SVP, AI Solutions

dentsu•Chicago, IL

4h•Hybrid

About The Position

About Merkle Merkle, a dentsu company, powers the experience economy with more than 35 years of expertise in data science, marketing technology, and digital transformation. We work with the world's leading brands to create customer experiences that drive growth, engagement, and loyalty. As part of dentsu's global network, we bring unmatched capabilities in data, technology, and creativity to transform how brands connect with people. Our unique position as the world's only data driven, outcomes obsessed, end-to-end transformation consultancy enables us to deliver measurable business impact through the intelligent application of technology and data. Position Overview We are seeking a visionary Senior Vice President to lead our AI Solutions practice within the Office of the CTO. This executive role combines strategic leadership, hands on innovation, and client-facing expertise to shape the future of how Merkle delivers AI powered transformation to our Fortune 500 clients. As SVP of AI Solutions, you will build and lead the AI branch of our CTO organization, establishing Merkle as the partner of choice for enterprises seeking genuine value from AI investments. You will drive thought leadership, oversee cutting edge prototyping and experimentation, and work directly with clients to architect and deliver bespoke AI solutions that transform their businesses. This is a unique opportunity to influence both client success and Merkle's strategic direction in AI. You will have direct input into the evolution of our Merkle AI platform solutions, connecting our teams, capabilities, and clients through intelligent technology.

Requirements

Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in technology, consulting, or digital transformation
Proven track record of building and scaling technology practices within professional services
Extensive experience leading enterprise AI implementations and digital transformation initiatives
Demonstrated success in client facing executive roles with Fortune 500 companies
Strong history of business development and revenue generation through technology solutions
E xpertise in AI/ML technologies, including generative AI, large language models, and agentic systems
Hands on experience with modern AI platforms and tools (Azure AI, AWS Bedrock, Google Vertex AI)
Strong understanding of data science, machine learning operations, and AI governance
Practical experience designing and implementing AI workflows and autonomous systems
Knowledge of enterprise architecture and integration patterns
Familiarity with major technology platforms (Salesforce, Adobe, Microsoft, Databricks, Snowflake)
Exceptional executive presence with ability to influence at all organizational levels
Outstanding consultative skills with solutions oriented mindset
Proven ability to translate complex technical concepts into compelling business narratives
Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets and driving profitability
Expert communicator comfortable leading C level conversations and board presentations
Demonstrated ability to balance strategic vision with hands on execution
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related field

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred (MBA, MS in relevant technical field)
Relevant certifications in AI/ML, cloud platforms, or enterprise architecture valued

Responsibilities

Strategic AI Leadership and Vision Collaborate with the CTO to define and execute the comprehensive AI strategy for Merkle's Office of the CTO, aligning technology innovation with business outcomes
Establish Merkle's position as the industry leader in AI powered customer experience transformation
Drive development of proprietary AI solutions and methodologies that differentiate Merkle in the marketplace
Build strategic partnerships with leading AI technology providers to enhance our solution ecosystem
Contribute to Merkle's AI platform strategy, ensuring seamless integration across our service offerings
Client Transformation and Business Development Serve as trusted AI advisor to C suite executives at Fortune 500 companies
Lead complex, high value AI transformation engagements with direct billable responsibility
Architect comprehensive AI solutions that bridge the gap between technology potential and business reality
Design and deliver compelling pitches and demonstrations that showcase AI's transformative potential
Develop business cases and ROI models that justify enterprise AI investments
Guide clients through organizational change management as they adopt AI powered operations
Innovation and Solution Development Lead hands on prototyping and experimentation initiatives that push the boundaries of AI applications
Oversee development of industry specific AI solutions addressing unique challenges in retail, financial services, healthcare, and manufacturing
Champion integration of emerging AI technologies including generative AI, agentic systems, and advanced analytics
Ensure seamless integration with enterprise platforms (Salesforce, Adobe, Microsoft, AWS, Google Cloud)
Drive research and development initiatives that keep Merkle at the forefront of AI innovation
Cross Functional Collaboration Partner with Tech Strategy teams on AI integration during strategic road mapping initiatives
Collaborate with Growth Architects to create compelling business cases and validate AI solutions
Lead AI thought leadership initiatives and knowledge sharing across the organization
Support internal workforce enablement and AI adoption programs
Provide pitch support through on site presentations and demo environment development
Work closely with practice area leads to embed AI capabilities across all service lines
Team Leadership and Development Build and lead a high performing team of AI specialists, data scientists, and solution architects
Foster a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and operational excellence
Establish centers of excellence for AI driven transformation capabilities
Drive recruitment and development of top AI talent
Mentor and develop the next generation of AI leaders
Manage team performance and billable utilization to meet business objectives