and define clear outcomes
• Drive implementation of selected initiatives and ensure delivery of practical, measurable results

Technology Collaboration & Value Realisation

• Translate business needs into AI and technical requirements, ensuring alignment with business priorities
• Work closely with IT and external vendors to deliver scalable and secure AI solutions.
• Ensure AI initiatives deliver measurable business outcomes (e.g. efficiency improvement, cost reduction, risk mitigation)
• Track, evaluate, and report the impact of AI initiatives to Senior Management
• Support the evolution of IT capabilities towards AI-enabled operations in alignment with business needs

Essential Criteria:

AI & Data Expertise

• Solid understanding of AI technologies and their practical business applications
• Strong knowledge of data governance, data security, and model risk management
• Ability to translate business needs into AI/data/technology solutions

Execution & Delivery

• Ability to drive execution and ensure delivery of measurable outcomes
• Strong outcome orientation, with focus on business impact rather than technical output
• High level of ownership and accountability

Stakeholder & Influence

• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to align business and IT priorities

Judgement & Mindset

• Willingness to challenge existing processes and drive change
• Strong judgement in managing trade-offs between efficiency, risk, and control
• Balanced mindset on AI: able to leverage AI as a practical tool while maintaining appropriate human oversight

Knowledge, experience (including qualification) and skill

Knowledge and experience:

• Professional qualifications in Computer Science and Information Security

Experience and Skills

• 15+ years of experience in data, digital transformation, or related fields
• 3+ years of experience in AI related fields
• Demonstrated track record of leading cross-functional transformation projects
• Experience leading with IT teams and external vendors to deliver technology solutions
• Experience in process optimisation, internal control, risk, or compliance-related initiatives