Systems Planning & Analysis · 1 week ago
Senior Director, Applied Artificial Intelligence
Alexandria, VA
Full-time
Hybrid
Director/Executive
15+ years expSystems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues and is seeking a Senior Director for Applied Artificial Intelligence. The role involves leading the development and execution of AI/ML strategies, overseeing technology innovations, and driving business growth through AI/ML-enabled contracts while ensuring compliance with government requirements.
AnalyticsInformation Technology
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Lead the development and execution of the SPA’s AI/ML and intelligent automation strategy focused on application against government customer mission requirements, aligning innovative solutions with federal priorities such as national security, mission efficiency, and responsible AI adoption
Oversee the development of technology innovations of AI/ML, agentic AI, and automation solutions in support of corporate research initiatives. Lead transition of internal research investments to active contracts, in support of new business initiatives, and commercial opportunities
Assure AI/ML solutions meet evolving stringent government requirements for performance, security, scalability of solutions and platforms. Working with the CCO and SPA leadership to define AI/ML policy for safe and secure usage of AI
Serve as a trusted advisor to SPA stakeholders and senior government stakeholders (e.g., DoD, IC, HS), translating complex AI/ML capabilities into mission-impactful outcomes like predictive analytics, digital engineering, digital program management, autonomous systems, and process optimization
Assist in driving business growth by identifying, supporting pursuit, and capture of new opportunities in AI/ML-enabled contracts across defense, intelligence, and civilian agencies; collaborate on proposals, bid strategies in support of AI solution transition
Oversee the delivery of AI/ML and automation solutions on active contracts, ensuring on-time, on-budget execution while meeting stringent government requirements for performance, security, and scalability
Build and mentor a high-performing team of AI/ML engineers, data scientists, and automation specialists; foster a culture of innovation, technical excellence, and collaboration across practices
Assist in establishing and enforcing AI governance frameworks, including ethical AI practices, risk management, bias mitigation, and compliance with federal policies (e.g., Executive Orders on AI, NIST standards, FedRAMP, and IL5/6+ platforms)
Assist in forging strategic partnerships with technology providers (e.g., cloud hyperscalers, AI platform vendors) and academia to accelerate capability development and maintain competitive edge in government bids
Monitor emerging AI/ML trends, threats (e.g., adversarial AI), and regulatory changes; provide thought leadership through white papers, conferences, and internal briefings to position the firm as a leader in government AI
Champion workforce development in AI/ML skills, including training programs and clearance-sponsored initiatives, to build a pipeline of talent ready for classified and unclassified government work
Qualification
Required
A leader who can operationalize ideas into innovative solutions to meet national security mission needs with a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and automation
15+ years of relevant experience working in technologically demanding fields (e.g. engineering, software development, AI, agentic AI, automation, and data science)
Excellent oral and written communicator with demonstrated ability to actively listen, encourage discussion and productive debate, and communicate complex topics to technologists and non-technical audiences
Demonstrated commitment to integrity, collaboration, excellence, agility, and diversity
Experience communicating to senior organizational leaders
Experience leading multidisciplinary teams
A thought leader that harnesses SPA's expertise and cultural values to develop and share innovative perspectives and approaches inside the company and outwardly with industry and academia at conferences and professional gatherings
Experience leading and mentoring staff at various stages of their careers to help them deliver their best performance and promote their development
Experience managing corporate intellectual property (IP) in a Federal contracting landscape (especially supporting the delivery technology IP as a part of customer professional service engagements)
Secret clearance or above with opportunity to receive a TS/SCI
Willingness to work in-person at SPA's Alexandria, Virginia, Headquarters or a negotiated alternative for Hybrid work
Company
Systems Planning & Analysis
Systems Planning & Analysis (SPA) is a leading global provider of data-driven analytical insights for critical national security programs.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
unknown2021-10-06Acquired
Leadership Team
Rich Sawchak
Chief Executive Officer
Bruce Phillips
Vice President, Emerging Markets Growth
Recent News
Washington Technology
2025-12-13
2025-12-08
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2025-10-10
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