We are seeking an experienced Senior Data & AI Strategy Manager to lead the development and delivery of our data and AI strategy.

This is a senior, high-impact role that will shape how data and AI are used to drive business value, innovation, and industry collaboration.

You will be responsible for defining and implementing a forward-looking data and AI strategy aligned with organisational goals and wider industry objectives. Working closely with senior stakeholders and external partners, you will lead data-led and AI initiatives, including delivery through our open data commitments.

A key part of the role is fostering a strong culture of data governance, privacy, and responsible AI, ensuring compliance is embedded in practical, business-friendly ways.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of the organisation’s Data and AI Strategy, working collaboratively with business and technical stakeholders.
• Drive the delivery of data-led and AI initiatives internally and with industry partners.
• Establish and maintain an effective data management framework, including policies for data security, data sharing, data collection, and data ownership.
• Support the business in building a strong culture of data privacy and information management.
• Coordinate and lead a community of data owners across the organisation, encouraging knowledge sharing, best practice, and innovation in AI technologies.
• Develop, implement, and oversee data and AI strategies and policies that align with organisational objectives.
• Enhance data and AI capabilities by improving the accessibility, availability, and use of data, insights, and information to support decision-making.

Person Specification

• Proven experience leading AI or machine learning teams in a production environment.
• Strong working knowledge of data platforms, architecture, modelling, and data engineering.
• Experience with data extraction, transformation, and load (ETL) tools and the effective application of their capabilities.
• Ability to translate complex data and AI concepts into clear, actionable strategies for non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and collaboration skills, with experience working across multidisciplinary team

If this sounds like you, we encourage you to explore the role profile and learn more.

Please note: We may close this advert early if we receive a strong response, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

As well as working with a fantastic team you will also receive: 

• Final salary pension
• Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you/spouse/partner/dependents
• Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)
• 30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
• 10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators

Be You. With Us.

At Avanti West Coast, we believe our strength comes from the unique perspectives, experiences and backgrounds of our people. We are proud to build a workplace where diversity is embraced, and everyone is supported to thrive.

We welcome individuals of all races, religions, ages, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations and abilities. Our goal is to reflect the communities we serve and create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

When you join Avanti West Coast, you become part of a close-knit team that encourages authenticity. We want you to bring your whole self to work. No need to change who you are to fit in. Your individuality is what makes us better.

We celebrate it, we respect it and we put it to great use.

Our Avanti West Coast Values

Passionate- We foster a culture where everyone is driven by our mission and are dedicated to achieving it together.

Committed- We are committed to safety, reliability and delivering the very best for our customers, our colleagues, stakeholders and the industry.

Integrity- We believe in taking responsibility for our reactions and decisions to ensure we do the right thing even when it is difficult to do and hold others accountable for doing the same.

Ambitious- We strive to be the best and are curious to new ways of working within our business and the wider industry.

Authentic- We are genuine, caring and grounded individuals that operate and communicate with openness, trust and clarity.