Executive Director National Digital Sovereignty and AI

Job Description

The Executive Director National Digital Sovereignty and AI will be a strategic visionary responsible for defining and executing a national agenda that fosters digital sovereignty and ethical AI implementation. This individual will lead interdisciplinary teams, engaging with governmental bodies, private sectors, and international organizations to design frameworks for AI governance, ensure data privacy, and safeguard national digital resources. The Executive Director will leverage deep industry insights to navigate complex policy landscapes, drive stakeholder engagement, and spearhead initiatives that position the nation as a leader in digital innovation while upholding democratic values. The role requires a profound understanding of technology trends, regulatory environments, and ethical considerations, necessitating a balance between technological advancement and societal impact.

Job Requirements

• A proven track record of at least 15 years in executive leadership roles within technology, digital governance, or policy formulation, demonstrating substantial achievements in strategic program development and execution.
• Expertise in digital sovereignty principles, data protection laws, AI ethics, and emerging technology trends to inform policy recommendations and operational standards.
• Extensive experience in stakeholder management, including engagement with government officials, industry leaders, and civil society organizations to foster collaboration and drive consensus.
• Advanced analytical and strategic thinking skills to identify potential challenges and develop innovative solutions focused on national interests and societal benefits.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas succinctly to diverse audiences, including policymakers, technologists, and the general public.
• Proven ability to lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams, facilitating professional development and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.
• Experience in budget management, resource allocation, and securing funding for national initiatives focused on digital sovereignty and AI.
• Familiarity with international frameworks and best practices for digital governance and AI strategy to align national policies with global standards.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive national strategy for digital sovereignty and AI that aligns with government priorities and societal needs.
• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the national agenda on digital sovereignty and AI, advocating for policies that protect national interests and promote ethical technology use.
• Establish collaborative partnerships with public and private sectors, guiding coalitions toward shared objectives in digital governance and technology advancements.
• Monitor and analyze global technology trends, policy changes, and ethical considerations to inform national strategy and ensure proactive adaptation to emerging challenges.
• Lead initiatives aimed at enhancing public understanding of digital sovereignty, data privacy, and responsible AI usage through outreach programs and educational campaigns.
• Oversee the development of metrics to assess the effectiveness of digital sovereignty programs and their impact on national security and public trust in technology.
• Foster an organizational culture that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion within technology development and deployment, ensuring varied perspectives in decision-making processes.
• Actively engage with international bodies to advocate for national priorities and contribute to the global discourse on responsible AI and digital governance.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership capabilities with a demonstrated ability to inspire and unify teams toward a common vision and strategic objectives.
• In-depth knowledge of AI technologies, their societal implications, and the challenges they pose to digital sovereignty and ethical governance.
• Proficient in project management methodologies to effectively oversee multi-faceted programs and initiatives from inception to execution.
• Mastery in negotiating and conflict resolution to address and navigate competing interests among diverse stakeholders effectively.
• High level of proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, enabling informed decision-making and policy formulation based on empirical evidence.
• Excellent writing and reporting skills for preparing comprehensive briefs, policy papers, and communication materials for internal and external stakeholders.
• Capacity to balance technical requirements with ethical considerations in technology deployment, ensuring alignment with broader social values.
• Strong networking abilities to cultivate relationships with stakeholders across sectors, fostering an environment of collaboration and shared success.

Key skills/competency

• Digital Sovereignty
• AI Governance
• Policy Formulation
• Strategic Leadership
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Data Privacy
• Ethical AI
• National Security
• International Relations
• Program Management