Head of AI Strategy

Heads up: this is not a live role. Axial Search recruits for clients across North America — we post representative roles like this so candidates can raise their hand before we have a specific mandate. Apply today and we'll reach out the next time something like this comes up.We build long-term relationships with AI, data, and transformation leaders across every industry vertical. Visit our website to learn more about our process and to find free tools to support your job search — including our live job market dashboard with salary, skills, and hiring-trend data from thousands of AI transformation roles.What the market looks likeAI strategy hiring in financial services has become one of the sharpest segments of the market — mid-to-large buy-side, sell-side, and insurance organizations have all moved AI from an innovation line item to a board-level topic. Head-of-strategy roles in the sector sit close to the CEO and often directly in front of regulators, with total compensation generally in a $250K–$400K band including bonus. The strongest candidates we place bring a rare combination of strategic depth, regulatory fluency, and real execution credibility.Typical job responsibilitiesSet and own the firm's overall AI strategy across business linesServe as the senior point of contact for AI initiatives at the executive and board levelBuild and lead the AI strategy function, including FTEs, external partners, and cross-functional working groupsDrive enterprise prioritization, investment decisions, and portfolio management across AI use casesPartner closely with CIO, CDO, COO, and business-line leadership on executionRepresent the firm externally on AI strategy — industry forums, regulator engagement, and press as appropriateOwn the firm's position on emerging regulation and industry standardsHold the line on AI investments that deliver real value and shut down those that don'tTypical candidate requirements12+ years in strategy, consulting, or AI or transformation leadership, with senior financial services experience strongly preferredDemonstrated ownership of firm-wide or business-line-wide AI or digital strategyDeep understanding of the regulatory and risk environment for AI in financial servicesProven ability to lead at the C-suite and board levelStrong ability to operate across both business and technical stakeholdersExecutive gravitas, strong writing, and public-speaking comfort

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