Global Director of AI

Worthington Steel•Chicago, IL

70d•Hybrid

About The Position

As the Global AI Leader at Tempel Steel, you will serve as the company's subject matter expert and champion for Artificial Intelligence (AI). You'll lead the development and execution of Tempel's AI strategy, identifying and prioritizing opportunities across manufacturing, supply chain, customer engagement, and corporate functions. Partnering with cross-functional teams, you'll deliver measurable improvements in customer satisfaction, quality, throughput, cost, safety, and working capital. This position will also serve as the primary liaison with Worthington Steel's corporate AI office and external consulting partners, ensuring Tempel's operational needs and workforce realities are well represented in enterprise-wide initiatives. Over time, the role may expand to include leadership of other strategic transformation programs.

Requirements

Bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, Electrical/Computer Engineering, Data Science, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in digital transformation, advanced analytics, or operations-preferably in industrial manufacturing or information technology.
Proven track record of leading AI/ML initiatives at scale and delivering measurable business value.
Experience working with global organizations and cross-border teams.
Exposure to IT and OT systems (e.g., MES, quality systems, automation).
Deep understanding of AI/ML frameworks, cloud platforms, and ERP systems.
Strong technical understanding of AI/ML applications in manufacturing and customer engagement.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts for non-experts.
Demonstrated program and vendor management expertise.
Proficiency in ethical AI practices and data governance.
Strategic thinker with the ability to convert emerging technologies into business outcomes.
Empathetic and culturally aware leader with strong workforce management skills.
Highly adaptable, innovative, and committed to continuous learning.

Responsibilities

Lead Tempel's AI deployment by monitoring advancements in technology, benchmarks, and best practices.
Build workforce capability by developing AI training, awareness, and adoption programs.
Serve as a member of Tempel's Strategic Leadership Team (SLT) as a direct report to the CEO.
Partner with Worthington Steel's corporate AI office and consulting firms to align enterprise and local strategies.
Identify and prioritize AI opportunities-define projects, build and lead teams from conception to scaled deployment across the global facility network.
Oversee Tempel's AI project portfolio management through a stage-gate governance process and quarterly SLT reviews.
Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement across global operations.
Lead the buy-vs-build decision process and manage vendor and consulting relationships, ensuring outsourced deliverables meet business needs.
Operationalize Responsible AI by developing governance frameworks that ensure compliance with data privacy, information management, and cybersecurity standards.
Collaborate with Legal and Compliance to ensure proper privacy, data retention, cyber, and safety risk mitigation controls are in place.