Director of Data & AI (Growth)

Reporting to: VP Growth Experience & Engineering
Location: London, Manchester

This role is part of our EMEA Data craft team, an integrated craft across Europe driving data engineering, data science, and AI initiatives. We combine our expertise in data architecture, analytics, and AI to deliver exceptional data-driven solutions that build lasting relationships with our clients like Sainsbury’s, Nikon, Rituals, eBay and Just Eat Takeaway.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Director of Growth (Data & AI) is responsible for driving revenue growth by establishing a dedicated commercial resource focused exclusively on Data & AI services across EMEA markets. This role focuses on enterprise client acquisition for Data & AI opportunities, developing cross-market pipelines, and securing large-scale opportunities to achieve sales targets. You will coordinate with local sales teams and collaborate closely with our Centers of Excellence to develop and commercialise propositions.

This role requires a commercially driven, strategic thinker with a proven track record in data and AI solution sales within the technology and marketing services industry.

JOB PURPOSE

As part of the EMEA Data craft team, you will be responsible for driving enterprise-level engagement and revenue growth by building relationships with and acquiring new clients for DEPT®'s Data & AI services.

To be successful in this role, it is imperative to have a curious, commercially focused mind with a deep understanding of data and AI applications. You must have a broad understanding of industry verticals and the ability to translate complex data and AI solutions into compelling business value propositions. While you'll work across the entire sales funnel, your primary focus will be bottom-funnel performance – closing deals and generating revenue.

You must be able to quickly build trust and rapport, ask the right questions, and bring a strategic approach to selling data and AI solutions. An entrepreneurial spirit with a bias for action and problem-solving is necessary to be successful in this role.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Enterprise client acquisition focused on Data & AI opportunities
  • Identify and pursue enterprise-level clients who can benefit from our data and AI services
  • Develop compelling value propositions tailored to specific industry challenges
  • Act as the primary commercial point of contact for Data & AI services
  • Translate (complex) AI concepts into visually strong pitch decks 
• Cross-market pipeline development and opportunity qualification
  • Build and manage a strong sales pipeline for Data & AI services across EMEA markets
  • Implement a structured approach to evaluate and qualify data and AI opportunities
  • Collaborate with regional teams to identify and pursue cross-selling opportunities
• Coordination with local sales teams
  • Work closely with local market sales teams to ensure consistent messaging and approach
  • Support local sales teams in identifying and pursuing data and AI opportunities
• Close collaboration with Centers of Excellences (CoE’s) to develop and commercialise propositions
  • Partner with our CoE’s to translate innovations into commercial offerings
  • Work with technical teams to develop compelling case studies and proof points
  • Ensure propositions are market-ready and address specific client challenges
• Execute the Data & AI commercial strategy across EMEA
  • Implement unified data and AI propositions across markets
  • Drive cross-selling of data and AI services into existing DEPT® clients
  • Generate new business through proactive outreach and networking
• Build and manage strong client relationships
  • Develop and nurture strategic relationships with key decision-makers
  • Ensure client satisfaction and identify expansion opportunities
• Lead compelling and successful pitches for Data & AI services
  • Articulate the value proposition of our data and AI capabilities in pitches
  • Differentiate DEPT®'s approach in competitive situations
• Develop strategies to meet and exceed sales targets
  • Set realistic but ambitious goals for data and AI services growth
  • Monitor performance and adjust strategies as needed
  • Collaborate with leadership to align sales efforts with business objectives

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Proven track record in selling data and AI solutions with demonstrated success in closing enterprise-level deals
• Strong understanding of data engineering, analytics, and AI/ML concepts and how they deliver business value
• Experience selling complex technical solutions with the ability to translate technical capabilities into business outcomes & strong pitch presentations
• Strategic mindset with the ability to develop and execute sales plans aligned with business objectives
• Strong business acumen and financial literacy to analyze sales data, forecast revenue, and manage deals
• Client-focused approach with a deep understanding of how data and AI can solve specific industry challenges
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms
• Analytical thinking with the ability to leverage data and insights to drive sales performance
• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced and competitive environment
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills across organizational levels
• Experience in digital agency or consulting environment is a plus

WE OFFER:

• A flexible, hybrid working policy (2 days from the office, depending on location).
• An excellent salary based on experience and equal pay policies
• Pension, free private healthcare, mental health support, and company sick pay scheme.
• 26 days paid holiday (plus UK Bank Holidays).
• Help getting you to work with a season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme.
• Enhanced family friendly policies to support new parents.
• Social and Cultural Events, plenty of opportunities to connect with colleagues through organised activities and celebrations.
• Inspirational Talks, bringing the outside in with regular guest speakers and events.
• Learning and Development, supporting your growth with continuous opportunities to learn and advance.
• Buddy Programme: You will be paired with a ‘Buddy’ to help you through your first weeks’ at DEPT®.
• A reputation for doing good. DEPT® has been a Certified B Corp® since 2021 and named ‘Agency of the Year’ at both The Lovies and The Webby Awards.
• Awesome clients. Whether big or small, local or global — at DEPT® you’ll get the opportunity to work with clients of all sizes and across all industries. And we celebrate all of our successes together!
• The opportunity for possibility. We want to enable you to do what you do best and help you develop your skills further with training, development and certifications.
• Global annual DEPT® Cares Month in which employees come together and donate their skills to support local charities.

WHO ARE WE? 

We are pioneers at heart. What does that mean? We are always looking forward, thinking of what we can create tomorrow that does not exist today. We were born digital and we are a new model of agency, with a deep skillset in tech and marketing. That’s why we hire curious, self-driven, talented people who never stop innovating. 

Our culture is big enough to cope and small enough to care. Meaning, that with people across 30+ countries, we’re big enough to provide you with the best tools, global opportunities, and benefits that help you thrive. While acting small by investing in you, your growth, and your team, and giving you the autonomy to solve our client's problems, no matter where you are in the world.

DEPT® is committed to making a positive impact on the planet and since 2021 has been Climate Neutral and B Corporation certified.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION 

At DEPT®, we take pride in creating an inclusive workplace where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive. We actively seek to recruit, develop, nurture, and retain talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, with varying skills and perspectives.

Not sure you meet all qualifications? Apply, and let us decide! Research shows that women and members of underrepresented groups tend not to apply for jobs when they think they may not meet every requirement, when in fact they do. We believe in giving everyone a fair chance to shine. 

We also encourage you to reach out to us and discuss any reasonable adjustments we can make to support you throughout the recruitment process and your time with us.

Want to know more about our dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion? Check out our efforts here.