AI and Innovation Manager

This is a position within Keller Executive Search and not with one of its clients.

As the AI and Innovation Manager in Auckland, New Zealand, this senior role is accountable for shaping ai and innovation strategy and delivering measurable outcomes across the business. The position partners closely with cross‑functional leaders, drives operational excellence, and scales processes to support growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Set a clear multi‑year strategy and translate it into quarterly plans with accountable metrics.
• Lead teams with a focus on coaching, psychological safety, and high performance.
• Pilot and productize AI solutions, ensuring safety, effectiveness, and ROI.
• Build data‑driven operating rhythms, dashboards, and continuous‑improvement loops.
• Own budgets and vendor relationships; negotiate contracts that balance value, risk, and speed.
• Design compliant processes aligned to local regulations and internal policies.
• Partner with Sales, Marketing, and People Operations to execute company priorities.
• Represent the function to senior leadership; prepare crisp updates and decision memos.
  
  

To learn more about Keller, please see: https://www.kellerexecutivesearch.com/executive-recruitment-headhunters-new-zealand-auckland-and-wellington/

Requirements

• 7+ years in progressively senior roles within the relevant discipline; experience leading managers.
• Demonstrated success building scalable processes and delivering against OKRs.
• Strong analytical and financial acumen; fluency with data tools and business cases.
• Excellent stakeholder management and executive communication skills.
• Working knowledge of applicable local laws, standards, and industry best practices.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or certifications are advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation: NZ$ 125,000–152,000 NZD
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Company culture: Flat management structure with direct access to decision‑makers; open communication environment.
• Full medical coverage.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Keller Executive Search provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs, without regard to protected characteristics under applicable law.

Commitment to Diversity:
An inclusive and equitable workplace is actively fostered. Hiring, development, and advancement practices are designed to broaden representation and ensure fair access to opportunity.

Data Protection and Privacy:
Personal data is processed solely for recruitment and employment purposes, in accordance with applicable data‑protection laws (including GDPR where relevant). Information may be retained for compliance and legitimate interests, subject to data minimization and security controls.

Pay Equity:
Compensation practices are reviewed to support pay equity for substantially similar work, accounting for bona fide factors such as experience, education, and performance.

Health and Safety:
Workplace health and safety obligations are observed in line with applicable national and local requirements. Employees are expected to follow all safety policies and promptly report hazards.

Compliance with Law:
All recruitment, selection, and employment practices are conducted in compliance with applicable laws and regulations in the jurisdiction of employment.

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.