Artificial Intelligence Practice Lead

synechron; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 240,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Synechron is seeking an AI Practice Lead to drive the North American AI agenda across BFSI and other sectors. You will shape strategy, build offerings, and ensure successful end-to-end delivery of AI projects for major clients.

Ideal candidates have deep AI/ML expertise, 15+ years in the field, and proven leadership within IT services or consulting. The role emphasizes strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement, and mentoring high-performing teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, AI/ML, Data Science, or related fields. A PhD or MBA is preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in AI, machine learning, or advanced analytics, with at least 8 years in a leadership role within IT services or consulting.
• Strong knowledge of the North American market, with a successful track record of working with clients across various industries.
• In-depth understanding of AI technologies and platforms (TensorFlow, PyTorch, AWS/Azure AI services, NLP, deep learning, computer vision).
• Hands-on experience with LLMs, including OpenAI and AWS Bedrock models, as part of technical expertise.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and expand the AI practice in the North America region, driving innovation and growth.
• Develop AI capabilities, client relationships, and successful delivery of AI-driven solutions across industries.
• Oversee delivery of AI projects, act as senior AI advisor, and scale AI technologies within client ecosystems.
• Stay updated on AI trends and represent the company as a thought leader at events.
• Mentor AI professionals, build a strong talent pool, and foster continuous learning.

Skills

Leadership

AI/ML expertise

Strategic thinking

Client engagement

Team mentoring

Cloud platforms

LLMs

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, AI/ML, Data Science (PhD/MBA preferred)

Tools

TensorFlow

PyTorch

AWS/Azure AI services

NLP

Computer Vision

Job description

We are At Synechron, we believe in the power of digital to transform businesses for the better. Our global consulting firm combines creativity and innovative technology to deliver industry-leading digital solutions. Synechron's progressive technologies and optimization strategies span end-to-end Artificial Intelligence, Consulting, Digital, Cloud & DevOps, Data, and Software Engineering, servicing an array of noteworthy financial services and technology firms. Through research and development initiatives in our FinLabs we develop solutions for modernization, from Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain to Data Science models, Digital Underwriting, mobile-first applications and more. Over the last 20+ years, our company has been honored with multiple employer awards, recognizing our commitment to our talented teams. With top clients to boast about, Synechron has a global workforce of 17,000+, and has 58 offices in 22 countries within key global markets.

Our challenge

The AI Practice Lead will be responsible for leading and expanding the AI practice in the region, focusing on driving innovation, delivering cutting-edge AI solutions, and accelerating business growth. This role involves building strong client relationships, developing AI capabilities, and ensuring successful delivery of AI-driven solutions across various industries. The ideal candidate will have a blend of technical expertise, business acumen, and leadership experience in AI and IT services.

Additional Information*

The base salary for this position will vary based on geography and other factors. In accordance with law, the base salary for this role if filled within Charlotte, NC is $240k - $260k/year & benefits (see below).

The Role

Responsibilities

• Practice Strategy & Development:
  Develop and execute the AI practice strategy for North America, aligning with the global AI vision and organizational objectives.
  Establish and grow the AI practice by creating new service offerings and enhancing existing ones to meet market demands across BFSI industry.
  Define AI governance frameworks, best practices, and methodologies to ensure effective and scalable implementation of AI solutions.
• Business Development & Revenue Growth:
  Partner with sales and business development teams to create go-to-market strategies, generate leads, and develop AI-centric proposals for new and existing clients.
  Build and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including C-level executives, to secure large-scale AI projects and partnerships.
• AI Solution Delivery & Client Engagement:
  Oversee the successful delivery of AI projects across diverse sectors, ensuring high-quality outcomes that meet client business objectives.
  Act as a senior AI advisor for key clients, providing thought leadership and strategic consulting on how AI can transform their business operations and drive value.
  Ensure the adoption of AI solutions by working closely with clients to integrate and scale AI technologies within their business ecosystems.
• Innovation & Thought Leadership:
  Stay updated on the latest AI trends, technologies, and tools (machine learning, deep learning, NLP, computer vision, robotics) and drive innovation within the practice.
  Represent the company as a thought leader at industry events, conferences, and forums, contributing to the company's reputation in AI.
  Publish white papers, blogs, and case studies showcasing the company's AI capabilities and successful client engagements.
• Team Leadership & Talent Development:
  Lead and mentor a team of AI professionals, including data scientists, AI engineers, and consultants, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
  Build and scale the AI talent pool through hiring, training, and developing high-performing AI experts.
  Create opportunities for career growth and skill enhancement within the AI team, ensuring they stay updated with the latest AI advancements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, AI/ML, Data Science, or related fields. A PhD or MBA is preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in AI, machine learning, or advanced analytics, with at least 8 years in a leadership role within IT services or consulting.
• Proven experience in managing and scaling AI practices, delivering large-scale AI projects, and driving business growth.
• Strong knowledge of the North American market, with a successful track record of working with clients across various industries.
• In-depth understanding of AI technologies and platforms (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, AWS/Azure AI services, NLP, deep learning, computer vision).
• Expertise in AI/ML models, algorithms, data engineering, and cloud-based AI solutions.
• Experience in integrating AI solutions into enterprise systems and delivering AI-driven digital transformation projects.
• Hands‑on experience with LLMs, including OpenAI and AWS Bedrock models, as part of technical expertise.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and team management skills with the abilit