Head - Data & AI

Role Overview

Head – Data & AI at Aldar Education, Abu Dhabi. This critical leadership role drives the organization's AI strategy, data strategy, governance, and analytics initiatives while overseeing the entire AI and data lifecycle to ensure effective management, utilization, and protection of data assets to support business objectives.

Company Overview

Aldar Education is the leading education group in Abu Dhabi, providing inclusive and innovative learning that inspires and empowers communities. Starting with one school and 250 students in 2007, the organization has grown to support over 38,000 students across 28 schools with a network of almost 5,000 educators representing over 100 nationalities. Aldar Education offers a broad range of curricula and ancillary services from nursery through adult education, including a Teacher Training Academy. The organization works collaboratively to empower the next generation to shape the future, directly supporting Abu Dhabi's government educational goals and guided by the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 plan to build a sustainable knowledge-based economy through premium education.

Role Purpose

This role spearheads the organization's AI and data strategy, governance, and utilization efforts to unlock actionable insights, drive innovation, and create tangible value for the organization and its stakeholders. The position leverages data as a strategic asset to enable the organization to stay competitive, adapt to market trends, and achieve long-term objectives through informed decision-making and data-driven innovation.

Key Responsibilities

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 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).
• 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 organization 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 such as GDPR and CCPA related to data management and privacy.
• Work with and demonstrate understanding of School Information Systems, in particular iSams and PowerSchool.
• Implement data security measures and protocols to protect sensitive data assets from unauthorized access, breaches, and cyber threats by coordinating with Infra & Data Teams.

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.

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.

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 and fulfill 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 OS firewall or Antivirus.
• Restrict use to authorized purposes, protect access accounts, privileges and associated passwords.
• Accept accountability of user accounts and maintain confidentiality.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, or a related field.
• Advanced degree such as Master's or MBA preferred.
• 10 to 15 years plus of industry experience.
• 8 years in Data and AI position or functional experience.

Skills & Competencies

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

Additional Information

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

Aldar Education is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization is mindful of its national development strategy and encourages UAE Nationals to join the 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.