Jobs · Information Technology · California

Senior Director, Data Services and Artificial Intelligence

Driscoll's · Watsonville, CA · 2 wk ago
On-siteInformation Technology$172k–$300k/yrFull-time

About the role

The Senior Director of Data Services and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will lead the strategy, delivery, and governance of enterprise data services and artificial intelligence initiatives. This role is responsible for building and scaling data platforms, driving the adoption of advanced analytics and AI, and enabling data-driven decision-making across the organization.

Responsibilities

  • Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute comprehensive enterprise data and AI strategy aligned with business goals
    Drive the vision for a modern data ecosystem that supports advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI use cases
    Lead, mentor, and scale a high-performing team across data engineering, data architecture, data governance, and Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML)

  • Data Platform & Engineering: Oversee the development and maintenance of scalable, secure, and efficient data platforms (e.g., data lakes, data warehouses, data pipelines)
    Champion best practices in data modeling, ETL/ELT processes, metadata management, and data quality
    Lead data engineering teams to ensure reliable, high-quality data delivery and real-time streaming capabilities

  • Team Leadership: Hire, coach, and develop top talent across data, analytics, and AI disciplines
    Foster a culture of continuous learning, experimentation, and cross-functional collaboration
    Promote data literacy and data-driven decision-making across the organization

  • Analytics & AI/ML: Oversee model development, validation, deployment, and monitoring
    Ensure responsible AI principles are applied, including fairness, explainability, and ethical use of AI
    Enable self-service analytics and BI platforms for business teams

  • Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment of data objectives and initiatives
    Serve as the primary point of contact for data-related issues and concerns
    Communicate data strategy, goals, and progress to employees, partners, and vendors

  • Policy Development & Compliance: Define and implement policies that govern data acquisition, storage, access, processing, and usage across the organization
    Ensure compliance with data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) and manage data risk
    Lead internal and external audits and assessments, ensuring the organization meets all compliance requirements

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or related field (Master’s or PhD preferred)
  • 5 years of relevant AI / Data Science experience in algorithm, data analysis, statistical analysis, data modelling & ML experience (AWS)
  • At least 10-15 years of progressive experience in data management, analytics, and AI/ML with a proven track record in a senior leadership role
  • Good understanding of Python, R, SQL, RDBMS, NoSQL databases and big data solutions, architecture issues
  • Familiarity with basic statistical techniques for prediction and optimization Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) Architecture for Generative AI
  • Experience with AI frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch), orchestration tools (Airflow, Kubeflow), and data visualization platforms (Tableau, Power BI)
  • Deep understanding of data management principles, frameworks, and best practices, including DAMA-DMBOK, FAIR data principles, and data quality standards
  • Strong familiarity with global data privacy and protection regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA, ensuring compliance and ethical handling of data across all jurisdictions

Qualifications

  • PhD or Masters in Computer Science/Statistics or related fields
  • Strong presentation skills for internal, external, and executive audiences
  • A valid passport and the ability to travel internationally without restrictions

Benefits

Driscoll’s is committed to a culture of care and offers an attractive benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, and disability coverage for positions working more than 30 hours per week. Other benefits include: 401(k) with employer match, profit-sharing participation, paid sick time, paid vacation, paid personal and family care leave, and a free Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

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