Data and AI Practice Lead

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 14,500+, and has 58 offices in 21 countries within key global markets. Our challenge We are seeking an accomplished Data and AI Practice Lead to head our Data and AI initiatives across North America . This leadership role will be responsible for defining the practice vision, shaping solution offerings, strengthening delivery capabilities, and driving innovation in data and artificial intelligence across industries. The ideal candidate is a strategic leader with deep expertise in data engineering, AI/ML technologies, and cloud ecosystems — capable of guiding clients on their transformation journeys while developing high-performing teams and scalable delivery models. 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 Toronto, ON is CAD $250k – CAD $300k/year & benefits (see below). The Role Responsibilities: Practice Strategy & Growth Define and execute the Data and AI practice strategy for North America in alignment with global objectives. Build differentiated capabilities across data engineering, data modernization, advanced analytics, machine learning, and generative AI. Develop reusable frameworks, accelerators, and reference architectures that enhance solution delivery. Establish strategic partnerships with hyperscalers (AWS, Azure, GCP) and data technology vendors to expand the company's ecosystem presence. Client Engagement & Solution Leadership Serve as a trusted advisor to senior client executives on data and AI strategies, architecture, and transformation programs. Lead the design of enterprise-scale Data & AI solutions and ensure alignment with client goals and industry best practices. Collaborate with business development teams to shape solution narratives, proposals, and executive presentations. Represent the organization in client briefings, industry forums, and thought leadership engagements. Delivery Excellence & Innovation Provide leadership oversight for the delivery of complex Data & AI programs across industries. Ensure delivery excellence through robust governance, quality standards, and performance optimization. Drive innovation by identifying emerging technologies and integrating them into new offerings and accelerators. Promote best practices in data architecture, data governance, MLOps, and responsible AI implementation. Team Leadership & Capability Development Build and mentor a high-performing team of architects, data engineers, and AI specialists. Drive capability development and certification programs to strengthen technical depth across the practice. Foster a collaborative and innovation-driven culture within the regional and global Data & AI community. Requirements: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related field; MBA preferred. 18+ years of IT services or consulting experience, with at least 7 years in Data, Analytics, or AI leadership roles. Proven experience building and leading Data & AI practices or service lines within a consulting or technology environment. Strong understanding of cloud data platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP), AI/ML frameworks, and data modernization approaches. Demonstrated success in delivering enterprise-scale transformation programs. Excellent executive communication, stakeholder management, and presentation skills. Preferred, but not required: Cross-industry experience, ideally across Financial Services, Insurance, Fintech. Recognized thought leadership or active participation in the AI/ML and Data ecosystem. Strong collaboration and partnership management skills with cloud and technology vendors. Ability to travel within North America as needed. We offer: A multinational organization with 58 offices in 21 countries and the possibility to work abroad. 15 days (3 weeks) of paid annual leave plus an additional 10 days of personal leave (floating days and sick days). A comprehensive insurance plan including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability. Flexible hybrid policy. RRSP with employer's contribution up to 4%. A higher education certification policy. On-demand Udemy for Business for all Synechron employees with free access to more than 5000 curated courses. Coaching opportunities with experienced colleagues from our Financial Innovation Labs (FinLabs) and Center of Excellences (CoE) groups. Cutting edge projects at the world's leading tier-one banks, financial institutions and insurance firms. A truly diverse, fun-loving and global work culture. S YNECHRON'S DIVERSITY & INCLUSION STATEMENT Diversity & Inclusion are fundamental to our culture, and Synechron is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative 'Same Difference' is committed to fostering an inclusive culture – promoting equality, diversity and an environment that is respectful to all. We strongly believe that a diverse workforce helps build stronger, successful businesses as a global company. We encourage applicants from across diverse backgrounds, race, ethnicities, religion, age, marital status, gender, sexual orientations, or disabilities to apply. We empower our global workforce by offering flexible workplace arrangements, mentoring, internal mobility, learning and development programs, and more. All employment decisions at Synechron are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to the applicant's gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disabled or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.