Jobs · Engineering · Virginia

Associate Director - AI & Data, Energy Providers

Guidehouse · McLean, VA · Yesterday
On-siteEngineering$149k–$248k/yrFull-time

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Associate Director to join our growing AI and Data practice, with a dedicated focus on commercial energy providers. This individual will be a hands-on leader, responsible for driving business growth through proactive sales efforts as well as shaping and delivering AI- and data-driven transformations. The Associate Director will oversee cross-functional teams and collaborate directly with client executives and business leaders to drive value through AI and data strategy, from concept through implementation of AI-based solutions.

Responsibilities

  • Drive new business opportunities by identifying client needs, shaping proposals, and expanding relationships into strategic partnerships.
  • Lead client engagements end-to-end from strategy through implementation, ensuring delivery excellence and measurable business outcomes.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key clients and stakeholders to grow accounts and influence buying decisions.
  • Drive end-to-end solution development leveraging AI and advanced analytics, with a strong emphasis on AI and data strategy, governance, and innovation to deliver scalable, client-centric outcomes.
  • Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies to inform solution development and position offerings competitively in the market.
  • Own business development activities including pipeline generation, proposal development, and strategic pursuits to meet growth targets.
  • Mentor and lead multi-disciplinary consulting teams including data scientists, engineers, and business consultants.
  • Contribute to recruiting, talent development, and thought leadership within the practice.
  • Apply deep knowledge of the energy and utilities industry to shape strategies around DER integration, energy transition, grid modernization, regulatory compliance, and customer experience.
  • Interpret regulatory and policy changes to identify opportunities for AI and data enablement and create new revenue streams.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree in STEM field.
  • Seven (7) or more years of experience in AI, data strategy, and analytics consulting, with a proven track record in business development—including client relationship management, opportunity identification, and contribution to revenue growth.
  • Five (5) or more years of experience leading data-driven transformation initiatives within the utilities or broader energy sector, with a focus on strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and change management.
  • Experience using AI/ML technologies, modern data platforms (e.g., Snowflake, Databricks, AWS/GCP/Azure), and advanced analytics methodologies, with the ability to translate technical capabilities into strategic value propositions during client engagements.
  • Experience across the business development lifecycle—including opportunity identification, capture strategy, and proposal development—while ensuring alignment with technical delivery.
  • Experience leading large-scale AI and analytics engagements from concept through execution, while simultaneously expanding client relationships and uncovering new revenue opportunities.
  • Experience in sourcing, structuring, and executing strategic partnerships between technology providers and business stakeholders to accelerate both delivery and market expansion.

Qualifications (Nice to Have)

  • Ability to engage and influence diverse audiences—from C-suite executives (CIO, CISO, CDO) to technical teams—bridging business objectives with technical solutions.
  • Skilled at motivating and guiding multi-disciplinary teams of AI and data specialists to deliver at scale while fostering a growth-oriented culture.
  • Exceptional communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills that drive trust, collaboration, and commercial success.
  • Master’s Degree in Data Engineering, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, or related technical field.
  • AI/LLM Certifications.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP).

Pay

The annual salary range for this position is $149,000.00–$248,000.00. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, security clearances, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

Benefits

  • Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
  • Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus
  • Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Basic Life & Supplemental Life
  • Health Savings Account, Dental/Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
  • Student Loan PayDown
  • Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
  • Skills Development & Certifications
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
  • Emergency Back-Up Childcare Program
  • Mobility Stipend

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