Head - Data & AI

About This Role

Job Description Aldar Education is currently seeking an outstanding Head – Data & AI.

As the leading education group in Abu Dhabi, we provide inclusive and innovative learning that inspires and empowers communities. We offer a range of brands for all learners in our community, from nursery through to adult education. We offer the broadest choice of curricula. In the largest number of locations in Abu Dhabi.

Starting with one school and 250 students in 2007, Aldar Education has grown into a highly sought after education provider, now supporting over 38,000 students in 28 schools and a growing network of almost 5000 educators, with over 100 nationalities, offering a wide range of curricula and ancillary services such as a Teacher Training Academy.

Working collaboratively, our education network’s purpose is to empower the next generation to shape our future, directly supporting the educational goals of Abu Dhabi’s government. Today, Aldar Education’s efforts are guided by the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 plan, which aims to build a sustainable knowledge-based economy through premium education.

The Head of Data and AI plays a critical leadership role in driving the organization's AI strategy, data strategy, governance, and analytics initiatives. Responsible for overseeing the entire AI and data lifecycle to ensure the effective management, utilization, and protection of data assets to support business objectives.

This individual spearheads the organization's AI and data strategy, governance, and utilization efforts. Responsible for overseeing all aspects of AI implementation, data management, analytics, operational reporting, data analytics use cases and innovation, the role aims to harness the power of data to inform decision-making, enhance operational efficiency, and fuel business growth. This leader strives to unlock actionable insights, drive innovation, and create tangible value for the organization and its stakeholders.

In essence, the role of the head of data and AI is to leverage data as a strategic asset, enabling the organization to stay competitive, adapt to market trends, and achieve its long-term objectives through informed decision-making and data-driven innovation. The role will also draw, lead and implement AI strategies and solutions across the organisation.

Responsibilities Main Duties Stakeholder Engagement and Communication: Collaborate with executive leadership, department heads, and other stakeholders to understand data needs and priorities. Communicate the value of data-driven insights and initiatives to stakeholders at all levels of the organization, including through presentations, reports, and dashboards. Serve as a subject matter expert on data-related matters and contribute to strategic discussions and decision-making processes.

Data Analytics and Insights Lead data analytics initiatives to derive actionable insights and drive data-informed decision-making across the organization. Collaborate with business units to identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and liaise with the Group Technology Data Team to develop data-driven solutions to address business challenges and opportunities.

AI Strategy and Implementation Lead AI solutions in the organisation and ensure Aldar is the pioneer in this space delivering outcomes and transforming classes for students.

Data Management and Operations Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) related to data management and privacy. Should have experience of working with and understanding of School Information systems, in particular iSams and PowerSchool.

Data Culture and Adoption Promote a data-driven culture and mindset across the organization, advocating for the use of data to inform decision-making and drive business outcomes. Provide training and education on data management, analytics, and best practices to empower employees to use data in their roles effectively. Encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing among departments to leverage data as a strategic asset and drive innovation

Specific Duties Technology Evaluation and Integration Stay updated on emerging trends and innovations in data management and analytics to drive continuous improvement and innovation related to the field of education

Risk Management and Compliance Assess data-related risks and vulnerabilities and develop strategies to mitigate those risks. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and best practices related to data privacy, security, and ethical use of data. Implement data security measures and protocols to protect sensitive data assets from unauthorized access, breaches, and cyber threats by coordinating with Infra & Data Teams

Performance Monitoring and Reporting Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to track the effectiveness of data initiatives and investments. Monitor and analyze data performance metrics, identifying trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement. Prepare regular reports and presentations for executive leadership and stakeholders on the impact of data initiatives on business outcomes and strategic goals

Information Security Responsibilities

• Comply with Aldar Information Security Policies
• Be aware of and fulfil their information security responsibilities.
• Ensure whoever handles sensitive company information has taken the Security Awareness Training
• Know how to report a security incident (to IT ServiceDesk or InfoSec).
• Not Disable his/her OS firewall and/or Antivirus
• Restrict use to authorized purposes, protect access accounts, privileges and associated passwords.
• Accept accountability of his/her user accounts and maintain confidentiality.

Qualifications Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, Data Science, Information Systems, or a related field; advanced degree (e.g., Master's, MBA) preferred.

Minimum Experience

• Industry Experience (No. of years): 10 to 15 years plus
• Position/functional experience (No. of years): 8 years in Data and AI.

Job Specific Knowledge & Skills

• Stakeholder Management and Communication
• Technical Proficiency in Data
• Data Analytics and Insights
• Data Management and Governance
• Leadership and Strategic Vision

What We Offer Aldar Education offers an attractive remuneration package including medical & life insurance, flights, and education benefits. Our employees have access to a wide network of professionals and opportunities to lead and contribute to training others as well as developing themselves.

Aldar Education is keen to hear from like-minded, forward-thinking leaders who would welcome the challenges and opportunities that we have to offer.

This job description is not all-inclusive. Aldar Education reserves the right to amend this job description at any time. We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are also mindful of our national development strategy and encourage UAE Nationals to join our company.

Aldar Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Offers of appointment are subject to satisfactory references and police clearance.