Head of Production, Applied AI

LILT • New York, NY

1d

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Head of Applied AI Production to lead and scale our multilingual Applied AI production operations. This strategic leadership role will be responsible for executing complex programs, building robust data operations, and scaling production operations. The ideal candidate will bridge the gap between technical requirements and operational excellence, ensuring high-quality multilingual data production at scale.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in ML Data production operations, program management, or related roles
• 5+ years leading complex ML/AI Data delivery programs at scale
• Proven track record of scaling operations from small teams (5-10) to enterprise-level (50+)
• Experience managing multi-million dollar budgets and P&L responsibility
• History of successfully delivering complex, multi-stakeholder programs on time and within budget
• Deep understanding of AI/ML workflows, training data requirements, and quality standards
• Expertise in data annotation, labelling, model benchmarking and evaluation, and data pipeline operations
• Knowledge of data science, engineering principles, and linguistics as they apply to AI production
• Experience with production tooling, platforms, and technologies for Applied AI operations
• Exceptional leadership abilities with experience building and scaling high-performing teams
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven decision-making approach
• Outstanding communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
• Expertise in process optimization, change management, and operational excellence methodologies
• Strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution capabilities
• Ability to thrive in ambiguous, fast-paced, dynamic environments with competing priorities

Nice To Haves

• Experience in multilingual AI operations
• Background in AI-native companies
• Degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or related field
• Certifications in project management (PMP), process improvement (Lean Six Sigma), or related areas
• Experience with global, distributed teams and offshore operations

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the vision and strategy for Applied AI production operations
• Translate business objectives into actionable data production strategies and roadmaps
• Build scalable frameworks that balance speed-to-market with rigorous quality standards
• Communicate value, progress, and strategic initiatives effectively to executive stakeholders
• Lead end-to-end production operations for Applied AI, ensuring on-time, high-quality delivery
• Design and implement standardized processes, workflows, and quality frameworks across production teams
• Optimize resource allocation, prioritization, and capacity planning to maximize team productivity
• Establish metrics and KPIs to measure operational efficiency, quality, and business impact
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and identify opportunities for innovation
• Build, mentor, and scale a high-performing production team, including project managers, data specialists, and quality assurance professionals
• Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and collaboration
• Partner with cross-functional leaders in Research, Engineering, and GTM to ensure alignment and effective collaboration
• Ensure rigorous quality assurance processes are in place
• Make strategic tooling and technology decisions to support scalability and efficiency
• Implement risk management frameworks to minimize rework and delivery delays
• Stay current with industry best practices and emerging trends in AI

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed