Managing Director, Data & AI
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeHybrid
location_onVÉLO, 115, North 2nd Street, North Loop, Central, Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota, 55401, United States
About Pioneer
At Pioneer, you'll work directly with executive teams, solving complex problems and shaping strategies that reset what's possible. Sometimes the work is headline-worthy. Sometimes it's foundational. But every project earns trust – and earns us the right to take on more. You'll get the kind of access, challenge, and growth found at big firms – while helping build a company that's scaling fast and guided by what we value.
If you're looking for meaning, momentum, and a seat at the table, you're in the right place.
About the Role
The Managing Director of Data & AI is the senior executive accountable for the performance, growth, and long-term health of Pioneer's Minneapolis Data & AI practice. This role leads a newly unified team — formed by merging Pioneer's established data engineering and analytics capability with its AI and machine learning practice — and is responsible for integrating these teams into a coherent, market-leading offering.
You will blend deep technical fluency in modern data platforms with applied AI/ML expertise to deliver measurable outcomes for clients. As the primary growth engine and senior client relationship owner for data and AI work across the Minneapolis market, you will serve as a trusted advisor, translating complex business problems into concrete solutions. Your day will involve leading executive-level conversations, driving the go-to-market strategy, and fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning within a high-accountability environment.
Our Culture & Values
We value trust, momentum, and the courage to take on foundational challenges. We are building a company that scales fast, guided by a bias toward action and sound judgment. In this role, you will help shape a culture where technical excellence meets strategic vision, ensuring that our team delivers with quality, pace, and accountability.
Location & Work Model
This role is based in Minneapolis, MN. Candidates must be able to maintain a hybrid schedule within the Minneapolis market.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Pioneer is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Work location
Work model: Hybrid
VÉLO, 115, North 2nd Street, North Loop, Central, Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota, 55401, United States
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Key Responsibilities
- check_circleOwn and grow the Minneapolis Data & AI pipeline from initial relationship to signed engagement
- check_circleLead executive-level client conversations across data strategy, AI enablement, and platform modernization
- check_circleDevelop and execute the Data & AI go-to-market strategy for Minneapolis aligned to firmwide direction
- check_circleDrive account planning and expansion within existing clients across sectors with high strategic value
- check_circleServe as executive sponsor on key client engagements ensuring quality, risk management, and satisfaction
- check_circleLead the integration of data engineering/analytics and AI/ML teams into a unified, high-performing practice
- check_circleBuild and retain a strong team of data engineers, analytics consultants, data scientists, and ML engineers
- check_circleOwn annual business planning for the Minneapolis Data & AI practice including revenue targets and headcount
Requirements
- verified15+ years of experience in data, analytics, AI/ML consulting or professional services
- verifiedHands-on fluency with Databricks, Microsoft Azure & Fabric, and/or Snowflake
- verifiedExperience leading applied AI and machine learning engagements
- verifiedTrack record of building and scaling technical consulting teams
- verifiedAbility to maintain hybrid schedule in Minneapolis, MN market
Nice to Have
Industry experience in utilities, energy, or infrastructure with direct client relationships in the sector. Exposure to product development lifecycle and product ownership practices within a consulting or technology firm. Experience leading organizational integrations or practice mergers. Experience working with technology partnership networks (e.g., Microsoft, Anthropic, etc.). Familiarity with AI governance, responsible AI frameworks, and enterprise AI deployment at scale. MBA or advanced degree in a quantitative or technical discipline.
Benefits & Perks
check_circleMeaningful time off and paid holidayscheck_circleParental leavecheck_circle401(k) with employer matchcheck_circleTuition reimbursementMedical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
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Skills, education and keywords
Skills: Databricks, Microsoft Azure, Fabric, Snowflake, Ai, Machine Learning, Data Engineering, Analytics, Mlops, LLM Orchestration.
Education: MBA or advanced degree in a quantitative or technical discipline (Preferred).
Frequently asked questions about Managing Director, Data & AI at Pioneer Management Consulting
What does a Managing Director, Data & AI at Pioneer Management Consulting do?expand_more
A Managing Director, Data & AI at Pioneer Management Consulting is responsible for the following: Own and grow the Minneapolis Data & AI pipeline from initial relationship to signed engagement; Lead executive-level client conversations across data strategy, AI enablement, and platform modernization; Develop and execute the Data & AI go-to-market strategy for Minneapolis aligned to firmwide direction; and Drive account planning and expansion within existing clients across sectors with high strategic value.
What are the requirements for this Managing Director, Data & AI role?expand_more
Pioneer Management Consulting is looking for candidates who meet the following requirements: 15+ years of experience in data, analytics, AI/ML consulting or professional services; Hands-on fluency with Databricks, Microsoft Azure & Fabric, and/or Snowflake; Experience leading applied AI and machine learning engagements; Track record of building and scaling technical consulting teams; and Ability to maintain hybrid schedule in Minneapolis, MN market.
Where is the Managing Director, Data & AI role at Pioneer Management Consulting located?expand_more
Managing Director, Data & AI at Pioneer Management Consulting is based in VÉLO, 115, North 2nd Street, North Loop, Central, Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota, 55401, United States. This is a hybrid role.
Is this Managing Director, Data & AI job remote, hybrid, or on-site?expand_more
Pioneer Management Consulting has listed this Managing Director, Data & AI role as hybrid.
How much experience is required for this Managing Director, Data & AI role?expand_more
Managing Director, Data & AI at Pioneer Management Consulting typically requires 15+ years of relevant experience at the executive level.
What skills do you need for the Managing Director, Data & AI role at Pioneer Management Consulting?expand_more
Key skills for Managing Director, Data & AI at Pioneer Management Consulting include Databricks; Microsoft Azure; Fabric; Snowflake; Ai; Machine Learning; Data Engineering; and Analytics.
What education is required for Managing Director, Data & AI at Pioneer Management Consulting?expand_more
Educational requirements for this role: MBA or advanced degree in a quantitative or technical discipline (Preferred).
What category does the Managing Director, Data & AI role belong to?expand_more
Managing Director, Data & AI at Pioneer Management Consulting is part of the it job category on Recrutus.
About Pioneer Management Consulting
Pioneer Management Consulting operates as a business management consulting firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The organization assists mid to large-sized companies across Minnesota and Colorado in executing complex transformation projects and achieving strategic goals. Its service areas include strategy, execution, organizational effectiveness, data analytics, and technology implementation. The firm works with diverse industries that require proven solutions focused on results and client positioning.
The team comprises corporate executives, entrepreneurs, turnaround experts, and MBA graduates who prioritize humility, continuous learning, and community connection. This collective approach supports a workplace culture that values personal passions and professional dedication. Pioneer Management Consulting has been recognized for its organizational culture, securing a fourth-place ranking in the small business category of the Star Tribune's 2022 Top Workplaces list and receiving the Communications Excellence Award. These accolades reflect the firm's commitment to delivering high-quality consulting services with a distinct operational style.
Browse more roles: All Pioneer Management Consulting jobs, it jobs on Recrutus.