Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy Lead

Who we are: Ketchum & Walton is a trusted manufacturers’ representative serving industry leaders in Noise Control, HVAC Equipment, and Indoor Air Quality. We help clients achieve greater efficiency and cost savings through innovative solutions in air filtration, architectural and interior noise control, HVAC systems, and vibration isolation.

We’re proud to partner with top-tier manufacturers who are committed to continuous improvement, cutting-edge research, and advancing technology. Our work environment reflects these values—creative, collaborative, and focused on solving complex problems for our clients.

At Ketchum & Walton, our core values are the foundation of everything we do. We’re a team that thinks strategically, works collectively, and strives to be a world-class organization. If you’re driven, innovative, and ready to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.

What we need: The AI Strategy Lead is a strategic, forward-thinking leader with a strong understanding of artificial intelligence and its practical business applications. They are equally comfortable setting long-term vision and rolling up their sleeves to drive execution. This individual brings a collaborative mindset, partnering effectively with business leaders, technical teams, and external partners to translate complex concepts into clear, actionable initiatives. They are data-driven, results-oriented, and thoughtful about responsible AI use, with the ability to balance innovation, risk, and operational realities. Strong communication skills, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for continuous learning are essential for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Vision

Develop and maintain the company’s AI strategy, aligned with overall business objectives.

Identify high-value opportunities where AI can enhance efficiency, customer experience, and competitive advantage.

Evaluate emerging AI trends, tools, and technologies to advise leadership on adoption and investment decisions.

AI Program & Project Management

Prioritize and oversee a portfolio of AI initiatives across departments.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams (sales, warehousing, project management, legal, finance, HR) to ensure successful execution.

Define KPIs and success metrics for AI projects and report progress to ELT.

Data & Technology Enablement

Partner with IT teams to ensure the organization has the infrastructure necessary to support scalable AI solutions.

Support the development of data governance frameworks, ensuring high-quality, ethically sourced, and secure data.

Change Management & Adoption

Lead the change management efforts required for AI adoption, including developing communication plans, training programs, and documentation.

Promote a culture of responsible AI use and ensure teams understand how to leverage AI tools safely and effectively.

Risk, Ethics & Compliance

Work with legal and IT teams to ensure AI solutions meet regulatory requirements and ethical standards.

Establish and maintain frameworks for evaluating and mitigating risks associated with AI deployments.

General Responsibilities

· Establish and maintain a trusting, inclusive, and productive environment that delivers results.

· Managing projects, training employees and monitoring project performance.

· Uphold organization’s policies and standards, ensuring all regulatory requirements are followed.

· Collaborate with the ELT in the development and delivery of key operational and continuous improvement activities.

Administrative Responsibilities

· Travel to various office locations as required in support of operations.

· Adherence to standardized work processes and technical documentation standards.

· Complies with company policies and procedures.

· Other duties as assigned

What you need: Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required.

Additional education or certifications in relevant fields are a plus.

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Technology, Data, or a related field.

4+ years of experience shaping strategy and delivering innovative, forward-thinking solutions that drive business transformation.

Demonstrated ability to set a compelling vision and translate emerging technologies into practical, high-impact initiatives.

Proven success leading complex, cross-functional programs from concept through execution.

Strong understanding of AI and data-driven capabilities, with a focus on unlocking new opportunities and competitive advantage.

Experience defining success metrics, measuring outcomes, and communicating strategic impact to executive leadership.

Exceptional communication and influence skills, with the ability to inspire alignment across technical and non-technical teams.

Willingness to travel to various office locations as needed.

Experience pioneering or scaling AI, automation, or advanced analytics solutions in a dynamic environment.

Strong perspective on responsible innovation, including data governance, privacy, security, and ethical AI use.

Background leading change, building capability through training, and driving adoption of new ways of working.

Reports to: Director of Warehouse Operations

Status: Full-Time, onsite in Columbus, OH

Job Class: Exempt

We are proud to be 100% employee-owned (ESOP) and committed to investing in our people. Our team members enjoy an extensive benefits package, including:

Annual contribution into ESOP account

100% employer-paid healthcare premiums

Biannual bonus opportunities

Paid time off, holidays, and leaves

401(k) retirement plan

And more!

Ketchum & Walton is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need—regardless of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Please note: We are not engaging with recruiting agencies for this position and will not respond to agency inquiries.