Position Description:

Mathematica applies expertise at the intersection of data, methods, policy, and practice to improve well-being around the world. We collaborate closely with public- and private-sector partners to translate big questions into deep insights that improve programs, refine strategies, and enhance understanding. Our work yields actionable information to guide decisions in wide-ranging policy areas, from health, education, early childhood, and family support to nutrition, employment, disability, and international development. Mathematica offers our employees competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package, as well as the advantages of being 100 percent employee owned. As an employee stock owner, you will experience financial benefits of ESOP holdings that have increased in tandem with the company’s growth and financial strength. You will also be part of an independent, employee-owned firm that is able to define and further our mission, enhance our quality and accountability, and steadily grow our financial strength. Learn more about our benefits here: https://www.mathematica.org/career-opportunities/benefits-at-a-glance

Mathematica is rapidly advancing its use of AI to support our mission—and we’re not just beginning, we’re accelerating. We’re looking for a hands-on leader to serve as our AI Lead, responsible for driving adoption across all administrative functions and helping shape enterprise-wide AI policy, governance, and coordination.

This role is ideal for a leader-doer: someone who can both set the vision and roll up their sleeves to implement solutions. The focus isn’t just on launching AI initiatives, but on optimizing them: identifying best practices, promoting adoption, ensuring consistency, and delivering measurable value across the organization.

While the primary focus is on administrative and operational areas, this role will collaborate closely with business unit leaders applying AI in research, data analytics, and policy. Together, they’ll ensure AI is used in ways that are innovative, ethical, and aligned with Mathematica’s mission.

The AI Lead will report to the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and work cross-functionally with teams across IT—including enterprise applications, security, data science, and solution architecture. Success in this role requires strong leadership across both corporate departments and business lines.

Core Responsibilities:

Shape and Execute AI strategy

• Develop a comprehensive roadmap and strategy for AI adoption across corporate functions, aligned with business goals.
• Lead AI readiness efforts, including data governance, tool selection, security, and business case development.

• Partner with corporate departments to understand workflows and challenges.
• Identify and prioritize AI/ML opportunities that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize operations.
• Translate business needs into actionable, cost-effective AI solutions.

• Oversee end-to-end delivery of AI initiatives, including planning, budgeting, execution, and operationalization.
• Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and deliver measurable outcomes.

• Collaborate with business units to understand client-related AI needs.
• Align internal governance, tooling, and policies with both internal operations and client delivery requirements.

• Lead enterprise-wide change management to support AI adoption.
• Develop training, communication, and knowledge-sharing strategies.
• Build strong relationships with business sponsors and AI champions to foster trust and momentum.

• Work closely with the security team to define and implement policies for the safe and responsible use of AI.
• Manage risk through appropriate tools and frameworks.

• Build and maintain a network of external partners and suppliers to support AI initiatives.
• Stay informed on vendor roadmaps and emerging innovations.

• Oversee budgets for AI tools, pilots, and projects.
• Track spending, evaluate business cases, and measure ROI on AI investments.

• Define and track KPIs to assess the impact of AI initiatives.
• Analyze results, capture lessons learned and identify areas for optimization.
• Stay current on AI/ML trends and emerging technologies to drive innovation.

• Lead thought leadership on ethical, sustainable, and compliant AI practices.
• Ensure AI solutions meet quality standards and align with organizational values.

Position Requirements:

Position Requirements:

• 10+ years of experience in technology, digital transformation, or related fields.
• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent working experience.
• Demonstrated success in leading multi-disciplinary strategies and roadmaps, particularly within corporate operations.
• Proven experience implementing AI use cases in corporate functions with measurable business outcomes.
• Familiarity with managing the innovation lifecycle, from ideation to implementation and scaling.
• Strong understanding of the AI/ML technology landscape, with hands-on experience collaborating with data scientists, engineers, and security professionals.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences and senior leadership.
• Experience in the professional services industry is preferred.

This position offers an anticipated annual base salary range of $170,000 - $210,000. This position is eligible for a discretionary bonus based on company and individual performance.

To apply, please submit a cover letter (optional), resume, and salary expectations.

STAFFING AGENCIES AND THIRD-PARTY RECRUITERS: Mathematica is not accepting candidates for this role or any technical role from staffing agencies or third-party recruiters. Please do not contact technical or senior staff at Mathematica or share unsolicited resumes. All agency inquiries go through the talent acquisition team and will be routed accordingly.

Available Locations: Washington, DC; Princeton, NJ; Remote