Data Solutions Director

Summary

Join Rackspace as a Director of Solutions to lead the design and sales of cutting-edge AI and Data Engineering solutions. This role requires a 50/50 split between solution design and enterprise account ownership, demanding both technical leadership and presales expertise. You will lead the design and architecture of innovative solutions, act as the Product Owner, and develop solution documentation. Additionally, you will serve as the presales lead for enterprise accounts, building relationships with key stakeholders and developing compelling proposals. The ideal candidate possesses deep experience in AI/ML or Data Engineering, strong communication skills, and a proven track record of success in enterprise organizations. This highly visible role offers a significant impact on Rackspace's future in the Analytics & AI space.

Requirements

• Deep experience in either AI/ML or Data Engineering (cross-functional experience highly preferred)
• At least 5 years of experience as a senior-level data scientist or data architect, with demonstrable success delivering 5+ full-scale data projects utilizing cloud-native tooling on AWS, Azure, or GCP
• Proficiency in relevant programming languages such as Python, PySpark, and SQL
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms, and NLP/NLU techniques
• Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Excellent presentation, whiteboarding, and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated success in managing ambiguity, collaborating across departments, and exceeding expectations in fast-paced environments
• Strong knowledge of technology and industry trends impacting enterprise data analytics decisions
• Proven track record of success working through technical challenges within enterprise organizations
• Highly motivated self-starter and team player with demonstrated leadership abilities
• Exceptional time management and prioritization skills

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of innovative AI and Data Engineering solutions for Rackspace’s enterprise customers, leveraging cloud-native tools on AWS, Azure, or GCP. This includes defining roadmap, features, and functionalities as well as demo flows
• Act as the Product Owner for these solutions, guiding development teams (while not directly coding) to ensure alignment with business objectives and market needs. This involves managing backlogs, prioritizing features, and ensuring timely delivery
• Develop solution documentation to support selling and positioning, including high-level designs, architecture diagrams, and solution briefs
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in AI/ML and Data Engineering, identifying opportunities to enhance Rackspace’s solution offerings
• Contribute to the development of Rackspace intellectual property, such as white papers and presentations
• Serve as the presales lead for named enterprise accounts, positioning and selling the designed AI and Data Engineering solutions
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders across various customer teams (Business Owners, Business Analytics, Data Engineering, Application Development, End Users, and Management)
• Conduct consultative engagements to understand customer business challenges and map them to appropriate Rackspace solutions
• Develop compelling proposals, Statements of Work (SOWs), business cases, and RFP responses
• Collaborate with the sales team to develop account prioritization and support strategies that foster long-term relationships
• Participate in sales planning and forecasting activities

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with deep learning libraries (TensorFlow/PyTorch), Spark/Hadoop is useful
• Cross-functional experience

Benefits

• $202,100 - $355,410 a year
• Variable compensation in the form of bonus, commissions, or other discretionary payments