Director – AI & Data Strategy (Retail Transformation)

Intellibus Consulting is a boutique engineering and AI transformation firm that builds Intelligent Business Platforms for enterprises undergoing large-scale digital modernization.

Before applying for this role, please read the following information about this opportunity found below.
Hybrid role based in or near Phoenix, AZ (client HQ proximity required)
We are not slide-only consultants. We are hands-on builders, and everyone, including leadership, is expected to roll up their sleeves in delivery.
We are leading AI-driven modernization for a large brick-and-mortar retail organization, spanning:Store operations systemsMerchandising platformsSupply chain and logisticsCustomer-facing digital experiencesEnterprise data and AI platformsThis role will own AI strategy, execution, and retail business transformation, while also building and scaling Intellibus’ Retail Business Unit.
Job DescriptionWe are seeking a Director – AI & Data Strategy (Retail Transformation) to lead executive-level AI initiatives and build a scalable retail delivery practice for Intellibus.This role sits at the intersection of:Retail business strategyAI & data platformsEngineering executionYou will partner directly with CIO, CTO, CDO, and business executives, translate strategy into executable programs, and oversee delivery across multiple squads covering:AI experimentationData foundationsEngineering modernizationThis is a hands-on leadership role for someone who is equally comfortable in the boardroom and deep in delivery planning and technical reviews.
What We Are Specifically Looking ForWe are targeting leaders with experience in:Brick-and-mortar retail, grocery, or omnichannel enterprisesMerchandising and supply chain platformsStore operations and POS ecosystemsRetail data platforms and analyticsAI applied to operational decision-makingIdeal backgrounds include companies such as:large grocery chains, big-box retailers, or retail technology divisions where technology had to coexist with real-world operations.Retail transformation experience is mandatory.
Key ResponsibilitiesExecutive Leadership & StrategyServe as the primary Intellibus partner to the client’s Executive Leadership Team.Translate business priorities into a prioritized portfolio of AI and data initiatives.Lead executive AI roadmap reviews and value realization discussions.Ensure all initiatives align with governance, compliance, and ethical AI standards.Act as a trusted advisor balancing ambition with technical and operational reality.
Program Direction & Delivery OversightOwn delivery across three core workstreams.AI pilots and rapid experimentation.Data foundations and integration platforms.Engineering excellence and modernization.Coordinate ~20–30 engineers, data scientists, and delivery leads.Manage execution plans, sprint cadence, and dependency resolution.Track KPIs including productivity, cycle time, and business impact.Ensure integration across AI, data, and engineering initiatives.
Technical & Operational LeadershipProvide architectural oversight for AI and data platforms.Guide AI problem framing, experimentation design, and success metrics.Advise on cloud platforms, MLOps, and data engineering practices.Understand retail systems (POS, loyalty, merchandising, supply chain) and how AI enhances them.Review and approve major technical deliverables.
Team & Practice LeadershipBuild and scale Intellibus’ Retail AI delivery practice.Mentor squad leads and technical managers.Standardize methodologies across AI, data, and engineering teams.Partner with internal operations to scale delivery globally.Represent Intellibus’ standards of engineering excellence and ethical AI.
Governance, Reporting & Value RealizationEstablish operating cadence.Weekly squad syncs.Bi-weekly sprint reviews.Monthly executive checkpoints.Deliver executive dashboards quantifying ROI and operational impact.Publish quarterly AI practice updates and roadmap adjustments.Drive continuous improvement across delivery and governance.
Required Qualifications12–20 years in technology, AI, data, or digital transformation.5+ years in executive-facing leadership or consulting roles.Direct retail, grocery, or supply chain domain experience (mandatory).
Strong understanding of:AI/ML systems and experimentation.Data engineering and analytics platforms.Cloud and modern software architecture.Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams (20–30+).Executive communication and influence skills.Consulting or systems integration background strongly preferred.
Compensation: $80-$100/hr
Interview Process15-minute introductory video call with a member of our team.Proctored GQ assessment and slide-ware exercise to evaluate problem-solving and presentation skills.Leadership and Executive interviews (panel or individual sessions, as needed).Offer decision and onboarding. xzbcwsv
If you are interested in reaching out, please apply, and our team will contact you within the hour.