Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
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Director, AI COE
role at
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey empowers our members to achieve their best health. For over 90 years, we have been New Jersey’s health solutions leader driving innovations that improve health care quality, affordability, and member experience. Our members are our neighbors, our friends, and our families. It is this understanding that drives us to better serve and care for the 3.5 million people who place their trust in us. We pride ourselves on our best-in‑class employees and strive to maintain an innovative and inclusive environment that allows them to thrive.
The
Director of the AI Center of Excellence
will lead the strategic vision, development, and execution of enterprise‑wide Artificial Intelligence initiatives within the organization. This role is responsible for driving innovation, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, and delivering AI solutions that enhance operational efficiency, improve member experience, and support clinical and financial outcomes. The Director serves as a thought leader and advisor to senior leadership, ensuring the CoE delivers measurable value and operational efficiency.
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Guide the strategic vision, roadmap, and execution of the AI CoE, ensuring the delivery of measurable business value in alignment with organizational priorities
Communicate the AI strategy and roadmap to stakeholders at all levels of the organization in a collaborative and consultative manner; build strong relationships with key stakeholders to drive AI adoption and alignment
Partner with business and IT stakeholders to identify high‑value AI technology enabled use cases, assess feasibility, and prioritize initiatives based on impact and ROI
Stay current with emerging trends in AI and healthcare technologies to guide future innovation
Influence and navigate the corporate landscape to secure resources and support for AI initiatives
Assess and quantify AI‑related risks, including potential business losses and human impacts
Ensure stakeholders are informed (e.g., explainable AI and bias detection) and promote ethical use of AI
Promote the value of AI to all levels of the organization; drive enterprise change management, including training programs to upskill staff and foster an AI‑first culture
AI Project Execution & Delivery
Oversee AI project lifecycle, from ideation to proof‑of‑concept, MVP, production deployment and maintenance; ensure successful execution of AI initiatives, on time, within budget, and in adherence to quality standards
Ensure responsible and ethical AI deployment, including explainability, bias mitigation, and secure data handling
Manage global resources, including FTEs, contractors, and external partners
Develop business cases, manage budgets, and track AI investment ROI
Technology & Innovation
Maintain a strong understanding of digital technologies and trends, with a focus on AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cloud computing; participate in industry forums and working groups to help shape future AI business technology
Collaborate with IT, architecture, and cloud teams to design scalable AI infrastructure leveraging technologies such as AWS, Azure, Databricks, Snowflake, etc.
Ensure that security and appropriate guardrails are in place for AI systems and data
Operational Excellence & Governance
Define AI governance and ethics frameworks, policies and processes to ensure responsible and compliant AI practices
Establish and maintain performance metrics, KPIs and dashboards to track AI solution performance and adoption
Lead development and maintenance of AI architecture and development artifacts, roadmaps, blueprints, patterns and other best practices; drive simplification and efficiency in AI operations
Identify opportunities for application, technology rationalization to reduce redundancy and obsolescence
Oversee the selection and implementation of tools and processes that support the effective delivery of AI services
Oversee IT risk, security, and controls related to AI systems and data; develop standards, exception process and manage technology lifecycle and obsolescence risk
Work to continually mature the AI Practice
Leadership & Talent Development
Build, develop and mentor a high‑performing AI CoE team of AI Architects and Engineers; develop and implement talent planning strategies to attract, retain, and develop top AI talent
Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement within the AI COE, encouraging knowledge sharing and experimentation
Oversee vendor selection, evaluation, and integration for AI platforms, models, and tools while managing strategic partnerships and staying current on vendor roadmaps
Support development and evaluation of RFP, RFI, RFQ process and support AI vendor contract negotiations and renewals
Education & Experience
Requires bachelor’s degree in technical discipline (computer science, engineering or data sciences) or 12 years of relevant experience in lieu of degree
Higher degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, MIS or equivalent preferred (or equivalent work experience)
15+ years of relevant overall experience in enterprise technology strategy, architecture and governance roles
Experience in AI/ML, data science and at least 5 years in leadership or strategic roles
Proven track record in implementing AI solutions in health care industry
Experience in evaluating, selecting emerging technologies, assessing potential impacts and developing adoption strategies
Healthcare Industry experience and knowledge of Payer domain preferred
Additional Licensing, Certifications, Registrations
AI/ML certifications (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud AI)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Expertise in AI/ML principles, techniques, technologies and lifecycle management
Deep knowledge of Generative AI, LLMs, RAG pipelines, NLP and advanced ML techniques
Strong technical knowledge of cloud environments (AWS, Azure), LLMOps and MLOps practices and tools, and enterprise data ecosystems
Knowledge of AI ethics and responsible AI principles
Proven ability to translate business needs into scalable, secure, and ethical AI solutions
Strong leadership skills, along with exceptional soft and interpersonal skills, including teamwork, facilitation and negotiation
Strong consulting skills, such as in targeted communications, engagement management, stakeholder management and business development
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders
Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross‑functional teams and external partners
A self‑starter with strong consulting, communication and influencing skills; strong leadership and management skills with the ability to mentor, motivate, and lead a team of technology professionals
Horizon BCBSNJ employees must live in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut or Delaware.
