Artificial Intelligence Strategy Leader

The Company

PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. Creating innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure, PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. 

We operate a global, two-sided network at scale that connects hundreds of millions of merchants and consumers. We help merchants and consumers connect, transact, and complete payments, whether they are online or in person. PayPal is more than a connection to third-party payment networks. We provide proprietary payment solutions accepted by merchants that enable the completion of payments on our platform on behalf of our customers.

We offer our customers the flexibility to use their accounts to purchase and receive payments for goods and services, as well as the ability to transfer and withdraw funds. We enable consumers to exchange funds more safely with merchants using a variety of funding sources, which may include a bank account, a PayPal or Venmo account balance, PayPal and Venmo branded credit products, a credit card, a debit card, certain cryptocurrencies, or other stored value products such as gift cards, and eligible credit card rewards.  Our PayPal, Venmo, and Xoom products also make it safer and simpler for friends and family to transfer funds to each other. We offer merchants an end-to-end payments solution that provides authorization and settlement capabilities, as well as instant access to funds and payouts. We also help merchants connect with their customers, process exchanges and returns, and manage risk. We enable consumers to engage in cross-border shopping and merchants to extend their global reach while reducing the complexity and friction involved in enabling cross-border trade. 

Our beliefs are the foundation for how we conduct business every day.  We live each day guided by our core values of Inclusion, Innovation, Collaboration, and Wellness. Together, our values ensure that we work together as one global team with our customers at the center of everything we do – and they push us to ensure we take care of ourselves, each other, and our communities.

Job Description Summary:

As the Artificial Intelligence Strategy Leader, you will be responsible for defining, driving, and executing the strategic direction of AI within the company. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including technology, product development, operations, and senior leadership, to ensure the successful integration and scaling of AI-driven solutions. This is a leadership role that requires a deep understanding of AI technologies, strategic vision, and the ability to manage complex projects and initiatives.

Job Description:

PayPal has been revolutionizing commerce globally for more than 25 years. Creating innovative experiences that make moving money, selling, and shopping simple, personalized, and secure, PayPal empowers consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets to join and thrive in the global economy. 

We operate a global, two-sided network at scale that connects hundreds of millions of merchants and consumers. We help merchants and consumers connect, transact, and complete payments, whether they are online or in person. PayPal is more than a connection to third-party payment networks. We provide proprietary payment solutions accepted by merchants that enable the completion of payments on our platform on behalf of our customers.

We offer our customers the flexibility to use their accounts to purchase and receive payments for goods and services, as well as the ability to transfer and withdraw funds. We enable consumers to exchange funds more safely with merchants using a variety of funding sources, which may include a bank account, a PayPal or Venmo account balance, PayPal and Venmo branded credit products, a credit card, a debit card, certain cryptocurrencies, or other stored value products such as gift cards, and eligible credit card rewards.  Our PayPal, Venmo, and Xoom products also make it safer and simpler for friends and family to transfer funds to each other. We offer merchants an end-to-end payments solution that provides authorization and settlement capabilities, as well as instant access to funds and payouts. We also help merchants connect with their customers, process exchanges and returns, and manage risk. We enable consumers to engage in cross-border shopping and merchants to extend their global reach while reducing the complexity and friction involved in enabling cross-border trade. 

