At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead IT Engineering, Data & AI for regional aviation hubs while enjoying a tropical lifestyle.
- Company: Join a dynamic client focused on innovative aviation solutions.
- Benefits: Relocation allowance, competitive salary, and a warm climate.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a vibrant, collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aviation tech while living in beautiful Cairns.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in Engineering, Data, or AI required.
The predicted salary is between 121500 - 148500 $ per year.
Location: Melbourne (Relocation to Cairns required)
Employment Type: Permanent
Summary
We are looking for a Head of IT Engineering, Data & AI to lead the IT Engineering, Data & AI for a client specialising in regional Aviation Hubs. This role involves everything from new IT product builds, data security, vendor management to the introduction of new AI strategies & products.
We are looking for someone with experience in senior strategic leadership roles in Engineering, Data or AI (preferably a combination!) to relocate north to Cairns. This is an opportunity to work on the strategy for a client spanning across regional aviation hubs servicing 2000+ flights a month whilst still remaining close to the hands-on.
Key Criteria
- Extensive experience in application development and data-related fields at SLT Level
- Proven track record leading Agile software engineering teams and implementing Agile/DevOps transformations
- Deep experience with modern programming languages, frameworks, and architectural patterns (e.g., microservices, event-driven design)
- Demonstrated experience with AI/ML integration, API management, and enterprise data platforms (e.g., Snowflake, Tableau)
- Strong understanding of data governance, cyber security, and compliance frameworks
- Experience managing third-party vendors, outsourced technical delivery, and SLA/contract performance
- Excellent stakeholder management, strategic leadership, and communication skills
- Relevant certifications in Azure, Agile (Scrum/SAFe), or DevOps are highly desirable
Key Relationships
- Reports to: Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
- Internal Stakeholders: IT Security, Business Unit Leaders, Cross-functional Engineering & Data Teams
- External Stakeholders: Third-party development vendors, technology partners, and managed service providers
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary technical authority across all developed application assets, enterprise integrations, and data architecture
- Define and drive the execution of the overarching Application, AI, and Data strategy
- Provide L2+ support for core integrations, in-house developed applications, AI models, storage, and reporting platforms
- Function as the owner of ITIL release management and lead the implementation of Agile/Scrum practices and CI/CD pipelines to accelerate software delivery
- Oversee vendor relationships, contracts, and outsourced technical engagements to ensure high delivery quality aligned with internal standards
- Lead the end-to-end systems testing framework, including SIT, UAT, and test scenario execution
- Establish and govern the enterprise AI and data governance framework in alignment with regulatory and security guidelines
- Partner closely with IT Security to build secure, compliant applications and respond to cyber security threats using risk policies
- Conduct technical design evaluations, code reviews, and provide final architectural approvals
- Proactively manage technical and operational risks using established risk management and safety frameworks
Head of IT Engineering, Data & AI in Melbourne employer: Randstad NV
Randstad is an exceptional employer, recognised as a Great Place to Work and a Forbes World's Best Employer, fostering a culture of collective growth and success. Located in Canberra, our team thrives in a supportive environment that prioritises employee development, offering clear career advancement pathways, competitive compensation, and unique benefits such as extra leave for service and wellness programs. Join us to be part of a close-knit, goal-oriented team that values ambition and inclusivity while making a meaningful impact in the recruitment industry.
