Head of AI Transformation – Financial Protection and Retirement Solutions

Location: New York, United States (preferred; Boston or Bethlehem, PA also considered) | Hybrid: 3+ days in office onsite

Why Join Guardian Life?

Guardian Life, a 165-year-old leader in financial protection and retirement solutions, is at the forefront of innovation in the insurance industry. We're placing AI transformation at the center of our strategy to drive efficiency, revenue growth, improved risk management, and superior customer experiences. Join our Financial Protection and Retirement Solutions (FPRS) business unit as the Head of AI Transformation and shape the future of insurance with cutting-edge AI technologies.

At Guardian, you'll lead cross-functional teams to deliver AI-centered solutions targeting our largest processes like underwriting and financial advisor productivity. This high-visibility role reports to the Head of AI Transformation, manages a dedicated team member, and influences executives across sales, finance, legal, and technology. Success here means operating with startup agility in a trusted, established company—marshaling resources, influencing stakeholders, and deploying AI products that grow our business and boost operational efficiency.

Be part of a diverse, ethical culture that inspires well-being. Enjoy skill-building, leadership development, and philanthropic opportunities while surrounded by colleagues committed to excellence. Explore our Guardian Life careers and see why we're a top destination for AI jobs in insurance, New York tech careers, and financial services innovation.

Role Description

As Head of AI Transformation for FPRS, you'll set the strategy, define product roadmaps, and drive execution for AI-enabled solutions. Collaborate with data science teams building models, technology teams integrating them, and business units like sales and finance. This role demands consultative prowess, deep analytical thinking, and the ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment. With high executive visibility, you'll challenge conventional thinking, build alliances, and deliver results that transform Guardian's competitive edge in financial protection and retirement solutions.

Detailed Responsibilities

• Manage AI-enabled products from ideation through launch, ensuring seamless deployment.
• Develop and execute complex product roadmaps with rigorous timelines—execution is paramount.
• Lead and influence cross-functional teams, balancing collaboration with driving accountability.
• Build and nurture strong stakeholder relationships across sales, finance, legal, and tech.
• Create compelling, data-backed business cases to secure buy-in and resources.
• Analyze business problems with a data-driven lens, leveraging statistics for optimal solutions.
• Champion change management to ensure smooth adoption of AI transformations.
• Partner with data science and engineering to integrate AI models into core processes like underwriting and advisor tools.
• Monitor AI performance metrics, iterating for continuous improvement in efficiency and revenue.

Required Skills

We're seeking a strategic leader with proven expertise in AI product management and business transformation. Key skills include:

• Exceptional cross-functional leadership and influence skills
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities (statistics preferred)
• Product strategy and roadmap development
• Stakeholder management and executive communication
• Data-driven decision making
• Change management and agile execution
• AI/ML knowledge for insurance applications
• Business case development and ROI analysis

Education & Experience

• 10+ years as a product manager, management consultant, or equivalent in tech/finance.
• Track record leading strategic AI initiatives (highly preferred).
• Degree or equivalent in quantitative field (e.g., Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, Finance).
• Superb attention to detail and adaptability in dynamic environments.

Compensation Overview

Salary Range: $155,370 - $255,255 (base pay for primary New York location). Total compensation may include annual incentives, sales bonuses, or other variable pay based on performance. Final offer determined by education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

Benefits

Guardian inspires well-being with comprehensive, flexible benefits for full-time employees:

• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match and retirement planning tools
• Generous paid time off, parental leave, and family support
• Professional development, tuition reimbursement, and leadership programs
• Wellness programs, mental health resources, and flexible work options
• Philanthropic opportunities and community impact initiatives
• Explore full benefits

Equal Employment Opportunity: Guardian is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity. We provide reasonable accommodations for disabilities, pregnancy, and related conditions. All qualified applicants encouraged to apply without regard to protected classifications.

Guardian Life: Progress made personal™. Apply now for this premier Head of AI Transformation job in New York and lead the AI revolution in insurance!