Position Description - Data & AI Research & Insight Manager

A senior leader with 10+ years’ experience in IT strategy, research and analytics, delivering insight-led decision support at enterprise level.

In support of ESB’s strategic objectives, this role leads the enterprise Data & AI research and insights agenda to inform strategy, investment, and innovation decisions through evidence-based analysis and clear executive insight.

Key Responsibilities

Lead enterprise Data & AI research and horizon scanning across technology, market, and regulatory trends
Deliver insight-led decision support including analysis, value hypotheses, and recommendation development
Design and operate proof-of-value and feasibility assessments for innovation and AI initiatives
Develop and lead the Data & AI business unit “spokes” model ensuring alignment and consistency
Shape and prioritise enterprise Data & AI demand aligned to strategic objectives
Address complex strategic challenges and define new approaches in emerging AI domains
Engage and advise senior stakeholders with clear, evidence-based insights and recommendations

Position description - AI Centre of Excellence Manager

A senior Data & AI leader with 10+ years’ experience leading enterprise technical teams and architecture capability in complex environments.

In support of ESB’s strategic objectives of decarbonising electricity, building resilient infrastructure and empowering clients, this role leads the enterprise AI Centre of Excellence to deliver scalable, secure and value-driven AI capability across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Define and lead the enterprise AI CoE strategy, operating model and capability roadmap
Lead Data Science, Data & AI Architecture and AI Engineering to build production-grade AI solutions
Establish enterprise standards, platforms and ways of working for Data & AI design and architecture
Provide technical assurance and governance for high-value and high-risk AI initiatives
Enable measurable business value from AI across transformation programmes
Lead and develop multi-disciplinary teams, aligning and shaping outcomes across business units
Advise senior leaders on AI capability and feasibility considerations

Experience and Qualifications

Essential

10+ years’ experience in Data, Analytics, AI strategy, or research roles
Strong leadership experience in complex, fast-paced environments
Relevant third level degree or equivalent qualification.
Expertise in strategy, research and insight generation
Experience supporting strategic decision-making and investment cases
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Proven experience leading high-performing technical teams in complex environments
Experience defining enterprise operating models, standards, and platforms

Desirable

Experience in innovation frameworks, PoC/PoV design, and value measurement
Understanding of regulatory and governance requirements for AI
Expertise across Data Science, AI Architecture, and AI Engineering
Experience in large-scale transformation or regulated environments

Location

This position will be based in F27, ESB’s Head Office, Dublin 2.

Smart Working at ESB is designed to make ‘in-person’ time together as purposeful as possible while also enabling the effective use of digital tools and hybrid arrangements to preserve our commitment to flexibility. The successful candidate may work flexibly within the jurisdiction where they have been employed, with attendance at the workplace for in-person collaboration at least two days per week. All Smart Working arrangements are subject to regular review based on the operational requirements of the role, the team, and the business.

Reporting To

Senior Manager, Data and Analytics

Why Work with Us?

Opportunity to lead Ireland’s transition to net zero carbon future
Career development through mentoring and training
Corporate Social Responsibility Opportunities
Sports and Social Clubs
Networking opportunities
Credit Union
Generous Pension
Access to staff well-being programmes
Generous parental leave entitlements
Strong values-based and inclusive culture
Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
Great team environment working to our Core Values: Courageous, Caring, Driven and Trusted

Salary

€86,300 - €101,600 per annum, depending on experience.

Closing Date

3rd July 2026.

Interview

Candidates who are shortlisted for interview will complete a Behavioural Interview based on each of the following Behaviours, which underpin how we work at ESB and are critical to delivering our strategy:

Accountable and Ethical
Collaborative
Growing and Adaptive
Proactive
Respectful and Supportive

More information available on Our Behaviours - Home

Notes

Your application will be held in reserve for 6 months should you be suitable for the role.

The successful candidate will be required to evidence their right to work in the Republic of Ireland prior to commencement of employment.

Data & AI Manager

Benefits

Job Description