In this role, you will serve as a pivotal bridge between cutting-edge technology and business strategy, driving the evolution of our biotech client's AI landscape. You will be responsible for architecting and executing a comprehensive AI roadmap that identifies high-impact machine learning use cases and translates them into scalable, value-driven solutions. 

By leading cross-functional innovation initiatives—from initial proof-of-concepts to enterprise-wide deployment—you will foster a culture of experimentation while ensuring robust governance and ethical AI practices. As a strategic advisor to executive leadership, you will turn complex technical advancements into actionable growth opportunities, ensuring the organization remains at the forefront of AI-driven transformation.

About the Company:

Our client is a world-renowned, commercial-stage biotech powerhouse leveraging high-scale AWS/Databricks ecosystems to build autonomous AI agents that will help accelerate life-saving drug discovery and launches.

*This role requires on-site office presence 1x per week, on average.

Key Responsibilities:

AI Strategy & Roadmapping

• Develop and maintain the organizations AI strategy, aligning with business objectives and long-term vision.
• Identify, assess, and prioritize AI/ML use cases with clear ROI potential.
• Create strategic AI roadmaps, including technology modernization, capability building, and implementation
• sequencing.

Innovation Leadership

• Lead AI innovation initiatives, including pilots, POCs, pilot accelerators, and cross-functional innovation labs.
• Evaluate emerging AI technologies, tools, and vendors, providing recommendations for adoption.
• Promote a culture of innovation by driving experimentation and continuous improvement.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with business stakeholders to translate needs into actionable AI requirements.
• Work closely with data science, engineering, and product teams to develop scalable AI solutions.
• Communicate strategy, progress, risks, and outcomes to executives and broader teams.

AI Governance & Adoption

• Contribute to frameworks for AI ethics, risk management, and responsible AI usage.
• Support enterprise-wide AI adoption, including training, change management, and operating model evolution.
• Establish KPIs to track impact and performance of AI initiatives.

Market & Technology Intelligence

• Monitor emerging trends in generative AI, automation, MLOps, and related technologies.
• Benchmark competitive landscape and industry best practices.
• Provide insights for strategic decision-making and portfolio prioritization.

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in AI strategy, digital transformation, AI product management; 10+ years of strategy,
• innovation, and product management experience
• Strong understanding of AI/ML technologies, including predictive analytics, NLP, computer vision, and generative AI
• Experience driving end-to-end AI initiatives—from ideation and business case development to deployment and scaling
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, compelling narratives for executives
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Hands-on experience with tools/platforms such as Azure AI, AWS AI, GCP Vertex AI, or similar (preferred)
• Background in consulting, enterprise strategy, or innovation labs is a plus

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience implementing MLOps, data governance, and production AI environments
• Familiarity with frameworks such as CRISP-DM, Responsible AI guidelines, or model risk management
• MBA, MS in AI/ML, Computer Science, Data Science, or related field (optional but beneficial)
• Proven success influencing stakeholders at multiple organizational levels

Compensation: $90– $110 per hour 

The hourly rate offered will be commensurate with experience, skills, qualifications, and other relevant factors. 

About the Search: This search is being managed by Summit Strategic Search on behalf of our client. This is a contract-based assignment where we the recruitment and employment administration. While you will be engaged through our firm, the end client retains final authority over the selection of personnel for their project team. All offers of engagement are contingent upon the end client’s approval, project requirements, and successful completion of the onboarding process. 

Equal Opportunity Commitment: We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.   

Accommodations & Support: We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities during the application and interview process. If you require assistance, please contact us at [email protected]. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and provide all contractors with dedicated reporting channels to ensure a safe, professional work environment. 

Onboarding Requirements: Due to the regulated nature of our client’s industry and the requirement for on-site presence in Union County, NJ, all candidates must successfully complete the end client’s onboarding protocols. This typically includes a background check, drug screening, and adherence to site-specific security and health policies.