Director, AI Transformation - Commercial Finance

About the role

We are actively searching for an AI transformation leader who will fundamentally reshape how we handle deal review and commercial finance operations through advanced technology. This position is responsible for driving the strategic adoption of AI and intelligent automation, moving our department decisively away from reliance on traditional manual methods and error-prone spreadsheets. You will own the end-to-end identification, design, and implementation of AI solutions specifically tailored for finance, working hand-in-hand with commercial finance, sales operations, and revenue recognition specialists. Your core mission involves critically analyzing our existing workflows to pinpoint opportunities where artificial intelligence can enhance, streamline, or completely reimagine current processes. You will establish the foundational architecture for AI deployment within the finance function, ensuring that new capabilities are scalable, secure, and aligned with broader enterprise objectives. This role requires a strategic thinker who can translate complex technological possibilities into clear business value for the commercial finance organization. You will be the primary driver in determining which aspects of our finance processes are ripe for AI intervention and responsible for their successful execution. Ultimately, you will define the future state of AI-powered commercial finance at IFS, setting the standard for innovation and efficiency across the global team.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Spearhead the formulation and execution of a comprehensive AI and automation strategy for the commercial finance function, managing the full lifecycle from opportunity identification through deployment and optimization.
• Design and implement advanced AI technologies and intelligent automation solutions specifically aimed at replacing manual, repetitive tasks such as document review, validation checks, and data reconciliation within finance workflows.
• Establish robust technical and governance standards for the use of AI across the finance department, including the implementation of model risk management protocols and adherence to responsible AI principles.
• Lead the enhancement of the Deal Approval Request process by leveraging AI to automate critical subtasks such as initial credit checks, data extraction, and preliminary revenue recognition assessments.
• Collaborate seamlessly with the dedicated CRM implementation team to ensure that all AI solutions are architected for deep integration with customer relationship management platforms from the outset.
• Analyze and evaluate existing finance processes to identify specific bottlenecks and areas where AI can deliver measurable improvements in efficiency, accuracy, and employee satisfaction.
• Develop and maintain a prioritized roadmap of AI initiatives, clearly articulating the business case, required resources, and expected outcomes for each potential project.
• Partner with data and infrastructure teams to ensure that the underlying data architecture supports the reliable and secure operation of AI and automation tools.
• Champion the adoption of emerging AI tools and platforms, providing technical guidance and support to finance teams across the organization.
• Define and track key performance indicators for AI initiatives, focusing on metrics such as reduced cycle time, improved error rates, and increased processing volume without proportional headcount growth.
• Foster a culture of innovation within the commercial finance organization by promoting awareness and understanding of AI capabilities and limitations.
• Act as the central subject matter expert for AI within finance, advising senior leadership and cross-functional partners on the strategic application of these technologies.
• Ensure all AI implementations comply with relevant internal policies, external regulations, and industry best practices regarding data privacy and security.
• Drive continuous improvement by regularly reviewing the performance of deployed AI solutions and identifying opportunities for further refinement and expansion.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience in designing, implementing, and scaling AI and automation solutions within complex, highly regulated environments such as finance, legal, or similar corporate functions.
• Possess hands-on expertise with Large Language Model (LLM) orchestration frameworks, agent design patterns, and a broad range of automation platforms including but not limited to UiPath, Power Automate, or similar tools.
• Proven ability to construct compelling business cases for significant AI investments, clearly demonstrating value through quantifiable metrics like cycle time reduction, error rate improvement, and cost avoidance.
• Deep knowledge of AI governance frameworks, responsible AI principles, and the practical application of these concepts to ensure safe, ethical, and compliant deployment of AI technologies.
• Extensive experience integrating AI-driven solutions with core enterprise software systems, particularly Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms.
• A strong track record of leading and managing complex, multi-faceted transformation programs that span different regions and business units within a global context.
• Solid understanding of the unique challenges and requirements associated with deploying AI in a multi-entity, international organization with diverse operational and regulatory landscapes.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills, enabling effective collaboration with both technical and non-technical stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• The ability to translate ambiguous business problems into well-defined technical requirements for AI and automation solutions.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with the specific nuances, challenges, and best practices within commercial finance, sales finance, or revenue operations processes.
• Direct experience working within a multi-entity, global organization that manages international sales operations and complex revenue recognition processes.

Skills & tools

• Demonstrated proficiency in leveraging LLM-based technologies and intelligent automation solutions to solve real-world business problems.
• Hands-on experience with industry-leading platforms such as Microsoft Copilot, UiPath, and Power Automate for building and deploying automated workflows.
• A proven leadership record of successfully driving AI transformation initiatives across multiple regions and diverse business units.

Practical notes

• We offer flexible and hybrid work arrangements to accommodate diverse needs and lifestyles, fostering a sense of community and innovation.
• IFS is a global company with over 7,000 employees, committed to delivering enterprise software solutions and promoting sustainability and diversity.

Join IFS and become part of a global team where you can make a meaningful impact. If you're ready to challenge the norm and drive change, we invite you to join Team Purple.