Senior Director, Applied AI and Quantum Research

Location: Toronto, ON; hybrid arrangement with 2–4 days per week on-site. Candidates must be legally eligible to work at the specified location and may need a valid work or study permit.

Company

hirify.global is a relationship-oriented bank developing technology and analytics capabilities for modern financial services.

What you will do

• Lead the enterprise applied AI and quantum research roadmap, aligning priorities with business strategy and long-term innovation opportunities.
• Guide research across machine learning, generative AI, agentic systems, optimization, quantum computing, and related technologies.
• Establish structured practices for experimentation, benchmarking, evaluation, documentation, and solution validation.
• Partner with AI Delivery, Architecture, Technology, and MLOps teams to move research outputs into scalable, monitored production solutions.
• Advance Responsible AI, model risk management, and Governed AI by Design practices in line with enterprise controls and OSFI guidance.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team of applied research scientists while building partnerships with executives, academia, industry, and vendors.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience in AI technologies, AI solutions, and delivery, including at least 3 years in leadership roles.
• Experience with applied AI, machine learning, generative AI, governance, and research-to-production delivery in complex enterprise environments.
• Deep knowledge of governance, risk practices, model risk management, enterprise AI controls, and responsible AI deployment.
• Strategic planning, business and financial acumen, organizational skills, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex concepts to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Degree or diploma in computer science, data science, mathematics, engineering, physics, or a related field.
• Legal eligibility to work in Canada at the specified Toronto location; a valid work or study permit may be required where applicable.

Nice to have

• Experience with quantum computing or quantum algorithms.
• Experience in financial services or enterprise-scale MLOps.
• Advanced degree.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid work environment with flexibility to manage work activities across on-site and remote days.
• Competitive salary, incentive pay, banking benefits, and a benefits program.
• Defined benefit pension plan, employee share purchase plan, vacation, and wellbeing support.
• Learning and development support, including a paid Purpose Day.
• Inclusive workplace with accessibility support and recognition initiatives.

Hiring process

• Applications may include an attribute-based assessment and skills tests such as simulation, coding, or French proficiency assessments.
• Artificial intelligence tools may be used during the recruitment process.