Project Director or Senior Project Manager (Data, AI + Microsoft Cloud)

Project Director | Senior Project ManagerData, AI and Microsoft Cloud ProgramsAbout nexwavenexwave is an AI first consultancy that exists to redefine what is possible with data and Microsoft technologies. Founded by industry leaders who believed there was a smarter, more honest way to do consulting, we specialise exclusively in the Microsoft Cloud and bring deep expertise across Fabric, Azure, Data, AI and Modern Apps.We partner with ambitious organisations to deliver real outcomes at speed and scale, always guided by our core values: integrity, unity, stewardship, courage, agility, mastery and devotion.Our team, affectionately known as "nexxies", are creative technologists and pragmatic strategists. They choose what is right over what is easy, work as one team, prioritise long term value, challenge conventions, adapt quickly, sharpen their craft and go above and beyond to create exceptional client experiences.At nexwave you will join builders who are committed to excellence, determined to set a new standard for technology consulting, and eager to work alongside the best, grow fast and have fun while doing it.The OpportunityWe are looking for a Project Director or Senior Project Manager who can confidently own complex, multi stream programs across data, AI and Microsoft Cloud.In this role you will:Lead end to end delivery of strategic client initiatives, from discovery and business case through to landing change and measuring value.Work closely with our founders, architects and engineering leads to shape outcomes, not just deliver outputs.Become the trusted partner for senior stakeholders who are relying on nexwave to modernise their data, AI and application landscape.This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who loves delivery, lives in the detail when needed, and is equally comfortable in the boardroom setting direction with executives.ResponsibilitiesAt various phases of programs, you will:Client Leadership and Portfolio OwnershipOwn a portfolio of data, AI and cloud projects for key clients and act as their primary point of contact.Facilitate discovery sessions and roadmap conversations that connect technology initiatives to business outcomes.Build trusted relationships with C level and senior stakeholders, and help them navigate trade-offs, risk and prioritisation.Represent nexwave in executive forums, steering committees and governance boards.Project Delivery and GovernanceShape delivery approaches for each engagement, using a mix of agile, hybrid and traditional methods that fit the context.Establish clear scope, milestones, dependencies and success measures for every program.Run effective governance rhythms, including stand ups, showcases, risk reviews, steering committees and retrospectives.Proactively identify and manage risks, issues and decisions, and keep everyone aligned on what matters most.Work closely with solution architects and tech leads to make sure designs are feasible, secure, scalable and aligned to the Microsoft Cloud.Commercial and Financial ManagementOwn project commercials, including budgets, forecasts, margin and change control.Prepare and review statements of work, proposals and extensions with our sales and leadership team.Track delivery health using a small set of meaningful metrics and make early course corrections where required.People Leadership and CultureLead blended teams of nexwave consultants and client stakeholders, creating an environment where people can do their best work.Support capability growth by giving feedback, coaching and opportunities to stretch into new responsibilities.Model nexwave values in how you show up with clients and colleagues.Contribute to internal frameworks, playbooks and repeatable delivery patterns that improve how we work.Resource Management, PMO Ownership and Future Leadership:Own the resource management process ensuring people are well utilisedOwn the PMO functionGrow out the PMO function helping to hire future project team membersExperienceWe know there is no single path into this kind of role. You might come from a consulting, delivery or internal transformation background. The ideal nexxie for this role will have:Program and Project LeadershipStrong experience as a Project Director, Program Manager or Senior Project Manager in consulting, technology or complex enterprise environments.A track record of delivering multi stream, cross functional initiatives in data, analytics, AI or cloud.Demonstrated experience managing programs with multiple vendors, stakeholders and integration points.Technology and Domain UnderstandingFamiliarity with the Microsoft ecosystem, including Azure, Data and AI, Fabric, Power Platform, Copilot or modern applications. You do not need to be an architect, but you can speak the language and connect business conversations to technical realities.Experience working alongside data, integration and application teams, ideally within a modern cloud or lakehouse environment.Delivery PracticesStrong grounding in project delivery methods, including agile and hybrid approaches.Experience setting up and running practical governance, not theatre.Comfort using modern collaboration and work management tools.QualificationsThere are no mandatory qualifications for success in this role. A typical background might include:Bachelor's degree in business, IT, engineering or a related field.Relevant delivery certifications such as PMP, Prince2, Scrum, Agile or similar.Microsoft certifications or training in Azure, Data, AI or Fabric are highly regarded but not essential.Above all, we value your delivery track record, judgement and mindset more than certificates.Soft SkillsWe are looking for someone who:Communicates clearly and confidently with both technical teams and executives.Can facilitate challenging conversations and keep momentum when things are ambiguous.Is comfortable making calls with incomplete information and adjusting when new facts emerge.Brings a calm, solutions focused presence, especially when stakes are high.Is collaborative, generous with knowledge and committed to lifting the capability of the whole team.Has a strong sense of ownership and does what they say they will do.Employment Type and LocationFull time, permanent role.Hybrid working model.Based in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane or Adelaide.Perks and BenefitsFlexible hybrid work designed to support real work life balance.Professional development and training, including support for certifications.Opportunities to work with leading clients on meaningful, high impact programs.Regular team events and a collaborative, low ego culture.Wellness initiatives that recognise you are a whole person, not just a job title.Modern tools and a supportive environment that helps you do your best work.BYOD tech allowance.Ready to Build Tomorrow Today?If you are a delivery leader who loves turning complex ideas into tangible outcomes, and you want to help shape the next wave of AI and data powered organisations, we would love to hear from you.Email your cover letter and resume to team@nexwave.com.au