Executive 1 Band - TRP $212,912 - $220,000

Lead the governance, strategy and responsible adoption of data and artificial intelligence for one of Australia's most recognised capital cities.

About the role

This is a rare opportunity to shape how one of Australia's most recognised cities governs, manages and enables the use of data and artificial intelligence to deliver better outcomes for the organisation and community.

As the Head of Data and AI, you will provide enterprise leadership for the City of Melbourne's data operations, data governance, spatial services and artificial intelligence capabilities. Reporting to the Director Enterprise Technology Services, you will lead the development and delivery of the City's Data and AI Strategy, ensuring data is secure, trusted, well-governed and available to support organisational decision-making and digital transformation.

A key focus of the role is leading the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence across the organisation. You will establish and oversee the governance frameworks, policies, standards, controls and risk management practices that enable AI to be implemented safely, ethically and effectively, while providing expert advice to executives and business leaders on emerging opportunities and obligations.

This is a highly influential leadership role that will work across the organisation and with external partners to build enterprise capability, strengthen governance, drive innovation and position the City of Melbourne as a leader in responsible data and AI practices

A little more about the role

• Lead the strategic direction and governance of enterprise data operations, spatial services and artificial intelligence capabilities across the City of Melbourne.
• Establish and oversee the governance framework for AI, including policies, standards, risk management, ethics and assurance practices that support responsible adoption across the organisation.
• Develop and implement the City of Melbourne's Data and AI Strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and future digital transformation initiatives.
• Lead the Data Centre of Excellence and foster a culture of innovation, accountability and excellence while building organisational capability in data and AI.
• Represent the City of Melbourne across industry, government and professional networks, building partnerships that strengthen innovation and thought leadership.
• Lead a high-performing multidisciplinary team while fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement.

Why join Team Melbourne?

Located on the traditional lands of the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation, Melbourne is globally recognised as one of the most liveable, diverse, and dynamic cities.

At the heart of it all is the City of Melbourne – a passionate, purpose-driven organisation where your work truly matters. As part of Team Melbourne, you'll help deliver what's most important to the people who live, work, study, visit and invest in our great city.

We're proud champions of diversity, committed to continuous improvement, and driven by a shared vision for a vibrant and sustainable future.

This is more than just a role – it's your chance to make a real impact, contribute to something bigger, and shape Melbourne's future alongside a collaborative and forward-thinking team.

About you

You are a strategic and influential leader with a strong track record of delivering enterprise-wide data and AI capability within complex organisations. You combine technical credibility with exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, enabling you to influence at the highest levels and build confidence across diverse groups.

You bring a strong understanding of contemporary data governance practices and a passion for ensuring artificial intelligence is adopted responsibly, ethically and effectively.

You are future-focused, commercially aware and passionate about leveraging data and emerging technologies to solve complex challenges, drive innovation and improve organisational performance.

Most importantly, you are a collaborative leader who inspires others, leads with integrity, and can navigate complexity while maintaining a clear focus on delivering meaningful outcomes.

What your experience might look like - Key Selection Criteria

• Demonstrated success leading enterprise data, analytics and AI strategies within large, complex organisations.
• Significant experience establishing and overseeing data governance, AI governance, risk and assurance frameworks
• Experience influencing executive leaders and governing bodies on strategic technology, data and digital transformation initiatives.
• Deep understanding of contemporary data management, governance, analytics and responsible AI practices.
• Proven ability to build strategic partnerships and engage effectively with government, industry, community and technology stakeholders.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to translate complex concepts into compelling business outcomes.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications in technology, business, economics, mathematics, statistics or a related discipline.

Benefits of working with us

• Attractive remuneration & benefits: Excellent pay package with a range of exciting benefits. Flexible working, study assistance & other great corporate discounts.
• Excellent leave entitlements: Enjoy up to 20 weeks of fully paid parental leave for primary carers, in addition to the government-funded parental leave, with no waiting period to access. Part-time equivalents are also available for added flexibility.
• Career progression: Career development support and opportunities to learn new skills within a creative and exciting environment.
• Work-life balance and hybrid working: We support flexible hours, alternative work arrangements, and hybrid work-from-home options.

How to apply

We'd love to hear how you can make an impact in this role! As part of your application, you will be required to:

• Attach your updated resume
• Include a cover letter (max one page) outlining your relevant experience and why you're a great fit for this role.
• Submit your application no later than 11:45pm on Sunday, 20 September, 2026.

A few important things to note – don't miss out!

• Applications must be submitted online. Unfortunately, we can't accept applications via email, so please be sure to apply through the official job link provided.
• Apply early! This role may close sooner than the listed closing date if we find the right candidate — so don't wait to get your application in.
• We are a child safe organisation. The City of Melbourne has a zero tolerance for child abuse. All employees undergo thorough safety screening, including a Police Check and a Working with Children Check.

Need more info?

Refer to the position description below or contact Naarah Haime, (Acting) Talent Aquisition Team Leader, N***@***********

Inclusion matters

We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from all cultural and linguistic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTIQA+ individuals, and people of all ages and faith backgrounds.

We provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to support all applicants. If you require any adjustments, please let us know via the application prompts or inform our Careers team if you're contacted for an interview.