Director of AI

Description Prisma-Photonics is a rapidly growing startup company, developing the next-generation smart-infrastructure solution based on novel fiber-sensing technology (smart roads, smart cities, perimeters, and grid monitoring, etc.). The company offers an award-winning disruptive solution; a “sensor free” approach to smart infrastructure. The company is VC backed and in the revenues stage. Combining pioneering technology in optical fiber sensing with state-of-the-art machine learning, we help prevent environmental disasters, protect human lives, and keep critical energy and transportation backbones running smoothly. About the Role The Director of AI at Prisma Photonics will lead the company's AI organization, including algorithm development teams, embedded algorithm engineers within product squads, and the Data Operations team. This role combines strategic leadership with execution ownership, driving the development, deployment, and continuous improvement of AI-powered products across power transmission, border security, and critical infrastructure monitoring. The Director of AI is accountable not only for algorithm innovation, but also for ensuring successful production deployment and measurable customer impact. This leader will establish a customer-first culture across the organization, aligning AI development priorities with customer needs, product objectives, and business outcomes. The ideal candidate is a visionary yet execution-oriented leader who can bridge cutting-edge AI research with scalable production systems, build high-performing teams, and deliver measurable customer value. Success in this role will be measured not only by algorithm performance, but by the ability to deliver AI capabilities into production and generate measurable value to our customers. What You’ll Do Lead the AI group, including algorithm development teams, embedded algorithm engineers, and data operations. Build and mentor high-performing teams, fostering a culture of ownership, collaboration, continuous improvement, and customer focus. Define and execute the AI roadmap in alignment with company strategy, customer needs, and product objectives. Lead the development and deployment of AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Signal Processing solutions. Own the full AI lifecycle, from research and experimentation through production deployment, monitoring, and continuous optimization. Lead the Data Operations function, ensuring efficient annotation, labeling, and quality processes that support AI development. Partner closely with Product, Engineering, and business leaders to maximize AI impact across the organization. Engage with customers and stakeholders to understand challenges, identify opportunities, and drive measurable business value. Communicate AI strategy, progress, opportunities, and risks to executive leadership. Contribute to company strategy, product direction, and technology leadership. What You Bring MSc or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field. 8+ years of experience leading AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Signal Processing, or Algorithm development teams. Proven track record of delivering AI solutions from research and innovation through production deployment and operational impact. Strong expertise in modern machine learning and deep learning frameworks, including signal, image, audio, or other complex data domains. Experience leading multidisciplinary technical organizations in a fast-paced environment. Strong understanding of software engineering principles, system architecture, and production AI/MLOps practices. Customer-oriented with the ability to balance innovation, execution, and business priorities. Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Passion for building teams, developing talent, and delivering measurable customer value through AI.