Head of Machine Learning - Directeur(trice) Machine Learning

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Description

Position at DNEG

Job Description / Key Purpose of the Job:

The Head of Machine Learning at DNEG leads the strategic direction and development of advanced machine learning initiatives, driving innovation and ensuring that AI-powered solutions translate into real-world business impact. We are looking for a leader to help shape the future of ML/AI tooling in the VFX industry.

The candidate will need to collaborate with cross-functional teams to build robust AI solutions that align with the company's objectives. The role involves managing the research and development roadmap, mentoring teams, and fostering a culture of excellence, all while balancing innovation with the operational realities of a high-security production environment.

Key Responsibilities / Job Duties:

1. Execute the strategic roadmap for machine learning R&D aligned with company goals.
2. Lead, mentor, and grow a world-class machine learning team.
3. Drive innovation in areas such as deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and reinforcement learning.
4. Collaborate with product and engineering teams to integrate research breakthroughs into scalable, production-ready solutions.
5. Monitor and evaluate emerging AI technologies and recommend adoption strategies where applicable.
6. Oversee the development and maintenance of machine learning infrastructure and tools to support research and deployment.
7. Establish partnerships with academic institutions and industry organizations.

Job Requirements / Must Haves:

1. Exceptional leadership, mentorship, and communication skills.
2. Proven track record in leading machine learning R&D teams or projects.
3. Advanced degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, AI, or a related field.
4. Extensive experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch) and programming languages (e.g., Python).
5. Deep understanding of AI ethics, fairness, and interpretability.
6. Strategic thinking with the ability to define and communicate a compelling vision.

Additional Skills / Nice to Have:

1. PhD and/or strong portfolio of published research and patents in top AI conferences and journals.
2. Experience deploying large-scale machine learning models in production.
3. Familiarity with cloud platforms and MLOps best practices.
4. Proficiency in languages beyond Python, such as C++.
5. Able to knit together a high performing distributed team and communicate a consistent vision.

About You:

1. Visionary thinker with a passion for advancing the state-of-the-art in AI.
2. Collaborative and team-oriented.
3. Resilient and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
4. High level of curiosity and commitment to continuous learning.

About Us
We are DNEG, one of the world's leading visual effects and animation companies for the creation of award-winning feature film, television, and multiplatform content. We employ more than 9,000 people with worldwide offices and studios across North America (Los Angeles, Montréal, Toronto, Vancouver), Europe (London), Asia (Bangalore, Mohali, Chennai, Mumbai) and Australia (Sydney).