Director of Technology AI
Digital Catapult is a UK deep tech innovation organisation that accelerates the practical application of advanced technologies. It supports startups, industry, government, investors and academia through research and development, consultancy, acceleration programmes, testbed facilities and collaborative innovation.
Funding
Investors
Projects
About Digital Catapult
Digital Catapult bridges the gap between deep tech research and real-world deployment. Its work spans artificial intelligence, quantum computing, advanced networks, distributed systems, immersive technologies and the Internet of Things. The organisation provides bespoke software and data systems, platform engineering, technology and innovation consultancy, acceleration programmes, membership, access to specialised laboratories and testbeds, and ecosystem convening. It works with startups and scaleups, large businesses, government and public-sector organisations, investors, and academic institutions across the UK.
Skills
About the Role
You will lead the AI portfolio, define and drive technology roadmaps, and deliver collaborative research, development, and technology translation programmes. You will build partnerships with academia, industry, government, and innovators; secure funding; represent the organisation at public events; oversee programme delivery; and mentor AI teams. You will also conduct horizon scanning, evaluate emerging technologies, and support practical AI adoption.
Requirements
- Demonstrable leadership and thought leadership in AI.
- Track record of building strategic partnerships across academia, industry, and government.
- Experience defining and delivering technology strategy, horizon scanning, roadmaps, and research agendas.
- Understanding of agentic AI, AI assurance, neuro-symbolic AI, and post-LLM approaches.
- Experience securing collaborative research and innovation funding, including grant-funded programmes.
- Commercial awareness and experience identifying technology translation and commercialisation opportunities.
- Significant experience leading AI research, development, and innovation programmes.
- Experience leading multidisciplinary technical teams in a research, innovation, technology, or R&D environment.
- Experience building teams and AI capability.
- Ability to complete Baseline Personnel Security Standard clearance before employment.
Responsibilities
- Lead the AI portfolio of work.
- Define and drive the technology roadmap for AI and related areas.
- Direct and enable AI research and development programmes.
- Secure funding through research and development projects and support commercial opportunities.
- Build and maintain relationships with innovators, startups, scaleups, government, academia, and industry partners.
- Represent the organisation at industry events, conferences, and public engagements.
- Oversee the execution and evaluation of programme, project, and technology-exploitation activities.
- Lead, mentor, coach, and guide AI team members.
- Conduct horizon scanning and develop AI technology roadmaps and plans.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays, and 3 days between Christmas and New Year.
- Double-matched pension up to 10% of salary.
- Discretionary company bonus.
- 4% of salary toward selected benefits, including a health cash plan, private medical insurance, holiday purchase, or pension contributions.
- E-Vehicle Scheme.
- Cycle2Work.
- Tech Scheme.
- Gym discounts.
- Give As You Earn.
- PerkPal.
- Life insurance worth four times salary.
- Employee assistance programme and financial wellbeing advice.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
- Hybrid working, with office attendance two days per week for some roles.
- Company social events and free office snacks.