Executive Director

Job Title: Executive Director – Data & AILocation: Bangalore, IndiaIndustry: Banking & Financial Services (BFSI)Experience: 20+ yearsReporting To: Global Head – Data & AI / BFS PortfolioRole Overview:The Executive Director – Data & AI will be responsible for leading large-scale technology delivery and digital transformation programs across global Banking and Financial Services clients. This role requires a visionary leader with deep expertise in Data, AI/ML, Cloud, and Digital Banking transformation. The ideal candidate will oversee delivery governance, manage client relationships at the executive level, and drive innovation and operational excellence across a multi-million-dollar portfolio.Key ResponsibilitiesDelivery Management- Lead end-to-end delivery across large and complex Data & AI programs within the Banking & Finance sector.- Manage a multi-portfolio P&L exceeding USD 10–15 million, ensuring profitability, efficiency, and delivery excellence.- Establish governance, risk management, and escalation frameworks for all active engagements.- Drive adoption of emerging technologies including Data on Cloud, AI/ML, API & Microservices, and DevOps to enhance delivery outcomes.- Continuously improve delivery frameworks, tools, and methodologies to achieve operational efficiency.Stakeholder Management- Act as the strategic advisor and single point of contact for C-level executives (CIO, CTO, COO) across client organizations.- Build and nurture strong client relationships, ensuring solutions are aligned with strategic business objectives.- Conduct quarterly business reviews to drive satisfaction, account growth, and long-term partnerships.Consulting & Advisory- Provide expert consulting in Data & AI transformation, digital banking modernization, and core banking evolution.- Guide clients through their cloud, automation, and data modernization journeys.- Identify innovation opportunities and define transformation roadmaps leveraging AI, ML, and advanced analytics.Sales & Business Development- Drive business growth through pre-sales support, solution design, and proposal development.- Engage in client presentations, RFP responses, and portfolio expansion initiatives through upselling and cross-selling.- Collaborate with sales and account teams to develop strategic go-to-market plans for Data & AI offerings.P&L and Financial Management- Own and manage the financial health of the portfolio including revenue, margin, and cost optimization.- Ensure all engagements meet or exceed financial targets while maintaining delivery quality.- Identify and execute cost-saving opportunities through automation and process optimization.Team Leadership & Development- Lead, coach, and inspire a global team of project managers, consultants, architects, and data professionals.- Foster a culture of innovation, learning, and collaboration across delivery units.- Oversee workforce planning, competency building, and talent retention initiatives.Innovation & Process Excellence- Champion modernization initiatives through AI/ML, Cloud, and DevOps transformation programs.- Drive enterprise-wide process automation, digital platform transformation, and operational excellence initiatives.- Promote the adoption of open-source technologies and best practices in data governance and security.Required QualificationsEducation:- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Engineering.- Executive Program in Business Analytics (EPBA) – IIM Calcutta.- M.Tech (Gold Medalist) and B.E. from IIEST Shibpur.- MBA or equivalent management education preferred.Experience:- 20+ years of experience in IT Services / Management Consulting.- Minimum 10 years in senior technology leadership roles managing global BFSI clients.- Proven track record in managing large portfolios (USD 10–30M) with end-to-end P&L ownership.- Hands-on experience in Data, AI/ML, Cloud, and Digital Banking transformation.- Strong background in consulting, solutioning, and managing enterprise-wide transformation engagements.- Extensive experience working with global clients across Americas, EMEA, and APAC.Key Skills & Competencies- Leadership & Strategy: Ability to define vision and strategy for large-scale Data & AI transformation.- Client Management: Proven success managing CXO relationships and driving business outcomes.- Banking & Financial Expertise: In-depth understanding of retail, commercial, and transaction banking systems.- Technical Acumen: Strong exposure to Data on Cloud, AI/ML, Automation, API/Microservices, DevOps, and Agile delivery.- P&L Management: Skilled in managing high-value portfolios and achieving revenue and profitability targets.- Innovation Mindset: Passion for driving transformation through data-driven insights and technology modernization.- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication; strong influencing and negotiation skills.Preferred*Published thought leadership, patents, or whitepapers in the Data & AI domain.*Active involvement in data and AI industry forums or professional networks.