Head of Technology

Join to apply for the Head of Technology - Data & AI Engineering - Hawthorn East role at Coles Group

The Data Team within Coles Technology focuses on building data collection and analytics capabilities to uncover customer, product, and operational insights, supporting a data-driven organisation.

About The Role

This exciting position within our Data and Intelligence team will be pivotal in architecting and leading the development of scalable, high-performance AI/ML and data solutions. To be successful, you will aim for the following:

• Lead domain-specific squads including software engineers, data engineers, ML engineers, data scientists, and UX designers
• Ensure measurable business value from AI and data engineering efforts, aligning with corporate plan outcomes
• Integrate AI solutions seamlessly into domain-specific applications and systems for efficient deployment
• Establish best practices for software development, data engineering, and AI/ML model development
• Implement and optimize automation for rapid and reliable deployments
• Ensure AI and data solutions comply with security and compliance requirements
• Collaborate with product and platform leads for smooth integration of AI solutions and data infrastructure
• Cultivate a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement, exploring new technologies and strategies
• Make procurement decisions and implementing in-house builds or vendor solutions

Responsibilities include building strong, mutually beneficial relationships between product teams, Technology leaders and enterprise stakeholders to define priorities, report on progress, and integrate AI and data solutions into business initiatives while elevating the software engineering practice within Data and AI disciplines. You will provide thought leadership and maintain strong technical understanding of evolving AI and data domains to inform corporate roadmaps and capabilities. Known for influence, respect, and trust, you will excel in communication and strategic alignment. Balancing people, process, and technology, you will influence beyond technology to engage broader stakeholders.

Experience Required

• Proven years of experience in AI/ML engineering, with clear progression into management roles
• Proven ability to design and architect complex scalable AI/ML systems and data pipelines
• Software engineering background with strong programming skills
• Experience with GenAI and agentic workflows
• Significant experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Blend of software engineering and machine learning experience
• Experience with cloud data platforms (Snowflake, DataBricks) and reporting tools (Power BI)
• Experience with MLOps practices (CI/CD, model monitoring, etc.)
• Evidence of building AI models and integrating them into business workflows (API management, load management, integration, data security, logging)
• Experience in complex corporate environments; retail experience preferred
• Understanding of delivering under Agile methodology

Commercial Skills And Formal Qualifications

• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, or C++
• Experience with ML frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn)
• Knowledge of data engineering tools and technologies (Spark, Kafka, databases)
• Cloud platform expertise
• Leadership and team management skills
• Good understanding of software architecture
• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Maths, or related field

What's in it for you?

• Flexible working options with hybrid arrangements
• Office perks including gym facilities, free parking, and on-site amenities
• Discounts: 5% year-round on supermarket and liquor purchases, with additional double discounts at times
• Recognition through Coles values via digital platform with points for gifts and cards
• Learning and development opportunities across career programs and training
• Paid parental leave for permanent team members
• Investment in your future through an employee share plan (pre-tax salary sacrifice deductions)

About The Recruitment Process

Coles is committed to building a gender-equitable, diverse, inclusive, and welcoming team. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are happy to adjust the recruitment process to support candidates with disability. For information, see the Our Recruitment Process section of our careers site or email

Job ID 164945

Employment Type Full time

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Information Technology
• Retail

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