Executive Director - Data, Analytics & AI

About the Opportunity

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. 

JOB SUMMARY

The Executive Director Data, Analytics, and AI is responsible for enterprise-wide data, analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) strategy. This role ensures that data and AI-driven initiatives generate business value, enhance decision-making, and drive innovation. The Executive Director Data, Analytics, and AI leads the transformation of data into strategic assets, ensuring the ethical and responsible use of AI and analytics. Responsibilities include establishing vision, governance, and operational framework for data and AI, fostering a data-driven culture, and evolving technological capabilities to meet enterprise goals.

• Lead the organization’s data, analytics, and AI strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives and measurable outcomes.
• Develop an enterprise operating model that integrates data governance, AI ethics, and analytics-driven insights into business processes.
• Foster data and AI-driven culture by upskilling teams and promoting literacy across the organization.
• Establish governance mechanisms to ensure trust in data assets, AI models, and analytics-driven decision-making.
• Ensure responsible AI use, bias mitigation, and compliance with regulatory requirements in AI applications.
• Partner with C-suite leaders to embed AI and analytics into strategic initiatives and digital transformation efforts.

This role is hybrid and in the office a minimum of three days a week to facilitate collaboration and teamwork. In-office presence is an essential part of our on-campus culture and allows for engaging directly with staff and students, sharing ideas, and contributing to a dynamic work environment. Being on-site allows for stronger connections, more effective problem-solving, and enhanced team synergy, all of which are key to achieving our collective goals and driving success.

*Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The University is unable to work sponsor for this role, now or in the future

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in data science, AI, computer science, business administration, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in data, analytics, AI strategy, or related leadership roles.
• Proven track record of integrating AI and analytics into business processes.
• Deep understanding of AI ethics, compliance, and governance frameworks.
• Strong executive presence with experience engaging C-level leaders and boards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

AI and Data Innovation Leadership

• Spearhead AI-driven business models, products, and services to enhance competitive advantage and profitability.
• Oversee AI research and development, ensuring the organization stays at the forefront of machine learning, predictive analytics, and natural language processing. Identify and integrate new data sources, AI models, and advanced analytics to unlock business value.
• Establish centralized AI model governance and monitoring to ensure accuracy, transparency, and compliance.
• Develop partnerships with technology providers, research institutions, and AI-driven startups to accelerate innovation.
• Compile and report impact and progress metrics including: revenue growth, cost savings, operational efficiencies, customer experience improvements, and regulatory compliance enabled by data, data quality etc.

Technical and Strategic Expertise

• Machine learning, deep learning, generative AI, natural language processing, computer vision.
• AI model governance, explainability, and regulatory compliance.
• Data and AI ethics, privacy, and security
• Cloud AI platforms, AI ops, MLOps, and data engineering pipelines.
• AI-driven automation tools and digital assistants.
• AI/ML frameworks and model monitoring.

Serve as Enterprise Data and Analytics Leader on

• Data integration, data lakes, data mesh, real-time analytics.
• Advanced analytics, predictive and prescriptive modeling.
• Data governance, MDM, metadata management, and stewardship.
• Business intelligence and visualization.

Leadership and Organizational Change Management

• Inspire and lead teams in AI, data, and analytics functions.
• Develop AI governance policies, ensuring ethical AI use across the organization.
• Build AI Centers of Excellence and cross-functional AI strategy teams.
• Influence enterprise-wide digital transformation through AI and data-driven insights.
• Communicate AI and data strategy effectively to C-level executives, stakeholders, and employees.

Regulatory and Ethical AI Governance

• Ensure compliance with global AI and data regulations.
• Promote AI transparency and responsible use in all applications.

Position Type

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

Expected Hiring Range:

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.