Description:
The Senior Director of AI Strategy and Digital Innovation will report to the Vice President, Information Technology and lead the design, development, and execution of enterprise-wide artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and digital transformation initiatives. This role will play a pivotal part in shaping how the organization leverages advanced technologies to drive innovation and enhance operational excellence across the biotech value chain.
This position will lead the design and deployment of AI-driven platforms, implement modern analytics frameworks, and introduce intelligent automation and Agentic AI to enable transformative capabilities across commercialization.
Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Define and lead Vera’s AI and digital innovation strategy in alignment with corporate and functional OKRs.
- Partner with business leaders to identify high-impact opportunities for AI/ML adoption.
- Act as a thought leader and change agent, driving cultural adoption of AI and digital innovation across the enterprise.
- Lead a team driving the end-to-end AI product pipeline, from prototyping to production deployment.
Innovation & Technology Enablement
- Develop and implement digital innovation roadmaps with a focus on AI/ML, automation, and advanced analytics.
- Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., generative AI, NLP, Agentic AI) for applicability within R&D, clinical, and commercial functions.
- Oversee the deployment of scalable AI platforms, ensuring security, compliance, and ethical AI practices.
- Apply advanced techniques (LLMs, RAG, Agentic Systems) to build impactful, real-world solutions.
Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
- Collaborate with R&D, clinical, regulatory, and commercial teams to integrate AI solutions into business processes.
- Establish partnerships with technology vendors and biotech industry consortia. Translate business and user needs into AI driven products.
- Communicate complex technical concepts to senior executives and business stakeholders with clarity and impact.
- Prepare and deliver AI specific training to staff members on use of GenAI and Agentic AI tools within Vera.
Execution & Delivery
- Lead cross-functional teams in designing and delivering AI-enabled solutions with measurable business outcomes.
- Oversee governance, data management, and regulatory compliance in all AI initiatives.
- Track ROI and performance metrics to evaluate the success of digital innovation projects.
- Drive adoption of AI and advanced analytics capabilities, including GenAI and Agentic AI solutions, to enable predictive insights and intelligent automation
- Proven expertise in AI/ML, GenAI, and Agentic AI frameworks, with hands-on experience delivering enterprise-scale solutions.
- Ensure compliance with GxP, HIPAA, GDPR, SOX, and PHI data standards while embedding robust governance practices
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Master’s or PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Bioinformatics, or related field; MBA or equivalent a plus.
- 12+ years of experience in IT, digital innovation, or AI strategy, preferably in life sciences, biotech, or pharma.
- Demonstrated track record of building and scaling AI/ML solutions in regulated industries.
- Experience leading large, cross-functional programs from ideation to implementation.
Technical & Leadership Skills
- Deep expertise in AI/ML, advanced analytics, and emerging digital technologies.
- Strong understanding of biotech/pharma processes (drug discovery, clinical trials, regulatory, and commercialization).
- Proven ability to influence, inspire, and engage senior executives and diverse stakeholders.
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational leadership skills.