Sr. Director, Artificial Intelligence Strategy

James Hardie

  • Chicago, IL
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 day ago
About James HardieJames Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we're united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.For more information, visit .SummaryLocation: Chicago IL
Hybrid: 3 days per week in officeThe Sr. Director, Artificial Intelligence Strategist will lead enterprise-wide AI initiatives that drive innovation, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth. This role is responsible for identifying high-impact AI opportunities, overseeing implementation, and ensuring alignment with business goals. The Sr. Director will collaborate with executive leadership, portfolio companies, and technical teams to deliver measurable value while managing risk and promoting ethical AI practices. This leader will also engage with the Board of Directors to provide strategic insights and updates on AI progress and governance.What You'll Do:
  • Shape Strategy: Develop and lead the enterprise AI strategy in partnership with executive leadership and advise the Board on AI trends, risks, and opportunities.
  • Identify Opportunities: Pinpoint high-impact AI use cases across underwriting, asset management, operations, and portfolio companies. Evaluate proposals and guide prioritization.
  • Drive Implementation: Oversee the deployment of AI tools and platforms, ensuring seamless integration, measurable outcomes, and adherence to best practices.
  • Measure Impact: Define and track key performance metrics such as ROI, cost savings, and operational efficiency.
  • Manage Risk: Establish governance frameworks and ensure compliance with ethical and regulatory standards in AI adoption.
  • Promote Adoption: Lead internal training and advocacy efforts to build AI literacy and foster a culture of innovation.
  • Lead Projects: Manage multiple AI initiatives from scoping to post-launch, aligning cross-functional teams and external partners to deliver results on time and within budget.
  • Represent the Company: Serve as an AI thought leader at industry events, panels, and executive briefings.
What You'll Bring:Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Business, or a related field (Master's preferred).
  • 10+ years of experience in AI integration, digital transformation, or strategic technology leadership.
  • Proven hands-on experience with AI technologies such as natural language processing, computer vision, and deep learning (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, Hugging Face).
  • Track record of leading enterprise-scale AI initiatives; experience with investment or portfolio company environments is a plus.
Skills & Competencies
  • Deep understanding of AI/ML applications and their business impact.
  • Strong executive presence with the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and persuasively.
  • Ability to influence without authority and drive change across diverse stakeholder groups.
  • Analytical mindset with a focus on performance metrics and ROI.
  • Proficiency in programming languages (Python, R, Java, or C++) and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau).
What You'll Receive:As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $230,000.00 to $280,000.00. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits, and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.
  • Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
  • Insurance: day-one health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
  • Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
  • Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
  • Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
  • Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
  • Purpose. Impact. Community:
  • More:
#LI-LD1Build a Better Future for All - Apply now!James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits,
including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces
Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.

James Hardie