Role Overview for Head of Industrial AI with a Specialty Chemicals Company – Charlotte, NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a global leader in the specialty chemicals industry to recruit a visionary and transformative Head of Industrial AI. This is a paramount leadership position based in their strategic hub of Charlotte, NC, designed for an individual who can architect and execute an enterprise-wide Artificial Intelligence strategy that will redefine the future of chemical manufacturing, research, and supply chain operations.
Our client is at the forefront of innovation, committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology to solve complex challenges, enhance operational efficiency, and drive sustainable growth. As the Head of Industrial AI, you will be the central figure in this transformation, reporting directly to the C-suite and acting as the primary evangelist and strategist for all things AI. You will be responsible for building a world-class AI center of excellence from the ground up, fostering a data-driven culture, and delivering tangible business value through the implementation of advanced machine learning, predictive analytics, and AI-powered solutions.
This role is not merely about managing data scientists; it is about setting a bold vision, influencing a global organization, and fundamentally changing how the business operates. You will identify high-impact opportunities across the value chain—from predictive maintenance in manufacturing plants and process optimization in production lines to accelerating new material discovery in R&D and creating intelligent supply chain models. You will be a strategic partner to business leaders, translating complex technical capabilities into clear, measurable business outcomes that drive profitability, safety, and innovation. If you are a seasoned AI leader with a passion for industrial applications and a proven track record of driving large-scale digital transformation, this is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on a global industry leader.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Industrial AI with a Specialty Chemicals Company – Charlotte, NC
AI Vision and Strategic Roadmap Development
Conceive, develop, and champion a comprehensive, multi-year Industrial AI strategy and roadmap that aligns directly with the company’s long-term business objectives. Collaborate with executive leadership to secure buy-in and resources, ensuring AI initiatives are prioritized based on potential ROI and strategic impact.
Team Leadership and Talent Cultivation
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performance, multidisciplinary team of data scientists, machine learning engineers, AI specialists, and data engineers. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, continuous learning, and intellectual curiosity. Establish career paths and development plans to attract and retain top-tier AI talent.
Industrial AI Application and Implementation
Spearhead the identification, development, and deployment of AI/ML models and solutions across key industrial domains. This includes but is not limited to: predictive maintenance for critical manufacturing equipment, real-time process control and yield optimization, AI-driven quality assurance and defect detection, demand forecasting and supply chain optimization, and accelerating materials science research and development through advanced modeling.
Technical and Architectural Oversight
Provide expert technical guidance on all aspects of the AI/ML lifecycle, from data acquisition and feature engineering to model selection, training, validation, and deployment. Oversee the design and implementation of a scalable, robust MLOps framework and data infrastructure on cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) to support enterprise-wide AI initiatives.
Cross-Functional Collaboration and Stakeholder Management
Act as the primary liaison between the AI team and various business units, including Manufacturing, Operations, R&D, Supply Chain, and Commercial teams. Translate business needs into technical requirements and effectively communicate the value and progress of AI projects to both technical and non-technical stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Data Governance and Strategy
In partnership with the Chief Data Officer and IT leadership, establish and enforce robust data governance policies and standards. Ensure the availability of high-quality, reliable data streams from industrial control systems (ICS), IoT sensors, ERPs, and LIMS to fuel AI models.
Innovation, Research, and External Partnerships
Stay at the absolute forefront of advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and industrial automation. Explore and pilot emerging technologies such as generative AI, digital twins, and advanced robotics for potential application within the company. Build strategic relationships with academic institutions, research labs, and technology vendors to accelerate innovation.
Performance Measurement and Value Realization
Define, track, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to rigorously measure the business impact, ROI, and operational improvements delivered by AI initiatives. Use data-driven insights to refine the AI strategy and justify future investments.
Requirements for the Head of Industrial AI with a Specialty Chemicals Company – Charlotte, NC
Educational Background
An advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a quantitative field such as Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Statistics, Engineering, or a related discipline is required.
Executive Leadership Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in the field of data science and AI, with at least 7+ years in a significant leadership capacity, including experience building and managing high-performing technical teams.
Industrial Domain Expertise
Demonstrable experience applying AI and machine learning in an industrial, manufacturing, or heavy asset environment is mandatory. Direct experience within the specialty chemicals, process manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or materials science sectors is a significant advantage.
Profound Technical Acumen
Deep, hands-on expertise in a broad range of machine learning and statistical modeling techniques (e.g., deep learning, reinforcement learning, NLP, time-series analysis). High proficiency with Python and/or R and extensive experience with major ML/DL frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Keras.
Cloud and MLOps Proficiency
Proven experience designing and deploying AI/ML solutions on major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP). Strong understanding of and practical experience with MLOps principles and tools for model versioning, CI/CD, monitoring, and governance.
Strategic and Business Acumen
Exceptional ability to think strategically and connect deep technical concepts to tangible business outcomes. Proven track record of developing and executing technology roadmaps that deliver measurable financial and operational results.
Influence and Communication Skills
Superior communication, presentation, and influencing skills. The ability to articulate a compelling vision and complex technical information clearly and concisely to a variety of audiences, from engineers to the Board of Directors.
Change Management Skills
Experience leading large-scale technological and cultural change within a complex, global organization. A collaborative and resilient leadership style capable of navigating ambiguity and driving consensus.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Executive-level compensation package including a competitive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and long-term incentives.
- Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Significant paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
- Substantial budget for professional development, including conferences, certifications, and continued education.
- Relocation assistance package available for exceptional candidates moving to the Charlotte, NC area.
- The unparalleled opportunity to build a legacy and shape the technological future of a global industry leader.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary AI leader ready to drive the next wave of industrial innovation, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this pivotal role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience in leading industrial AI transformations.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search and recruitment for transformative technology roles. To learn more about our expertise in this domain, please visit JRG Partners’ Smart Factory & Industrial AI Executive Search Firm. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