Salary Range $152,500 – $208,110
This compensation range is specific to the job level and takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to: education, experience, licensure, certifications, geographic location, and internal equity. This range has been created in good faith based on information known to Horizon at the time of posting. Compensation decisions are dependent on the circumstances of each case. Horizon also provides a comprehensive compensation and benefits package, which includes:
Retirement Plans
Generous PTO
Incentive Plans
Wellness Programs
Tuition Reimbursement
Disclaimer This job summary has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by colleagues within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of colleagues assigned to this job.
Equal Opportunity Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability and any other protected class as required by federal, state or local law. Horizon will consider reasonable accommodation requests as part of the recruiting and hiring process.
About Us We are the leading health insurer in New Jersey, trusted by generations of families and businesses. We are dedicated to enriching the lives and health of our members and the New Jersey communities we serve, because we live and work here too.
Our Mission We empower our members to achieve their best health.
Our Vision We are New Jersey’s health solutions leader driving innovations that improve health care quality, affordability and member experience in the markets we serve.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Director, AI COE
role at
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey empowers our members to achieve their best health. For over 90 years, we have been New Jersey’s health solutions leader driving innovations that improve health care quality, affordability, and member experience. Our members are our neighbors, our friends, and our families. It is this understanding that drives us to better serve and care for the 3.5 million people who place their trust in us. We pride ourselves on our best-in‑class employees and strive to maintain an innovative and inclusive environment that allows them to thrive.
The
Director of the AI Center of Excellence
will lead the strategic vision, development, and execution of enterprise‑wide Artificial Intelligence initiatives within the organization. This role is responsible for driving innovation, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, and delivering AI solutions that enhance operational efficiency, improve member experience, and support clinical and financial outcomes. The Director serves as a thought leader and advisor to senior leadership, ensuring the CoE delivers measurable value and operational efficiency.
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Guide the strategic vision, roadmap, and execution of the AI CoE, ensuring the delivery of measurable business value in alignment with organizational priorities
Communicate the AI strategy and roadmap to stakeholders at all levels of the organization in a collaborative and consultative manner; build strong relationships with key stakeholders to drive AI adoption and alignment
Partner with business and IT stakeholders to identify high‑value AI technology enabled use cases, assess feasibility, and prioritize initiatives based on impact and ROI
Stay current with emerging trends in AI and healthcare technologies to guide future innovation
Influence and navigate the corporate landscape to secure resources and support for AI initiatives
Assess and quantify AI‑related risks, including potential business losses and human impacts
Ensure stakeholders are informed (e.g., explainable AI and bias detection) and promote ethical use of AI
Promote the value of AI to all levels of the organization; drive enterprise change management, including training programs to upskill staff and foster an AI‑first culture
AI Project Execution & Delivery
Oversee AI project lifecycle, from ideation to proof‑of‑concept, MVP, production deployment and maintenance; ensure successful execution of AI initiatives, on time, within budget, and in adherence to quality standards
Ensure responsible and ethical AI deployment, including explainability, bias mitigation, and secure data handling
Manage global resources, including FTEs, contractors, and external partners
Develop business cases, manage budgets, and track AI investment ROI
Technology & Innovation
Maintain a strong understanding of digital technologies and trends, with a focus on AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cloud computing; participate in industry forums and working groups to help shape future AI business technology
Collaborate with IT, architecture, and cloud teams to design scalable AI infrastructure leveraging technologies such as AWS, Azure, Databricks, Snowflake, etc.
