Job Description

Location: Melbourne (Relocation to Cairns required )

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Employment Type: Permanent

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Summary

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Do you love everything about aviation?? Are you tired of the inconsistent weather that Melbourne offers?? Would you say Crocodiles are your favourite animal??

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This could be the perfect role for you!

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We are looking for a Head of IT Engineering, Data & AI to swap the world's worst city for hayfever in exchange for a warm, tropical climate with incredible beaches. This isn't just any role, this is an chance to lead the IT Engineering, Data & AI for a client specialising in regional Aviation Hubs. Everything from new IT product builds, data security, vendor management all the way to the introduction of new AI strategies & products!

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Onto the serious stuff , we are looking for someone with experience in senior strategic leadership roles in Engineering, Data or AI (preferably a combination!) to relocate north to Cairns. This is an opportunity to work on the strategy for a client spanning across regional aviation hubs servicing 2000+ flights a month whilst still remaining close to the hands-on.

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**PLEASE NOTE - The location of this ad is set to Melbourne, however the role is based in CAIRNS and will require a relocation (relocation allowance provided)**

Key Criteria n

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- Extensive experience in application development and data-related fields at SLT Level
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- Proven track record leading Agile software engineering teams and implementing Agile/DevOps transformations .
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- Deep experience with modern programming languages, frameworks, and architectural patterns (e.g., microservices , event-driven design ).
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- Demonstrated experience with AI/ML integration , API management , and enterprise data platforms (e.g., Snowflake , Tableau ).
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- Strong understanding of data governance , cyber security , and compliance frameworks .
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- Experience managing third-party vendors , outsourced technical delivery, and SLA/contract performance .
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- Excellent stakeholder management , strategic leadership, and communication skills.
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- Relevant certifications in Azure , Agile (Scrum/SAFe) , or DevOps are highly desirable.
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Key Relationships nn
- Reports to: Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
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- Internal Stakeholders: IT Security, Business Unit Leaders, Cross-functional Engineering & Data Teams
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- External Stakeholders: Third-party development vendors, technology partners, and managed service providers
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Key Responsibilities nn
- Serve as the primary technical authority across all developed application assets, enterprise integrations, and data architecture.
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- Define and drive the execution of the overarching Application, AI, and Data strategy .
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- Provide L2+ support for core integrations, in-house developed applications, AI models, storage, and reporting platforms.
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- Function as the owner of ITIL release management and lead the implementation of Agile/Scrum practices and CI/CD pipelines to accelerate software delivery.
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- Oversee vendor relationships , contracts, and outsourced technical engagements to ensure high delivery quality aligned with internal standards.
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- Lead the end-to-end systems testing framework , including SIT , UAT , and test scenario execution.
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- Establish and govern the enterprise AI and data governance framework in alignment with regulatory and security guidelines.
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- Partner closely with IT Security to build secure, compliant applications and respond to cyber security threats using risk policies.
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- Conduct technical design evaluations, code reviews, and provide final architectural approvals.
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- Proactively manage technical and operational risks using established risk management and safety frameworks .
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📌 Head of IT Engineering, Data & AI (Melbourne)
🏢 Randstad
📍 Melbourne