Associate Director, Data Science & AI Initiative

This job is with London Business School, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community. Please do not contact the recruiter directly.

Summary

We are looking for a engaging, experienced and driven individual to join our new Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Initiative as Associate Director. The Associate Director is instrumental to the success and sustainability of the Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Initiative. In collaboration with the Academic Co-Directors the role holder sets the strategic agenda for the Initiative and oversee all operational frameworks to realise the Initiative's ambitions. A priority will be to work closely with the Academic Co-Directors and Advancement to develop funding packages and contribute to fundraising applications related to the Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Initiative. The Data Science & Artificial Intelligence Initiative at London Business School is the School's interdisciplinary hub for understanding how data, analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming business, management education, and society. Co-directed by Professors Nicos Savva and Keyvan Vakili, the Initiative brings together world-class faculty across Strategy, Operations, Economics, Marketing, Finance, Accounting, and Organisational Behaviour to deliver a uniquely holistic business perspective on AI and data science. At the heart of the Initiative is a commitment to driving impact through three strategic pillars: Research Excellence Outreach and Engagement Advancing LBS's Mission The Initiative is not only a platform for academic collaboration and business impact, but also a catalyst for innovation and thought leadership within LBS and beyond.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead the developing of and then implementing strategic and operational plans for the Data Science & AI Initiative to achieve the department's strategic goals and objectives in respect of (i) academic research, (ii) collaboration and communities of practice, and (iii) shaping business education.
• Communicate the Data Science & AI Initiative's strategic plan throughout the School, ensuring high levels of awareness and engagement.
• Develop specific and appropriate KPIs for the Initiative. These KPIs will provide evidence of the impact being achieved.
• Participate as a senior leader, representing the Data Science & AI Initiative, to influence the strategic direction of the School.
• Lead a multi-functional team which involves research (pre and post doctoral candidates) and professional staff.
• Anticipate and identify all potential business risks and oversee risk management, compliance and governance.
• In consultation with relevant departments and the Academic Co-Directors, to deliver reports on the Initiative's activities.
• Represent the School as required to a wide range of external audiences and stakeholders, proactively promoting the Data Science & AI Initiative and the School, its programmes and opportunities.
• Closely work with the Academic Co-Directors to identify and establish Data Science & AI Initiative key research themes in order to build relationships with research partner organisations.

Ideal Candidate

Experience of managing internal relationships at the most senior levels with a proven ability to influence and shape the broader agenda in the School. Strong influencing and stakeholder management skills, able to influence other senior leaders. Strong experience leading people, managing high-performing teams and creating motivating and inclusive work environments. Ability to maintain a strong connection between diverse departments. Experience of leading delivery within a complex organisation with multiple competing demands. Strong commercial acumen. Excellent leadership and management experience gained while leading an initiative/department in a leading globally-oriented institution. Ability to think strategically. Understanding of latest thinking and practice in business and development. Experience of having successfully undertaken outreach activities, including building a brand or raising funds for a cause.

Duration : 12 month FTC

Start date : August 2025

Salary : Competitive