Director, AI Research and Innovation Programs

Director, AI Research and Innovation Programs Location: 401 GEORGIA ST W:VANCOUVER Job Description Director, AI Research and Innovation Programs What's the opportunity? We’re looking for a Director, AI Research and Innovation Programs to lead our AI research and innovation initiatives that drive RBC Borealis’ leadership in AI for financial services. This strategic role focuses on three key areas: R&D program management, external AI community partnerships, and AI reputation building. At RBC Borealis, you’ll be joining a team that works directly with leading researchers in machine learning, has access to rich and massive datasets, and offers the computational resources to support ongoing development in areas such as reinforcement learning, unsupervised learning and computer vision. You can find out more about our research areas at rbcborealis.com. Your responsibilities include: Lead a portfolio of AI programs including research paper publication processes, patent development, technology incubation, and internship programs Manage and develop a team of professionals including program managers responsible for individual initiatives within the portfolio Execute strategic partnerships with leading academic institutions, research organizations, and industry consortiums Represent RBC Borealis at premier AI conferences and industry forums to establish thought leadership Develop and execute strategies to position RBC Borealis as the premier destination for AI research talent Oversee publication strategy for high-impact research and thought leadership content Allocate research budgets and establish success metrics across program verticals Partner with RBC stakeholders to ensure research alignment with strategic priorities and market opportunities You're our ideal candidate if you have: Master's or PhD degree with extensive experience leading and managing research programs in academic or industry settings 8-10 years of progressive leadership experience in research program management, technology innovation, or strategic partnerships Proven track record managing complex, multi-year research programs Deep understanding of AI/ML technologies with ability to assess technical merit and commercial potential Demonstrated success in negotiating strategic partnerships with academic institutions and industry organizations Outstanding communication skills with experience presenting to C-suite executives and external audiences Experience building and leading high-performing teams in fast-paced, innovative environments Financial services or fintech experience preferred What's in it for you? Become part of a team that thinks progressively and works collaboratively. We care about seeing each other reach full potential; A comprehensive Total Rewards Program including bonuses and flexible benefits, competitive compensation, commissions, and stock options where applicable; Leaders who support your development through coaching and managing opportunities; Ability to make a difference and lasting impact from a local-to-global scale. About RBC Borealis RBC Borealis is the driving force behind Royal Bank of Canada’s AI and data innovation. As part of Canada’s largest financial institution, we bring together a team of architects, engineers, scientists, and product experts on a mission to revolutionize finance through world-class research, solutions, and a resilient data platform. With locations across Toronto, Waterloo, Montreal, Calgary, and Vancouver, we’re at the forefront of AI research and platform development. With a focus on cutting-edge research in areas like time series forecasting, causal machine learning, and responsible AI, we are seamlessly integrating AI research and data engineering, to solve critical challenges in the financial industry. We are building intelligent, and scalable, data-driven solutions that will help communities thrive and drive innovation for our customers across the bank. Inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employment RBC is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We are pleased to consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veterans status, Aboriginal/Native American status or any other legally-protected factors. Disability-related accommodations during the application process are available upon request. #TECHPJ #Ll-POST Job Skills Coaching Others, Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Industry Knowledge, Machine Learning (ML), Results-Oriented Additional Job Details Address: 401 GEORGIA ST W:VANCOUVER City: Vancouver Country: Canada Work hours/week: 37.5 Employment Type: Full time Platform: TECHNOLOGY AND OPERATIONS Job Type: Regular Pay Type: Salaried Posted Date: 2026-05-12 Application Deadline: 2026-06-05 Note:Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the application deadline date above Our Employment Opportunities At RBC, we are guided by living shared values of Client First, Integrity, Collaboration, Respect and Excellence and winning together as One RBC. We believe an inclusive workplace that has diverse perspectives is core to our continued growth as one of the largest and most successful banks in the world. Maintaining a workplace where our employees feel supported to perform at their best, effectively collaborate, drive innovation, and grow professionally helps to bring our Purpose to life and create value for our clients and communities. RBC strives to deliver this through policies and programs intended to foster a workplace based on respect, belonging and opportunity for all. Join our Talent Community Stay in-the-know about great career opportunities at RBC. Sign up and get customized info on our latest jobs, career tips and Recruitment events that matter to you. Expand your limits and create a new future together at RBC. Find out how we use our passion and drive to enhance the well-being of our clients and communities at jobs.rbc.com. RBC is presently inviting candidates to apply for this existing vacancy. Applying to this posting allows you to express your interest in this current career opportunity at RBC. Qualified applicants may be contacted to review their resume in more detail.