Axial Search recruits for AI transformation roles across North America, building long-term relationships with leaders across every industry vertical. Apply today to express your interest in this position and others like it. Visit our website to learn more about our process and to find free tools to support your job search — including our live job market dashboard with salary, skills, and hiring-trend data from thousands of AI transformation roles.

What the market looks like

AI strategy hiring in financial services has become one of the sharpest segments of the market — mid-to-large buy-side, sell-side, and insurance organizations have all moved AI from an innovation line item to a board-level topic. Head-of-strategy roles in the sector sit close to the CEO and often directly in front of regulators, with total compensation generally in a $250K–$400K band including bonus. The strongest candidates we place bring a rare combination of strategic depth, regulatory fluency, and real execution credibility.

Job responsibilities

Set and own the firm's overall AI strategy across business lines
Serve as the senior point of contact for AI initiatives at the executive and board level
Build and lead the AI strategy function, including FTEs, external partners, and cross-functional working groups
Drive enterprise prioritization, investment decisions, and portfolio management across AI use cases
Partner closely with CIO, CDO, COO, and business-line leadership on execution
Represent the firm externally on AI strategy — industry forums, regulator engagement, and press as appropriate
Own the firm's position on emerging regulation and industry standards
Hold the line on AI investments that deliver real value and shut down those that don't

Candidate requirements

12+ years in strategy, consulting, or AI or transformation leadership, with senior financial services experience strongly preferred
Demonstrated ownership of firm-wide or business-line-wide AI or digital strategy
Deep understanding of the regulatory and risk environment for AI in financial services
Proven ability to lead at the C-suite and board level
Strong ability to operate across both business and technical stakeholders
Executive gravitas, strong writing, and public-speaking comfort

Head of AI Strategy