AI Governance Lead

Western Governors University•Salt Lake City, UT

11d•$161,000 - $249,500•Onsite

About The Position

The AI Governance Lead develops and implements governance and control frameworks for AI tools and technologies across WGU. This highly visible, cross-functional position partners with Security, Legal, IT, Product, Business teams, and external vendors to enable responsible AI adoption while addressing security, privacy, regulatory, and ethical considerations. The role also serves as a change agent and catalyst for innovation, leading AI usage policies and maintaining governance artifacts such as external data sources, proofs of concept, and supporting materials. The position is full-time and in-office five days per week at WGU’s Salt Lake City, Utah office. It requires occasional travel of up to 20%, including attendance at designated company summits, typically one to two per year. The listed pay range is $161,000 to $249,500. The position is eligible for bonuses and a range of benefits, including insurance coverage, retirement savings, tuition discounts, and flexible paid time off.

Requirements

Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Machine Learning, Math, Physics, or a related field; equivalent relevant education and/or experience may be considered where appropriate.
At least 5 years of AI, Data Science, or Machine Learning experience.
At least 5 years of experience collaborating with business and other teams.
At least 3 years of experience with policy development, frameworks, compliance assurance and auditing, governance, stakeholder and change management, and AI ethical education.
At least 3 years of experience with cloud architecture, preferably AWS.
At least 3 years of experience with data lakes, preferably Databricks.
At least 3 years of experience selecting and managing external vendors.
Proven track record developing and implementing governance frameworks for AI tools and technologies.
Experience with ML lifecycle management.
Strong knowledge of regulatory requirements, industry standards, and best practices related to AI governance and compliance.
Excellent communication, collaboration, analytical, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to influence senior executive leadership and articulate trade-offs associated with AI tools and business solutions.
Strong business acumen and ability to persuade, navigate ambiguity, and maintain a positive approach in challenging situations.

Nice To Haves

PhD.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute AI governance strategies for responsible and ethical use of AI tools and technologies.
Establish cross-functional processes for AI tool approval, access, and ongoing maintenance, aligned with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
Develop policies, standards, and procedures for AI use, with emphasis on security, privacy, ethics, and responsible innovation.
Assess AI tool capabilities and risks, articulate trade-offs, and recommend appropriate uses and access across the organization.
Lead AI usage policies and maintain governance artifacts, including external data sources, proofs of concept, and supporting materials.
Educate stakeholders on governance best practices, policies, and compliance requirements to foster responsible AI use.
Lead strategically important initiatives across large cross-functional teams and influence senior leaders, technical experts, business stakeholders, and external vendors.