Location: Washington, DC, United States
The Urban Institute is a research-to-impact institution that delivers evidence and solutions to improve lives and strengthen communities. It is seeking a founding Senior Director to lead its new AI Studio, a center within the Technology and Data Science Department. The Senior Director reports to the Vice President of Technology and Data Science & Chief Information Officer. The Studio will be a trusted partner for governments, nonprofits, philanthropies, and technology organizations that want practical, evidence-based AI solutions grounded in public policy expertise.
The Senior Director will build and lead a portfolio of applied AI engagements that produce measurable benefits for partners, strengthen Urban's capabilities, generate reusable methods and evidence, and establish a sustainable operating model for the Studio.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and drive the Studio's long-term strategy, growth trajectory, and work portfolio.
- Build a sustainable pipeline of philanthropy- and partner-supported initiatives with Urban's leadership and development teams.
- Identify where AI can improve systems, services, and outcomes, and turn those opportunities into actionable engagements.
- Position Urban as a national thought leader at the intersection of AI, public policy, and social impact.
- Cultivate partnerships with governments, philanthropies, nonprofits, technology companies, researchers, and civic innovators.
- Convene technologists, social scientists, practitioners, and community leaders to develop solutions grounded in real-world needs.
- Lead multidisciplinary teams delivering responsible, user-centered, and evidence-driven AI initiatives.
- Advance new approaches for evaluating AI systems and measuring their effects on people, organizations, and communities.
- Explore opportunities to develop public goods, reusable tools, and shared infrastructure.
- Build organizational capabilities that help Urban and its partners navigate rapid technological change.
Required qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; advanced degree preferred.
- 10+ years of progressively responsible leadership experience building, scaling, or leading high-impact programs, initiatives, or business units.
- Entrepreneurial mindset, sound judgment, and a bias towards action.
- Demonstrated experience at the intersection of strategy, technology, public policy, research, philanthropy, or social impact.
- Ability to cultivate a broad network of AI, technology, research, and policy leaders.
- Proven success securing funding, developing strategic partnerships, and engaging leaders across sectors.
- Strong understanding of emerging technologies and their applications to public and social challenges.
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
- Experience leading diverse teams and fostering a culture of innovation, learning, and execution.
- Deep commitment to evidence and the responsible use of technology in service of the public good.
The expected salary range is $200,000 - $250,000, with a benefits package that includes paid time off, medical, dental and vision insurance, and a 403(b) retirement plan.
HOW TO APPLY:
Apply online via the Urban Institute careers portal (Workday). For technical issues with the application, contact Talent Management at TalentManagement@urban.org.
https://urban.wd115.myworkdayjobs.com/Urban-Careers/job/The-Urban-Institute-DC/Senior-Director--AI-Studio_R-801661/apply