Director of AI Strategy (2908)

At SDFCU, we are committed to attracting and retaining top talent to ensure our continued success. Our tradition of exceptional service extends not only to our members but also to our employees. Through comprehensive internal training and workshops, we nurture professional strengths and provide ample opportunities for career advancement. Are you ready to join our dynamic team? We offer competitive salaries, exceptional health, dental, and vision insurance within the first 30 days of employment, a matched 401(K) plan with up to 4% SDFCU contribution, and much more.

Benefits and Perks of SDFCU Include:

• Diversity and Inclusion: Work in an environment that values and respects all team members
• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 12 paid holidays a year, including your birthday
• Flexible Work Options: Potential work-from-home options after the introductory period
• Generous Paid Time Off: Ample vacation and personal days to maintain a health work-life balance
• Tuition Reimbursement: Support for your ongoing education and career development
• Commute/Parking Incentives: Financial incentives for your daily parking
• Comprehensive Insurance: Access to excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance packages
• Gym Reimbursement: Stay healthy with our gym membership reimbursement program
• Team Bonding: Participate in company and team bonding events that foster a collaborative work environment

Join us at SDFCU and be part of a team that values excellence, innovation, and professional growth.

State Department Federal Credit Union is seeking a Director of AI Strategy who will provide strategic leadership and hands-on oversight of SDFCU's artificial intelligence and machine learning initiatives. This role is responsible for developing and executing an AI strategy that enhances the member experience, improves operational efficiency, manages risk, and advances the credit union's mission of people helping people. The Director will partner with business units across the organization to identify, prioritize, and deploy AI-driven solutions in a responsible, compliant, and member-centric manner.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee the design, development, testing, and deployment of AI and machine learning models.
• Lead initiatives such as intelligent automation, predictive analytics, fraud detection, credit risk modeling, chatbots/virtual assistants, and personalization engines.
• Establish a scalable AI infrastructure, including data pipelines, model management, and practices.
• Evaluate and manage relationships with third-party AI vendors and fintech partners.
• Ensure AI solutions integrate effectively with core banking systems and digital platforms.
• Ensure all AI models and applications comply with applicable regulations including NCUA guidelines, ECOA, FCRA, UDAAP, and fair lending requirements.
• Develop and enforce an AI governance framework covering model risk management, explainability, bias detection, and auditability.
• Partner with Risk, Compliance, and Legal to assess and mitigate AI-related risks.
• Champion responsible and ethical AI use across the organization.
• Collaborate with the data and analytics team to ensure high-quality, accessible data that supports AI initiatives.

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field required.
• 8-12 years of progressive experience in AI, machine learning, or data science.
• 3-5 years in a leadership or management role.
• Experience in financial services, fintech, or a regulated industry strongly preferred.
• Credit union experience a plus.
• Proven ability to build and lead cross-functional teams.
• Strong executive communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to balance innovation with risk management and compliance.
• Experience with cloud AI platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).