As Director of AI, you will help lead and shape Pioneer’s AI practice by delivering high-impact client solutions and scaling AI capabilities across the firm. You will play a pivotal role in shaping AI offerings, refining strategy, driving business development, and building a world-class AI team. This role blends technical expertise, strategic vision, and leadership to position Pioneer as a trusted AI consulting partner. WHAT YOU’LL DO Deliver Early Client Impact Lead the successful delivery of Pioneer’s AI engagements, applying advanced AI solutions to solve complex client challenges. Demonstrate clear business value through hands-on execution and close client collaboration. Build and Develop the AI Team Recruit, mentor, and grow a high-performing AI team capable of executing and scaling AI solutions across projects. Foster a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and excellence within the AI practice. Shape Integrated AI Offerings Partner with general managers and national practice directors to identify AI-driven opportunities and develop AI-enabled products and services. Integrate AI capabilities into Pioneer’s broader consulting portfolio to enhance client outcomes and market differentiation. Refine Our AI Strategy Collaborate with senior leaders to evolve the firm’s AI roadmap in ways that align with emerging technologies, client needs, and market trends. Champion responsible AI practices, including data ethics and transparency, to build trust and sustainable competitive advantage. Drive AI Business Development Work closely with Pioneer leaders, marketing and sales teams to develop and execute a go-to-market strategy for AI services. Identify new markets and client segments, support sales enablement, and position Pioneer as a leading AI advisor. Represent Pioneer at industry events and contribute thought leadership. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Innovation Collaborate with delivery and marketing teams to ensure AI insights drive service development and client engagement strategies. Promote experimentation with emerging AI technologies to maintain Pioneer’s innovation edge. Data & Technology Integration Partner closely with data engineering, cloud, and IT teams to ensure scalable, secure, and robust AI architecture. Emphasis on operationalizing AI solutions. WHAT YOU’LL BRING Experience: 10+ years of professional experience working in data & analytics in a project management, engineering, or development role. 5+ years of relevant experience in an external consulting or industry role, with experience leading teams in data, analytics, and/or AI. 3+ years of professional experience in AI application development, with a strong track record of delivering production-ready solutions preferred. Technical Expertise: Hands-on expertise with Microsoft Copilot Studio (building custom copilots, leveraging plugins/connectors). Proficiency in Azure AI services (e.g., Azure OpenAI, Cognitive Services, Bot Framework). Strong skills in Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate) and/or low-code development environments. Familiarity with REST APIs, GraphQL, and integration architectures. Consulting Mindset: Ability to translate business needs into technical solutions, with an emphasis on clear communication, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving. Builder's Spirit: You enjoy creating — not just maintaining — and you thrive in fast-paced environments where curiosity, experimentation, and collaboration are key. Ethical AI Awareness: A working knowledge of responsible AI practices, bias mitigation, security standards, and data privacy requirements. Bonus Points If You Also Bring: Familiarity with Copilot extensions for Dynamics 365, Teams, or SharePoint. Skills in JavaScript/TypeScript, Python, or other backend web languages. Knowledge of industry-specific AI applications (e.g., healthcare, manufacturing, financial services). Benefits The estimated salary range for this role is $170,000-$220,000 annually. This is based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skillset and years and depth of experience. This may differ from location to location. Bonuses and other incentives are awarded at the Company’s discretion and are based upon individual contributions and overall company performance. Pioneer is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes meaningful time off and paid holidays, parental leave, 401(k) including employer match, tuition reimbursement, and a broad range of health and welfare benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, long and short-term disability, etc.