Office of Digitalisation, Data & AI - Director (Chief Data Officer)

[What the role is]

The Director, Office of Digitalisation, Data and AI (ODA) is a senior institutional leader responsible for driving the organisation’s Digitalisation, Data, and Artificial Intelligence Strategy and execution. Concurrently serving as the Chief Data Officer (CDO), this role provides strategic leadership in data governance, enterprise data platforms, analytics, AI governance, and digital enablement.

The role oversees the establishment of robust institutional frameworks, platforms, and capabilities that enable trusted data use, responsible AI adoption, and meaningful digital transformation across the organisation. The Director works closely with senior management, government agencies, industry partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with national directives, regulatory requirements, and organisational strategic priorities.

We are seeking a visionary yet hands-on leader with deep expertise in data, analytics, AI, and digital governance, and a strong track record in leading cross-functional teams, enterprise-scale initiatives, and stakeholder engagement in complex environments.

[What you will be working on]

Institutional Data Governance and Chief Data Officer Responsibilities

Establish and operationalise institution-wide data governance policies, frameworks, and practices in alignment with national requirements and government circulars. Serve as the organisation’s Chief Data Officer, overseeing data management, data quality, metadata, and controlled data access across the institution. Manage and coordinate internal and external data sharing arrangements, including vetting data-related clauses in agreements upon request. Coordinate implementation of national data directives and prepare statutory submissions such as the Annual Data Report.

Enterprise Data Platforms and Strategic Data Projects

Own and oversee enterprise data platforms within the institutional Data Warehouse. Lead and coordinate major enterprise data initiatives such as learner and business data platforms supporting institutional decision-making. Oversee end-to-end project lifecycle activities including architecture design, data ingestion, specification reviews, testing, issue resolution, and vendor management.

Advanced Analytics, Predictive Modelling and AI Enablement

Provide strategic oversight of predictive analytics and modelling initiatives, including learner analytics and AI-enabled insights. Partner with data engineering teams to operationalise models, monitor performance, and define lifecycle management criteria.

Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence Governance

Lead institution-wide digitalisation planning, implementation, and digital maturity assessment initiatives. Establish, implement, and maintain AI governance frameworks, approval workflows, and risk management practices. Operationalise new government AI guidelines, circulars, and national initiatives, and act as the institution’s point-of-contact for AI-related engagements with government agencies.

Capability Building and Organisational Culture Enablement

Drive capability development programmes in data, analytics, AI, low-code platforms, and emerging digital technologies. Lead the development and curation of guidance materials, playbooks, toolkits, and knowledge portals to support staff adoption and best practices. Promote and sustain champion networks, communities of practice, guilds, and train-the-trainer programmes.

AI Strategy Implementation

Oversee the institution’s AI strategy and implementation, including the focus areas and enablers, in collaboration with relevant departments and schools. Serve as secretariat for RP AI Advisory Panel, working with both external and internal stakeholders.

[What we are looking for]

1.    A relevant qualification in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
2.    At least 12–15 years of relevant professional experience, with substantial leadership experience in data, digital transformation, analytics, or artificial intelligence roles, including enterprise-scale initiatives.
3.    Demonstrated experience serving in, or operating at the level of, a Chief Data Officer or equivalent, with strong grounding in data governance, data policy, and regulatory compliance.
4.    Proven track record in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex programmes involving data platforms, analytics, AI, and digitalisation.
5.    Strong understanding of AI governance, responsible AI practices, and the practical operationalisation of AI within large organisations.
6.    Experience collaborating with government agencies, internal stakeholders, vendors, and external partners on data and digital initiatives.
7.    Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and influencing skills, with the ability to advise and engage senior leaders and decision-makers effectively.