VP, AI and Digital Technology

Come join us•Van Nuys, CA

About The Position

WHY Brands is at an inflection point. As we accelerate our growth and digital transformation, we are seeking our first VP, AI and Digital Technology to define the future of technology across our global portfolio of brands. Reporting directly to the CEO, this executive will architect and lead an AI-first enterprise that transforms how we innovate, manufacture, market, sell, and operate—creating a sustainable competitive advantage through technology, data, and artificial intelligence. Reporting directly to the CEO, this executive will define the technology and artificial intelligence strategy that transforms how we innovate, manufacture, market, sell, and operate to drive profitable growth. The VP, AI and Digital Technology will lead WHY Brands' transformation into an AI-first, digitally enabled consumer products company by integrating enterprise technology, artificial intelligence, digital commerce, cybersecurity, software engineering, data, and automation into a single strategic function that accelerates innovation, operational excellence, and profitable growth. This is more than a technology leadership role. It is an opportunity to architect an AI-first enterprise where intelligent automation, data, software, digital commerce, and emerging technologies become catalysts for growth, employee productivity, and exceptional consumer experiences.

Requirements

15+ years of progressive leadership experience in enterprise technology, software engineering, digital transformation, data, and AI
Experience leading enterprise IT organizations in consumer products, retail, ecommerce, manufacturing, or similarly complex industries
Experience in consumer-packaged goods (CPG); ideally with e-commerce, and/or direct-to-consumer (DTC) businesses
Deep AI & Digital Expertise with: Enterprise AI strategy; Generative AI; AI Agents; Intelligent Automation; Large Language Models; Microsoft Copilot ecosystem; Claude and OpenAI technologies; AI governance; Data platforms; Machine learning applications
Ability to identify practical AI opportunities that create measurable business impact and outcomes
Proven experience serving as CTO, CIO, CDO, or equivalent executive leader
Demonstrated success leading enterprise-wide digital transformation that translate to business outcomes
Demonstrated ability to translate complex technology and AI concepts into clear business strategies for executive leadership and Boards of Directors
Experience building modern cloud-based technology organizations.
Strong understanding of enterprise architecture and software development
Experience leading cybersecurity and enterprise risk initiatives
Track record of building high-performing global technology teams
Proven ability to build, develop, and lead high-performing cross-functional teams, both directly and through influence
Able to translate operational insights into business impact and make data-driven recommendations aligned with financial goals
Entrepreneurial, nimble, and comfortable in a hands-on, fast-moving environment
A collaborative team player who leads with humility, drives accountability, and fosters a culture of trust and performance
Superior management skills: ability to influence and engage direct and indirect reports and peers
Exceptional written, oral, interpersonal, and presentation skills and the ability to effectively interface with senior management, the Company’s board of directors, and staff
Ability to operate as an effective tactical as well as strategic thinker

Responsibilities

Lead the company's AI vision and roadmap, embedding artificial intelligence and intelligent automation across every function—from product development, ecommerce, and supply chain to customer experience, HR, finance, marketing, and operations
Develop the Company's multi-year AI strategy and investment roadmap
Establish enterprise AI governance, policies, and responsible AI standards
Drive adoption of: Generative AI; AI Agents; Intelligent Automation; Machine Learning; Predictive Analytics; Knowledge Management; Digital Assistants; and Responsible AI Governance
Lead modernization of: Enterprise applications and Cloud infrastructure, Integration architecture, Data platforms, Business intelligence, Software development, APIs, Enterprise architecture
Evaluate emerging technologies and translate innovation into measurable business value
Own technology supporting our digital ecosystem including: DTC / Ecommerce, Digital consumer experiences, Mobile technologies, Marketing technology, Customer data platforms, CRM, Consumer engagement technologies
Identify emerging technologies that can create competitive differentiation
Lead technology due diligence for acquisitions and strategic partnerships
Partner with Digital, Marketing, Product, and Commercial teams to accelerate revenue growth through technology
Develop scalable technology platforms supporting global product development, engineering, distribution, sourcing, and commercial operations
Develop enterprise capabilities around: Data strategy, Master data, Data governance, Analytics, AI-ready architecture, Self-service reporting, Executive dashboards
Transform data into a strategic business asset
Oversee internal technology development including: Enterprise applications, Custom software, Integrations, APIs, Consumer-facing platforms, Mobile applications, Digital products
Drive modern software engineering practices
Own the global technology operating and capital budgets, ensuring disciplined investment and measurable ROI
Ensure world-class security across the enterprise
Lead: Cybersecurity strategy, Information security, Identity & Access Management, Infrastructure security, Incident response, Business continuity and Disaster recovery, Privacy & regulatory compliance
Protect consumer, employee, and company data while enabling innovation
Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO and executive leadership team
Provide strategic guidance on: Technology investments, Digital transformation, AI opportunities, Innovation, M&A technology integration, Enterprise risk, Future technology trends
Represent technology at the Board level when appropriate
Oversee, direct, and organize the work of the Global IT and Technology Teams
Build, mentor, and motivate high-performing cross-functional teams
Collaborate with executive leadership to define company strategy and roadmap
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement; lead organizational change initiatives to support evolving business needs