Director of AI and Analytics

Overview
Job Title: Director of AI and Analytics
Location: Auston, TX - Hybrid
Job Type: Independent Contract
Start Date: ASAP
Pay Rate: $90-120/hr
Job Summary
The Director of AI & Analytics is a strategic and technical leader who will drive the development and implementation of AI, data, and analytics solutions to deliver measurable business impact. Acting as a "player-coach," this role bridges business priorities with technical execution, ensuring the successful deployment of AI-driven, predictive analytics capabilities. The Director will oversee a multidisciplinary team, manage AI project portfolios, and inspire innovation while fostering a collaborative, high-performing culture.
This position is based in Austin, Texas, and requires working on-site two days per week as part of a hybrid work model.
Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
AI and Analytics Leadership

• Oversee the end-to-end development and operationalization of AI and analytics solutions, transforming insights into actionable outcomes.
• Define and implement technical standards for AI/ML delivery, ensuring scalability and production resilience.
• Lead teams across artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and business analytics, fostering a results-driven and innovative work culture.
• Prioritize AI initiatives based on business value and ROI, driving their alignment with organizational goals.
• Establish robust MLOps practices, ensuring sustained model performance and monitoring in production environments.

Strategic Leadership and Partnerships

• Act as a strategic advisor by translating business needs into actionable AI and data strategies.
• Collaborate with leadership and business units to identify high-impact opportunities and define innovative AI roadmaps.
• Build and manage effective partnerships across technical and business teams to achieve organizational priorities.
• Engage in long-term strategic planning, aligning AI objectives with enterprise goals and fostering cross-departmental collaboration.

Team Development and Engagement

• Lead and cultivate a high-performing, diverse team, promoting skill development, mentorship, and talent growth.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Act as a role model with transparent communication and a commitment to team empowerment.
• Support team members in achieving their professional goals while driving individual and organizational success.

Operational and Fiscal Management

• Develop and manage AI and analytics budgets, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
• Monitor and optimize resource allocation, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.
• Oversee compliance with organizational policies, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.

Qualifications
Required Skills and Experience
Leadership & Collaboration

• Proven ability to build, inspire, and lead high-performing, diverse teams.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proactive and results-oriented, with the ability to deliver high-impact outcomes.

Analytics and Technical Expertise

• Extensive experience in leading data science, machine learning, and analytics projects.
• Proficiency in modern analytics platforms, with expertise in Databricks, Python, SQL, and related data management and visualization tools.
• In-depth knowledge of the AI/ML lifecycle, including MLOps, model development, deployment, and monitoring.
• Strong skills in translating business objectives into actionable, data-driven solutions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, or related discipline.
• Certifications in relevant AI/ML platforms (e.g., Databricks, cloud architecture).
• Experience leading advanced analytics and AI programs in a corporate or technical environment.

Work Environment & Additional Information

• Hybrid work model: On-site work in Austin, Texas, at least two days per week, with additional days as required by business needs.
• Ability to adapt to occasional schedule adjustments, overtime, or high-pressure situations.
• Frequent use of computers, virtual communications, and technology platforms.