Senior AI & Transformation Strategy Lead

Senior AI & Transformation Strategy Lead
6-12 month Day Rate Contract

MCS Group is recruiting a Senior AI & Transformation Strategy Lead for an organisation undertaking a strategic review of its capital investment programme.

This is an opportunity to shape how AI, data and digital technology can improve investment decisions, productivity, cost management, risk and programme delivery.

Working closely with executive teams and senior operational stakeholders, you will assess the current programme, identify opportunities and develop a clear plan for delivery. The role requires someone who can connect business strategy with practical applications of AI and take opportunities through business case development, pilots and implementation.

There will be some travel involved to the client site from time to time in the UK.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Reviewing a complex capital investment portfolio to identify opportunities for AI and digital transformation.

• Developing an AI and data strategy aligned with business priorities and operational challenges.

• Assessing potential applications for generative AI, agentic technologies and advanced analytics.

• Building business cases and investment proposals with clear benefits and success measures.

• Prioritising opportunities, shaping pilots and developing an implementation roadmap.

• Leading collaboration across business, technology and external delivery teams.

• Supporting the process, organisational and behavioural changes needed for successful adoption.

The successful candidate will bring:

• Significant senior experience in strategy, business transformation or digital transformation.

• Practical experience developing and implementing AI initiatives.

• A track record of taking concepts through to measurable business outcomes.

• Experience building new AI or digital capabilities, ideally from the ground up.

• Strong commercial judgement and experience developing business cases.

• The ability to influence and challenge executive teams and senior programme leaders.

• Sufficient technical knowledge to assess proposed solutions and work confidently with data scientists, engineers and architects.

• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and organisational change.

Experience within utilities, water, energy, infrastructure, engineering or another asset-intensive environment would be highly desirable, particularly where this involves large capital programmes.

This position would suit a senior transformation leader who combines strategic thinking, practical AI knowledge and a strong record of delivery.

To discuss the opportunity in confidence, please apply with an up-to-date CV.