Senior Director, AI

Valvoline Global • Lexington, KY

290d

About The Position

Valvoline Global Operations is seeking a Senior Director of AI to lead the strategic development and deployment of artificial intelligence initiatives across our global enterprise. This leadership role will drive AI-driven innovations in supply chain optimization, predictive maintenance, customer insights, digital transformation, and operational efficiencies. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in AI and machine learning, a strong understanding of industrial and retail operations, and the leadership ability to scale AI adoption across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in data science, Machine Learning, or AI, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
• Expertise in AI, machine learning, deep learning, and predictive analytics.
• Strong proficiency in AI frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch), cloud AI platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure), and MLOps practices.
• Experience in industrial AI applications, including supply chain optimization, predictive maintenance, and IoT-driven analytics.
• Solid understanding of AI ethics, governance, and compliance in a corporate setting.
• Proven track record of leading AI teams and managing large-scale AI projects.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate AI concepts into business impact.
• Experience managing AI budgets, vendor relationships, and cross-functional AI initiatives.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in AI-driven operations within manufacturing, automotive, or supply chain industries.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute Valvoline's global AI strategy, aligning with business objectives and industry best practices.
• Advise, lead, mentor, and scale a cross-functional collaborative team.
• Drive AI adoption across various business functions, including, but not limited to, manufacturing, logistics, marketing, and customer service.
• Collaborate with IT, operations, and leadership to ensure AI investments yield measurable business impact.
• Oversee the design, development, and deployment of AI/ML models to optimize key areas such as supply chain & logistics, manufacturing & maintenance, customer engagement & marketing, and product development.
• Ensure AI models are explainable, scalable, and integrated with existing business workflows.
• Partner with C-suite executives and department heads to identify high-value AI opportunities.
• Communicate AI strategies, initiatives, and results to key stakeholders.
• Work closely with marketing, sales, and customer experience teams to leverage AI for enhanced digital transformation.
• Champion a data-driven culture by promoting AI literacy across the organization.
• Implement AI governance frameworks to ensure ethical, fair, and responsible AI practices.
• Partner with the Cyber Security / Data Compliance Team to ensure compliance with data privacy regulations and industry-specific standards.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies to prevent AI bias, security threats, and model degradation.

Benefits

• Health insurance plans (medical, dental, vision)
• HSA and flexible spending accounts
• 401(k)
• Incentive opportunity
• Life insurance
• Short and long-term disability insurance
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee discounts
• Tuition reimbursement
• Adoption assistance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree