A fractional data and AI director is a senior leader who works part-time to set and deliver a business's data and AI strategy. They cover data quality, reporting, governance and practical AI adoption, helping SMEs and scale-ups turn data into decisions and use AI safely without hiring a full-time executive.
What it means
The role combines data leadership with applied AI. A fractional data and AI director typically assesses data sources and quality, designs reporting and analytics, sets data governance and AI policies, and identifies where AI or automation can deliver measurable value.
Compared with a chief AI officer, the emphasis is broader and more foundational: reliable data comes first, because AI projects built on poor data rarely succeed.
When you need one
Common signs are conflicting reports, data spread across disconnected systems, staff using AI tools without guidance, or AI pilots that never reach production. Leadership Services provides fractional data and AI directors from its bench of senior directors, from £1,795 per month.
Frequently asked questions
How is a data and AI director different from a chief AI officer?
A chief AI officer concentrates on AI strategy, governance and adoption. A data and AI director also owns the data foundations underneath: data quality, architecture, reporting and analytics. For many SMEs this combined role makes more sense, because better data is often the first step to useful AI.
What does a fractional data and AI director deliver first?
Usually a review of data sources, quality and reporting, plus an AI usage policy. From there they prioritise a small number of high-value use cases, such as automated reporting or process automation, and build the governance needed to scale them safely.
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Last updated: 5 November 2026