VP, Chief AI Architect

Role Overview

• Define the target-state AI architecture (data, model, application, and infrastructure layers)
• Establish the North Star for foundational capabilities: RAG and retrieval pipelines, agents/orchestration, vector search, feature stores, model registries, observability, evaluation, safety layers, etc.
• Set architecture principles that balance innovation speed with compliance, reliability, and total cost of ownership.
• Publish reference architectures and blueprints for priority use cases
• Define LLMOps / MLOps standards
• Codify security, privacy, and Responsible AI guardrails
• Own the enterprise AI architecture roadmap
• Chair an AI Architecture Review Board (AARB)
• Manage technology lifecycle for AI frameworks, model classes, toolchains, and platforms
• Maintain a strong external network to scout, evaluate, and curate innovations
• Run evidence-based proofs-of-value and shape build/partner/buy decisions with the Head of AI CoE and Procurement
• Co-own the platform backlog prioritization and ensure reference patterns → productized capabilities
• Jointly drive developer enablement: SDKs, templates, golden paths, sandboxes, and documentation
• Embed model risk management, validation evidence, and audit-ready documentation into patterns
• Promote API-first and event-driven integration between AI services and enterprise systems
• Maximize reuse via shared components tracked through measurable reuse rates
• Set performance engineering practices and partner with Infra/Cloud/HPC on capacity planning and cost/per-inference optimization
• Build an AI Architecture Guild that mentors domain architects and product teams

Requirements

• BS/BA degree required, higher degree preferred or relevant experience
• 15+ years in architecture or advanced engineering leadership
• 7+ years designing AI/ML platforms and solutions at enterprise scale
• Demonstrated mastery across LLMs/foundation models, retrieval/RAG, agents/orchestration, evaluation, model safety, and LLMOps/MLOps
• Deep experience in regulated environments (life sciences/healthcare or equivalent), including validation, auditability, and documentation rigor
• Proven ability to create reference architectures and standards
• Strong external network and a track record of curating innovation
• Hands-on credibility with modern stacks: vector databases, feature stores, model registries, observability, event-driven and API-first integration, cloud/HPC, and performance engineering for training and inference
• Exceptional influence and storytelling skills; able to align senior stakeholders and simplify complex trade-offs.

Tech Stack

• Cloud

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions
• Additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution
• Paid vacation
• Holiday and personal days
• Paid caregiver/parental and medical leave
• Health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage