Global Data Science & AI Manager

Role Title: Global Data Science & AI Manager Compensation: $150,000 – $200,000 Base Location: Houston, TX Travel: ~25% (domestic & international) The Opportunity We’re partnering with a global industrial organisation undergoing a significant digital transformation to hire a Global Data Science & AI Manager . This is a high-impact, greenfield role responsible for shaping how data and AI are leveraged across a complex, international business. You’ll define the strategy, identify high-value use cases, and drive execution of AI initiatives that directly impact operational efficiency, reliability, and cost optimisation. If you’re someone who thrives at the intersection of technology, strategy, and real-world execution , and enjoys turning ambiguity into structured, scalable solutions, this is a rare opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up. Why You Should Work Here True greenfield opportunity: build AI and data capability from the ground up in an evolving environment High visibility: work directly with senior leadership on enterprise-wide initiatives Real business impact: focus on practical, measurable outcomes—not theoretical AI use cases Global scope: influence teams, systems, and decision-making across multiple regions Execution-focused culture: prioritises results, pragmatism, and business value over hype Career growth: define and scale a future team as the function matures The Role As Global Data Science & AI Manager, you’ll operate as a strategic and hands‑on leader embedded within a cross‑functional innovation and technology group. This is initially an individual contributor role with a clear path to building and leading a team. You’ll assess the current state of data and systems, define a multi‑year roadmap, and lead the development of AI/ML solutions that move from concept to production. You’ll partner closely with stakeholders across IT, engineering, operations, and business leadership, acting as a translator between technical capabilities and business needs. What You’ll Own Define and execute a multi‑year roadmap aligned to business priorities Identify and prioritise high‑impact AI/ML use cases tied to measurable outcomes Data & System Assessment Evaluate existing data, ERP platforms, and operational systems Navigate and improve fragmented or complex data environments Solution Delivery Lead end‑to‑end deployment of scalable AI/ML solutions Drive adoption and ensure solutions deliver real business value Cross-Functional Influence Partner with IT, engineering, R&D, and business units globally Drive data‑driven decision‑making across a matrixed organisation Contribute to improving data infrastructure, pipelines, and governance Help shape scalable data architecture and best practices Future Team Buildout Define organisational structure and hiring roadmap Build and lead a data & AI function over time What We’re Looking For Must‑Haves: 5–10 years of experience in Data Science, AI/ML, or Advanced Analytics Experience working in industrial, manufacturing, or infrastructure‑heavy environments Proven ability to lead or contribute to data/AI transformation initiatives Strong ability to translate business problems into technical solutions (and vice versa) Technical & Functional Experience: Exposure to ERP systems and operational/industrial data environments Experience with data pipelines, infrastructure, and production ML solutions Ability to work effectively with messy, fragmented, or evolving datasets Core Skills: Strong stakeholder management and influencing capabilities Excellent communication with both technical and non‑technical audiences Hands‑on, pragmatic, and execution‑oriented mindset Nice‑to‑Haves: Background in manufacturing, energy, industrials, or Industry 4.0 environments Experience building AI or data capabilities in early‑stage or greenfield settings Exposure to cloud platforms (e.g., Azure or similar) What Success Looks Like First 6 Months: Clear understanding of current‑state systems and a defined AI/data roadmap 12 Months: Initial AI solutions deployed with measurable business impact Long‑Term: A scalable, embedded AI capability driving decision‑making across the organisation The Environment Collaborative, cross‑functional, and globally distributed Focused on practical execution and tangible outcomes Values adaptability, strong communication, and stakeholder alignment Best suited for someone who is level‑headed, hands‑on, and comfortable with ambiguity #J-18808-Ljbffr Harnham