Head of Data & Digital Systems

Colas Ltd are a UK subsidiary of the global Colas Group, which operates in over 50 countries worldwide and employs over 55,000 people including over 1500 in the UK across multiple sites. We are specialists in highways construction and have been involved in large-scale UK and international construction projects within the highways, airfields, and marine sectors as well as offering highways maintenance services and manufacturing our own innovative surfacing products. We hold a 'Gold Investor in People' award for continuously developing and rewarding our employees, offering excellent career potential.  

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Purpose of the Role

  We are seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Data & Digital Systems to lead our data, digital technology and business systems strategy. Reporting to the CFO, this role will be responsible for ensuring the organisation has reliable systems, trusted data and innovative digital solutions that support operational excellence, informed decision-making and sustainable business performance. Working across the organisation, you will drive digital transformation, champion data-led thinking and provide strategic leadership on how technology can enhance business outcomes.

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Package Description

Here at Colas, we offer a great total compensation package, including:

• A salary between £65,000 and £75,000 (dependent on experience) PLUS Company Car / Car Allowance
• Our Colas Pension Scheme has combined contributions of up to 10%
• Life Assurance Scheme which is x4 basic salary
• 25 days annual leave per year + Public Holidays 
• Holiday Purchase & Selling Scheme
• Hybrid Working Scheme (dependent on the role)
• Family-Friendly Benefits, including Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay
• Opportunities to study towards a fully funded Professional Qualification

Ongoing personal / professional development

Discounts on car leasing, holidays, cinema tickets, restaurants and much more through our online employee benefits portal

Main Responsibilities

As Head of Data & Digital Systems, you will develop and deliver the organisation's data and digital strategy, ensuring alignment with wider business objectives and future growth plans. You will establish robust data governance frameworks, promoting data quality, security, accessibility and compliance while developing reporting, analytics and dashboard capabilities that provide meaningful business insights.

You will lead the digital transformation roadmap, identifying opportunities to improve processes, services and stakeholder experiences through technology, automation and emerging digital solutions. Working closely with internal teams and technology partners, you will oversee the implementation of digital projects from concept through to adoption, ensuring benefits are realised and business objectives are achieved.

The role will also provide strategic oversight of business systems, ensuring applications are fit for purpose, integrated effectively and continuously improved to meet operational needs. You will act as a trusted adviser to senior leaders, translating technical concepts into clear business recommendations, while leading a high-performing team and coordinating stakeholders across both operational and support functions to deliver successful outcomes.

Ideal Candidate

You are an experienced leader with a strong track record in data, digital transformation and business systems. Comfortable operating at both strategic and operational levels, you can turn complex technical challenges into clear business solutions. You'll bring expertise in data governance, analytics and technology delivery, coupled with excellent stakeholder management skills and a passion for innovation. Experience with cloud platforms, modern data environments, AI, automation or business intelligence tools will be advantageous.

At Colas, our culture is guided by four core values: Respect, Commitment, Pioneering, and Sharing. These values shape how we work, collaborate, and grow together. We believe that respect is the foundation of every relationship. By treating others as we wish to be treated, we foster fairness, transparency, and inclusion within our teams and with our clients, communities, and partners. Commitment means dedicating ourselves fully to everything we do. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to make a meaningful impact. With a pioneering spirit, we prioritise bold innovation over blind ambition. We welcome new ideas, invest in our people, and work to deliver sustainable infrastructure solutions that shape the future. Through sharing, we build trust and solidarity, encouraging collaboration and growth at all levels of the business. 

Colas Ltd is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that mirrors the communities we serve. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you want a workplace where your voice is valued and your potential is developed, Colas is the right choice. 

Note to Recruitment Agencies                                                                                                                                         

In line with our Company Policy, Colas Ltd has a preference for direct hiring and we will reach out to our PSL (Preferred Suppliers List) agencies if the role is eligible for release. We do not accept speculative CVs from agencies. If a speculative CV is sent, no fee will be applicable.