Our beliefs are the foundation for how we conduct business every day. We live each day guided by our core values of Inclusion, Innovation, Collaboration, and Wellness. Together, our values ensure that we work together as one global team with our customers at the center of everything we do – and they push us to ensure we take care of ourselves, each other, and our communities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop AI Strategy: Lead the creation and execution of a comprehensive AI strategy aligned with the company’s business goals and vision. Identify key opportunities where AI can create significant value across operations, products, and services.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner with executive leadership, business units, and technical teams to ensure AI solutions are aligned with business needs and customer expectations.
• AI Roadmap Development: Define the AI product and technology roadmap, focusing on prioritization, implementation, and scalability of AI initiatives.
• Leadership and Team Development: Manage and mentor a team of AI researchers, data scientists, engineers, and strategists. Foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning within the AI team.
• Monitor AI Trends: Stay abreast of emerging AI technologies and industry trends. Provide thought leadership on the ethical implications of AI and advocate for responsible AI practices.
• AI Implementation and Integration: Oversee the integration of AI technologies into business operations, ensuring seamless execution and maximum return on investment.
• Measure and Optimize: Set clear KPIs and performance metrics for AI projects, ensuring that AI-driven initiatives deliver measurable business outcomes.
• Customer-Centric Focus: Understand customer pain points and work with product and marketing teams to deliver AI-driven solutions that improve customer experiences and enhance business growth.

Qualifications:

• Education: Advanced degree (PhD, MSc, or MBA) in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, Business Administration, or related field.
• Experience:
  • 15+ years of experience in AI strategy, technology consulting, or a similar leadership role.
  • Proven experience in driving AI initiatives from concept to execution in a corporate or enterprise environment.
  • Strong understanding of AI technologies including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision.
  • Solid experience with AI development methodologies, tools, and frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn).
  • Demonstrated success in cross-functional collaboration with business, technical, and leadership teams.

• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities. Experience leading teams and driving change in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Business Acumen: Proven ability to translate technical concepts into strategic business objectives and outcomes. Familiarity with business models, product development, and operational processes.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex AI concepts to non-technical stakeholders effectively.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a specific industry (e.g., finance, healthcare, retail) where AI applications are highly relevant
• Experience with AI ethics, governance, and responsible AI practices.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and AI infrastructure.
• Knowledge of AI policy and regulatory considerations.

Why Join Us:

• Innovative Environment: Work with some of the brightest minds in AI and technology.
• Impactful Work: Play a pivotal role in shaping the AI strategy that will drive the future of our business.
• Growth Opportunities: Opportunities for continuous learning and career growth in a dynamic, fast-growing organization.
• Collaborative Culture: Work alongside passionate colleagues who are eager to innovate and push the boundaries of what's possible.

Additional Job Description:

Subsidiary:

PayPal

Travel Percent:

0

-

PayPal is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices.

Actual Compensation is based on various factors including but not limited to work location, and relevant skills and experience.

The total compensation for this practice may include an annual performance bonus (or other incentive compensation, as applicable), equity, and medical, dental, vision, and other benefits. For more information, visit https://www.paypalbenefits.com.

The U.S. national annual pay range for this role is

$120300 to $287100

For the majority of employees, PayPal's balanced hybrid work model offers 3 days in the office for effective in-person collaboration and 2 days at your choice of either the PayPal office or your home workspace, ensuring that you equally have the benefits and conveniences of both locations.

Our Benefits:

At PayPal, we’re committed to building an equitable and inclusive global economy. And we can’t do this without our most important asset—you. That’s why we offer benefits to help you thrive in every stage of life. We champion your financial, physical, and mental health by offering valuable benefits and resources to help you care for the whole you.

We have great benefits including a flexible work environment, employee shares options, health and life insurance and more. To learn more about our benefits please visit https://www.paypalbenefits.com.

Who We Are:

Click Here to learn more about our culture and community.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion 

PayPal provides equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.  In addition, PayPal will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.  If you are unable to submit an application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at talentaccommodations@paypal.com.

Belonging at PayPal: 

Our employees are central to advancing our mission, and we strive to create an environment where everyone can do their best work with a sense of purpose and belonging. Belonging at PayPal means creating a workplace with a sense of acceptance and security where all employees feel included and valued. We are proud to have a diverse workforce reflective of the merchants, consumers, and communities that we serve, and we continue to take tangible actions to cultivate inclusivity and belonging at PayPal.

Any general requests for consideration of your skills, please Join our Talent Community.

We know the confidence gap and imposter syndrome can get in the way of meeting spectacular candidates. Please don’t hesitate to apply.