Head, Data, Analytics and AI

Role Overview

The Head of Data, Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (DNA) at Kenya Airways leads the airline's efforts to turn data into a strategic asset. This role, reporting to the Chief Information and Data Officer, oversees the teams and systems that deliver advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI solutions across the business. By aligning data initiatives with commercial and operational goals, the position directly supports Kenya Airways' growth and innovation agenda.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute an enterprise-wide data and analytics strategy that aligns with Kenya Airways' business objectives.
• Establish and maintain robust data governance, quality, and security frameworks, working with the Data Privacy Officer to ensure PII compliance.
• Oversee the architecture, development, and upkeep of scalable data pipelines and infrastructure.
• Lead the research, development, and deployment of AI and machine learning models to address complex business challenges.
• Integrate AI solutions into existing business processes and systems, ensuring seamless adoption.
• Manage a USD 2,500,000 investment budget and develop a 3-to-5-year financial plan for the DNA department.
• Negotiate and manage service level agreements and contracts with external data science and analytics partners.
• Champion data literacy and a data-driven culture across the organization, providing training and educational opportunities.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Statistics, Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Engineering, or a related quantitative field; a Master's degree is advantageous.
• At least 7 years of experience in data engineering, data science, or AI, including a minimum of 5 years in a leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated success leading data science, data engineering, and/or AI teams.
• Extensive knowledge of machine learning frameworks, generative AI technologies, and big data platforms.
• Strong understanding of data architecture, governance, and security best practices.
• Experience with cloud-based data platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, Java, and SQL.
• Hands-on experience with big data technologies such as Redshift, S3, Databricks, data lakes, and Spark.
• Familiarity with business intelligence tools like Looker, Tableau, or Power BI.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

What We Offer / Why Join

• Play a pivotal role in Kenya Airways' data and AI transformation, driving innovation and creating substantial business value.
• Be a key member of the leadership team, shaping the airline's strategic direction and contributing to its growth.
• Work in a dynamic environment where you can influence enterprise-wide data maturity and build a lasting data-driven culture.