Senior Vice President, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

About the Role

Visa’s Data and AI Platform is a core underlying engine for all critical applications at Visa, supporting over a billion transaction processing in real time daily and the clearing and settlement of trillions of dollars annually. Its AI system, which includes over 300 models (60+ real-time), solves complex payments issues and delivers high value to clients within milliseconds. We are now entering an era of exponential advancement in AI-powered technologies, accelerated by the recent advent of Generative AI applications and Large Language Models. Visa is leading the industry in its embrace of GAI and LLMs, leveraging data for Visa and clients to grow and optimize the global economy while protecting the commerce ecosystem. We are at the forefront of new and exciting explorations and discoveries on the power of AI.

The Senior Vice President of AIML will be an exceptional thought leader in applied AI and the use of LLMs and GAI in industry solutions. This role will provide leadership across the technology division and the company to drive the next generation of our AI strategic vision. We are looking for a unique leader with proven hands-on deep technical expertise and understanding of AI techniques like deep learning, neural networks, LLMs, and GAI. The candidate will be responsible for a cross-functional global team of data engineers, scientists, and solution architects to define technology strategy, project architecture, and play a leadership role providing guidance to all stakeholders. The individual must be a strong leader, able to engage and challenge senior audiences, identify and prioritize actions, deliver key AI innovations, and navigate a matrixed, global environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the company in all aspects of model development and use of next-gen artificial intelligence to solve internal and external clients' pain points.
• Evaluate, develop, and deploy immersive technology solutions in the AI & ML space.
• Understand the impact of Generative AI and ChatGPT on Visa’s business and drive solutions across domain areas.
• Select features, building, and optimizing classifiers using machine learning techniques.
• Extending company’s data with third-party sources of information when needed.
• Enhancing data collection procedures to include information that is relevant for building analytic systems.

Technical Skills & Qualifications

• Comprehensive understanding and demonstrated expertise in AI, ML, deep learning, neural networks, and related technologies.
• Proven hands-on experience with Large Language Models (LLMs), Chatbot technologies, and Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI).
• Proficiency in AI & ML tools, platforms, and libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Keras, etc.
• Solid understanding of programming languages such such as Python, R, Java etc., frequently used in the field of AI and ML.
• Experience in working with Big Data technologies such as Hadoop, Spark, etc., to support AI and ML initiatives.
• Knowledge of designing and implementing AI models and algorithms fit for real-world, scalable applications.
• Experience in setting up and utilizing both on-premise big data architectures and cloud-based AI solutions on platforms like AWS, Azure or GCP.
• Expert on responsible and ethical use of data, data governance, and privacy regulations including GDPR and CCPA.
• Masters' or PhD in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Data Science, Machine Learning, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 15+ years’ direct experience in AI and ML, with a focus on guiding business strategy through technological innovation.
• A strong research background in AI and ML, evidenced by publications in top-tier conferences or journals.
• Professional certifications in AI, ML, Data Science, or related fields would be a plus.
• Demonstrable experience in employing LLMs and GAI in a business context.
• Familiarity with AI & ML platforms, tools, and libraries, and comfort with adopting new technologies as they emerge.
• Proficiency in cloud-based AI solutions and big data technologies is highly desired.
• A firm grasp of data governance and privacy regulations is essential.

Track Record

• Proven record of driving business innovation and advancement through the strategic application of AI & ML technologies.
• Demonstrated success in building and implementing strategic AI & ML roadmaps aligned with business objectives.
• Evidence of leading teams towards the successful launch and maintenance of AI-powered initiatives.
• Historical contributions to the AI & ML fields, including but not limited to publications, patents, or successful projects.

Management and Organizational Skills

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary technology teams, providing guidance, and nurturing talent.
• Track record of effectively communicating complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience in change management concerning the adoption of new technologies.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, teams, and priorities concurrently.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships across various departments, ensuring seamless collaboration and communication.
• Proven capability to align departmental strategies with the broader corporate vision.
• Demonstrated ability to identify, attract, and develop talents in AI, ML, and related areas within the technology department.
• Experience in creating a collaborative and innovative work culture that encourages risk-taking and fosters excellence.
• Proven experience managing multidisciplinary teams and overseeing large-scale technology projects.
• Exceptional communication skills with a knack for translating complex technical jargon into understandable language for non-technical stakeholders.