Director of Information Technology & Artificial Intelligence

The Director of Information Technology & Artificial Intelligence leads the organization’s technology strategy, operations, and infrastructure while personally driving the design, build, and adoption of artificial intelligence across the enterprise. This role oversees all aspects of information technology, including ERP systems, infrastructure, cybersecurity, data governance, end-user support, and vendor management. It also serves as the company’s hands-on AI expert and internal leader for AI strategy, governance, and deployment: the person who evaluates the tools, builds the solutions, and makes technology investments translate into measurable efficiency, better decisions, and stronger business performance. This is a working leadership role for someone who builds, not only plans.

Essential Duties:

Information Technology Leadership:

• Direct the overall IT function, including enterprise applications, infrastructure, network operations, cybersecurity, technical support, and system administration.
• Oversee the SAP environment and supporting reporting technologies, including BW, SAC, EDI, and data integration platforms.
• Ensure the reliability, security, and performance of technology systems supporting manufacturing and business operations.
• Lead cybersecurity initiatives, user access management, business continuity planning, and disaster recovery programs.
• Establish and maintain data governance standards, system controls, and technology policies.
• Manage technology vendors, contracts, and service providers to ensure alignment with organizational objectives and budget requirements.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and development to the Information Technology team.

Artificial Intelligence Leadership:

• Develop and execute the organization’s artificial intelligence strategy and implementation roadmap.
• Personally evaluate, design, build, and deploy AI solutions, including large language model applications, automation, machine learning, and integrations into SAP and the company’s reporting environment.
• Identify and prioritize AI opportunities across Finance, Sales, Supply Chain, Operations, and other business functions.
• Lead the deployment and adoption of AI solutions, including rolling out solutions already in development, so they become tools the business actually uses.
• Establish governance frameworks addressing AI security, data privacy, vendor selection, risk management, and acceptable use standards.
• Promote enterprise-wide AI literacy and adoption through training, education, and change management initiatives.
• Measure and communicate the business value of AI initiatives through defined performance metrics and return-on-investment analysis.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Hands-on experience building and shipping artificial intelligence and automation solutions (large language models, machine learning, data pipelines, RPA) in a business environment, not only directing or purchasing them.
• Experience developing and implementing AI governance frameworks and enterprise AI programs.
• Progressive leadership experience in Information Technology, including responsibility for ERP systems, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and enterprise applications.
• Experience leading technology transformations, enterprise system implementations, or large-scale digital initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of information security, technology governance, and risk management practices.
• Proven ability to lead and develop technical teams while collaborating effectively with executive leadership and business stakeholders.
• Sound judgment on build-versus-buy decisions, and the ability to explain technical trade-offs clearly to a non-technical leadership team.
• Experience with SAP, including S/4HANA, BW, SAC, or related technologies.
• Experience with cloud platforms such as Microsoft Azure or Amazon Web Services (AWS).
• Background in manufacturing, consumer packaged goods (CPG), distribution, or other operational environments a plus.