Associate Director - AI & Data, Energy Providers

Associate Director, AI and Data Practice

We are seeking an experienced Associate Director to join our growing AI and Data practice, with a dedicated focus on commercial energy providers. This individual will be a hands-on leader, responsible driving business growth through proactive sales efforts as well as for shaping and delivering AI- and data-driven transformations. The Associate Director will oversee cross-functional teams and collaborate directly with client executives and business leaders to drive value through AI & data strategy through implementation of AI-based solutions. This is a leadership role for someone who thrives at the intersection of industry strategy, market growth, and technology.

Client Leadership & Engagement

• Drive new business opportunities by identifying client needs, shaping proposals, and expanding relationships into strategic partnerships.
• Lead client engagements end-to-end from strategy through implementation, ensuring delivery excellence and measurable business outcomes.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key clients and stakeholders to grow accounts and influence buying decisions.

Solution Development & Innovation

• Drive end-to-end solution development leveraging AI and advanced analytics, with a strong emphasis on AI and data strategy, governance, and innovation to deliver scalable, client-centric outcomes.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies to inform solution development and position offerings competitively in the market.

Team & Practice Leadership

• Own business development activities including pipeline generation, proposal development, and strategic pursuits to meet growth targets.
• Mentor and lead multi-disciplinary consulting teams including data scientists, engineers, and business consultants.
• Contribute to recruiting, talent development, and thought leadership within the practice.

Industry & Domain Expertise

• Apply deep knowledge of the energy and utilities industry to shape strategies around DER integration, energy transition, grid modernization, regulatory compliance, and customer experience.
• Interpret regulatory and policy changes to identify opportunities for AI and data enablement and create new revenue streams.

What You Will Need

• Bachelors Degree in STEM field
• SEVEN (7) or more years of experience in AI, data strategy, and analytics consulting, with a proven track record in business developmentincluding client relationship management, opportunity identification, and contribution to revenue growth.
• FIVE (5) or more years of experience leading data-driven transformation initiatives within the utilities or broader energy sector, with a focus on strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and change management.
• Experience using AI/ML technologies, modern data platforms (e.g., Snowflake, Databricks, AWS/GCP/Azure), and advanced analytics methodologies, with the ability to translate technical capabilities into strategic value propositions during client engagements
• Experience across the business development lifecycleincluding opportunity identification, capture strategy, and proposal developmentwhile ensuring alignment with technical delivery.
• Experience leading large-scale AI and analytics engagements from concept through execution, while simultaneously expanding client relationships and uncovering new revenue opportunities.
• Experience in sourcing, structuring, and executing strategic partnerships between technology providers and business stakeholders to accelerate both delivery and market expansion.

What Would Be Nice To Have

• Ability to engage and influence diverse audiencesfrom C-suite executives (CIO, CISO, CDO) to technical teamsbridging business objectives with technical solutions.
• Skilled at motivating and guiding multi-disciplinary teams of AI and data specialists to deliver at scale while fostering a growth-oriented culture.
• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills that drive trust, collaboration, and commercial success.
• Master's Degree in Data Engineering, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, or related technical field
• AI/LLM Certifications
• Project Management Professional (PMP)

The annual salary range for this position is $149,000.00-$248,000.00. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, security clearances, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

Guidehouse offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects our commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.