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Head of Data and AI Spain

On-site in Barcelona·Full-time·Added 2 days ago (last checked 9 Nov)

AXA Spain

73 open roles

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Our summary

Work mode: On-site, Barcelona
Contract: Permanent, full-time hours
Spanish: Fluent
English: Required
Other languages: French, Catalan
Experience: Senior level
Education: University degree

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Skills

Requirements

What we're looking for

A degree or equivalent professional experience in data, technology, engineering, computer science, business or a related discipline is desirable.
Significant experience leading data, analytics, AI or digital transformation in a complex, regulated and international organisation.
Proven people leadership experience, including team development, capability building, performance management and leadership through change.
Strong record of managing portfolios and delivering data or AI products from business case through adoption, operation and measurable value realisation.
Demonstrated ability to drive adoption across business and technology teams through stakeholder engagement, communications, training and change management.
Sound understanding of modern data platforms, data architecture, integration, business intelligence, analytics, machine learning, generative AI and software delivery; able to challenge technical proposals and make informed trade-offs without being the principal hands-on engineer.
Practical knowledge of data governance, data quality, privacy, cybersecurity, responsible AI, model risk and controls in a regulated environment.
Experience introducing enterprise AI assistants, secure generative AI platforms, automation or self-service developer tools is highly valuable.
Strong commercial and operational management skills, including budget ownership, supplier management, service performance and risk management.
Strategic and pragmatic mindset, with the ability to simplify complex topics, prioritise effectively and maintain disciplined execution.
Excellent influencing, facilitation, writing and presentation skills, with credibility at senior leadership level and the ability to connect business and technical audiences.

Languages

Professional working proficiency in English and Spanish; French and Catalan are advantageous.

The role

The Head of Data and AI Spain is a strategic leadership role responsible for maximizing the value of data and accelerating responsible AI adoption across AXA Partners Spain.

The role leads the Data team and is key contributor to the end-to-end data and AI agenda: strategy, governance, delivery, operational performance, talent development and business engagement. Working closely with local business functions, Spain IT, AXA Partners Group and AXA Group stakeholders, the role will translate business priorities into a pragmatic portfolio of trusted data products, analytics and AI-enabled solutions.

A core objective is to embed AI in day-to-day work across all teams, notably through the controlled rollout of self-service developer tools and secure in-house generative AI capabilities. Success requires strong leadership, delivery discipline and enough technical depth to challenge decisions and manage risk, rather than hands-on development expertise.

What you'll do

The role leads the Spain Data team, setting clear objectives, accountabilities and development plans while building the capabilities needed to deliver the data and AI roadmap.

It owns the local portfolio and delivery lifecycle for data platforms, data products, business intelligence, advanced analytics and AI use cases, from demand qualification and prioritization through implementation, adoption, value tracking and continuous improvement.

The Head of Data and AI establishes effective governance for data quality, ownership, access, security, privacy, model risk and compliance, aligned with AXA standards and applicable regulation. The role manages delivery partners, suppliers and the relevant budget, and ensures resilient and reliable operation of the data and AI services within scope.

The role acts as the principal local interface with business leaders, Spain IT, AXA Partners Group and AXA Group data and AI communities. It reports to the AXA Partners Spain CIO and contributes to local governance and strategic decision-making.

Success will be measured by trusted data, predictable delivery, measurable business value and sustained adoption of secure AI capabilities across AXA Partners Spain.

Define and execute the Spain data and AI strategy, roadmap and operating model in alignment with business priorities and AXA Partners Group direction.
Lead, coach and develop the Data team; clarify roles, strengthen capabilities and foster a collaborative, accountable and business-oriented culture.
Own demand management and portfolio prioritization, balancing strategic value, regulatory obligations, delivery capacity, dependencies and total cost.
Ensure end-to-end delivery of data products, reporting, analytics and AI solutions, with clear scope, milestones, quality controls, benefits and service ownership.
Establish and enforce data governance, including ownership, quality, access, retention, privacy and security controls.
Drive responsible AI adoption across all functions through use-case discovery, experimentation, change management, training, communications and adoption measurement.
Partner with business leaders to improve data literacy, identify high-value opportunities and embed data-driven decision-making in operational and strategic processes.
Define and monitor KPIs for delivery, service quality, data quality, adoption, risk and realized value; provide transparent reporting and corrective action.
Manage budgets, suppliers and delivery partners, ensuring commercial discipline, performance, continuity and compliance with AXA standards.

Hiring process

2 steps2 interviews8–12 weeks in all

Apply online
Talk with recruiter
With a recruiter
A first chat with your recruiter.
Interview
With hiring manager and key stakeholders
An interview with the hiring manager and other key stakeholders you will work with. Candidates typically meet two to four people for up to an hour each, depending on the role.

AXA aims to reply within 2 weeks of receiving an application; this may be a system-generated email.
Case studies, online tests or language tests can be required for some positions.
The stated 8-12 weeks run from application to start date, not to offer.

Hiring process

To apply, click on the ‘apply for this job’ button, you’ll then need to log in or create a profile to submit your CV. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer and don’t discriminate against employees or potential employees based on protected characteristics. If you have a long-term condition or disability and require adjustments during the application or interview process, please send an email to AXA Partners Global HR Response - globalhr@partners.axa

About AXA Spain

AXA is a multinational insurance group headquartered in Paris, France, operating in the fields of property, casualty, life, savings, and health insurance. With over 90 million customers worldwide and a strong presence in Europe, AXA is one of the largest insurance brands globally. In Spain, AXA operates as AXA Spain, offering a wide range of insurance products and services, and is a significant player in the Spanish insurance market.

AXA Spain has its main offices in Madrid and Barcelona, with a strong focus on digital transformation, data, and AI. The company is actively hiring for roles in technology, data science, cybersecurity, and business management, making it an attractive employer for international professionals. AXA offers a multicultural work environment, opportunities for career growth, and a commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Industry: Insurance
Founded: 1985
Employees: 50,000–100,000
Headquarters: Paris, France
In Spain: Madrid, Barcelona

Good to know if you are moving

AXA Spain offers roles in English and Spanish, with many technical positions open to international candidates.
The company has a strong focus on digital transformation, with many roles in AI, data, and cybersecurity.
AXA provides global mobility opportunities, allowing employees to work across different countries.
Spain offices are located in Madrid and Barcelona, both major hubs for international professionals.
AXA is committed to diversity and inclusion, with programs supporting international hires.

In their own words

About the company & team

We’re AXA Partners, experts at designing and delivering assistance solutions and specialised insurance, credit, and lifestyle protection – with and for our partners worldwide. What sets us apart? The expertise and passion of our 8,500+ people, and a strong network of over 55,000 professionals all over the world. Powered by them and our sector-leading technology, we continuously evolve, adapt and thrive – offering solutions and services that make sure we’re always at people’s side, no matter what. Helping others is our passion. Combining the best digital technology with our warm, human touch, we’re always looking at new ways to offer seamless and reassuring experiences when it really matters.

Join a company that helps protect the forests! At AXA Partners, we plant a tree for every new recruit (with a permanent contract)

All open roles at AXA Spain