Ensure that security and appropriate guardrails are in place for AI systems and data
Operational Excellence & Governance
Define AI governance and ethics frameworks, policies and processes to ensure responsible and compliant AI practices
Establish and maintain performance metrics, KPIs and dashboards to track AI solution performance and adoption
Lead development and maintenance of AI architecture and development artifacts, roadmaps, blueprints, patterns and other best practices; drive simplification and efficiency in AI operations
Identify opportunities for application, technology rationalization to reduce redundancy and obsolescence
Oversee the selection and implementation of tools and processes that support the effective delivery of AI services
Oversee IT risk, security, and controls related to AI systems and data; develop standards, exception process and manage technology lifecycle and obsolescence risk
Work to continually mature the AI Practice
Leadership & Talent Development
Build, develop and mentor a high‑performing AI CoE team of AI Architects and Engineers; develop and implement talent planning strategies to attract, retain, and develop top AI talent
Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement within the AI COE, encouraging knowledge sharing and experimentation
Oversee vendor selection, evaluation, and integration for AI platforms, models, and tools while managing strategic partnerships and staying current on vendor roadmaps
Support development and evaluation of RFP, RFI, RFQ process and support AI vendor contract negotiations and renewals
Education & Experience
Requires bachelor’s degree in technical discipline (computer science, engineering or data sciences) or 12 years of relevant experience in lieu of degree
Higher degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, MIS or equivalent preferred (or equivalent work experience)
15+ years of relevant overall experience in enterprise technology strategy, architecture and governance roles
Experience in AI/ML, data science and at least 5 years in leadership or strategic roles
Proven track record in implementing AI solutions in health care industry
Experience in evaluating, selecting emerging technologies, assessing potential impacts and developing adoption strategies
Healthcare Industry experience and knowledge of Payer domain preferred
Additional Licensing, Certifications, Registrations
AI/ML certifications (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud AI)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Expertise in AI/ML principles, techniques, technologies and lifecycle management
Deep knowledge of Generative AI, LLMs, RAG pipelines, NLP and advanced ML techniques
Strong technical knowledge of cloud environments (AWS, Azure), LLMOps and MLOps practices and tools, and enterprise data ecosystems
Knowledge of AI ethics and responsible AI principles
Proven ability to translate business needs into scalable, secure, and ethical AI solutions
Strong leadership skills, along with exceptional soft and interpersonal skills, including teamwork, facilitation and negotiation
Strong consulting skills, such as in targeted communications, engagement management, stakeholder management and business development
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non‑technical stakeholders
Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross‑functional teams and external partners
A self‑starter with strong consulting, communication and influencing skills; strong leadership and management skills with the ability to mentor, motivate, and lead a team of technology professionals
Horizon BCBSNJ employees must live in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut or Delaware.
Salary Range $152,500 – $208,110
This compensation range is specific to the job level and takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to: education, experience, licensure, certifications, geographic location, and internal equity. This range has been created in good faith based on information known to Horizon at the time of posting. Compensation decisions are dependent on the circumstances of each case. Horizon also provides a comprehensive compensation and benefits package, which includes:
Retirement Plans
Generous PTO
Incentive Plans
Wellness Programs
Tuition Reimbursement
Disclaimer This job summary has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by colleagues within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of colleagues assigned to this job.
Equal Opportunity Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability and any other protected class as required by federal, state or local law. Horizon will consider reasonable accommodation requests as part of the recruiting and hiring process.
About Us We are the leading health insurer in New Jersey, trusted by generations of families and businesses. We are dedicated to enriching the lives and health of our members and the New Jersey communities we serve, because we live and work here too.
Our Mission We empower our members to achieve their best health.
Our Vision We are New Jersey’s health solutions leader driving innovations that improve health care quality, affordability and member experience in the markets we serve.
#J-18808-Ljbffr