Director, AI Center of Excellence

Summary:

The leader of the Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence (AI COE) is a critical leadership role responsible for driving Cardinal Health's AI strategy, fostering innovation, and ensuring the successful implementation of AI solutions across the enterprise. This individual will lead a team of AI specialists, collaborate with business units, and champion the adoption of responsible and ethical AI practices. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of executive leadership, technical expertise, and business acumen, with a proven track record of building and scaling AI capabilities within a complex organization.

Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership & Vision:
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive AI strategy aligned with the organization's overall business objectives.
  • Maintain an enterprise perspective, identifying opportunities to leverage AI for competitive advantage and operational efficiency.
  • Drive continuous improvement and innovation within the AI COE, staying abreast of the latest advancements in AI and related technologies.
  • Apply critical thinking to complex problems and make strategic decisions, even when dealing with ambiguity and incomplete information.
• Team Leadership & Talent Development:
  • Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team of AI specialists, including data scientists, machine learning engineers, and AI architects.  This role also leads other Director-level employees. 
  • Develop and implement talent planning strategies to attract, retain, and develop top AI talent.
  • Foster a collaborative and innovative culture within the AI COE, encouraging knowledge sharing and experimentation.
• Stakeholder Management & Communication:
  • Effectively communicate the AI strategy and roadmap to stakeholders at all levels of the organization (developers to CEO/Board of Directors)
  • Build strong relationships with business unit leaders, IT partners, and other key stakeholders to drive AI adoption and alignment.
  • Present complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner, tailoring the message to the specific audience.
  • Demonstrate influence and navigate the corporate landscape to secure resources and support for AI initiatives.
• AI Project Execution & Delivery:
  • Oversee the entire lifecycle of AI projects, from ideation and proof-of-concept to deployment and ongoing maintenance.
  • Ensure the successful execution of AI projects, adhering to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
  • Manage global resources, including FTEs, contractors, and external partners
  • Apply financial acumen to develop business cases, manage budgets, and track the ROI of AI investments.
• Operational Excellence & Governance:
  • Establish and maintain operational metrics to track the performance and impact of AI solutions.
  • Implement robust AI governance and AI ethics frameworks to ensure responsible and compliant AI practices.
  • Oversee IT risk, security, and controls related to AI systems and data.
  • Drive simplification and efficiency in AI operations.
• Partnerships & Collaboration:
  • Collaborate effectively with partner roles across the organization, including IT, SOX, EA, and OpEx teams.
  • Maintain a strong understanding of business processes and industry trends to identify opportunities for AI innovation.
• Technology & Innovation:
  • Maintain a strong understanding of digital technologies and trends, with a focus on AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cloud computing.
  • Promote a culture of innovation and experimentation within the AI COE, encouraging the exploration of new AI techniques and technologies.
  • Ensure the security and appropriate controls are in place for AI systems and data.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated ability to think strategically, execute effectively, and drive continuous improvement. Strong social/emotional intelligence and critical thinking skills.
• Proven experience leading and managing high-performing technical teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex concepts and present them effectively to diverse audiences at all levels of the organization.

• Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization and build strong working relationships.  Experience with change management methodologies to guide stakeholders through change.

• Strong understanding of financial principles, including budgeting, business case development, and ROI analysis.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and programs, delivering results on time and within budget.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Deep understanding of AI and machine learning principles, techniques, and technologies.
  • Strong knowledge of data analytics, data governance, and data visualization.
  • Familiarity with cloud computing platforms (e.g., GCP) and AI development tools.
  • Knowledge of AI ethics and responsible AI principles.
  • Experience with MLOps practices and tools.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field required. Master's degree or Ph.D. preferred.

Anticipated base salary range: $165,000 - $255,000

Bonus eligible: Yes

Benefits: Cardinal Health offers a wide variety of benefits and programs to support health and well-being.

• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Paid time off plan
• Health savings account (HSA)
• 401k savings plan
• Access to wages before pay day with myFlexPay
• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Work-Life resources
• Paid parental leave
• Healthy lifestyle programs

Application window anticipated to close: 6/12/2025 *if interested in opportunity, please submit application as soon as possible.

The salary range listed is an estimate. Pay at Cardinal Health is determined by multiple factors including, but not limited to, a candidate’s geographical location, relevant education, experience and skills and an evaluation of internal pay equity.

Candidates who are back-to-work, people with disabilities, without a college degree, and Veterans are encouraged to apply.

Cardinal Health supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. Cardinal Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.

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