Manager, Artificial Intelligence

Location: Saint Louis, MO/Fully Remote | Full-Time | Travel: Up to 30%

Are you energized by turning cutting-edge AI into real-world business solutions? Do you want to shape how an entire industry adopts and applies artificial intelligence?

NAED is seeking a Manager, Artificial Intelligence to help lead applied AI innovation across the electrical distribution channel. This is not a theoretical strategy role - it is a hands-on, execution-focused opportunity to design, deploy, and operationalize AI solutions that create measurable value for both NAED and its members.

If you thrive at the intersection of technology, strategy, and industry transformation, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Why This Role Matters

NAED is committed to elevating the electrical distribution channel through collaboration, education, and applied innovation. In partnership with the Digital Center of Excellence (DCoE) and the Director of Industry Transformation, you will help define and execute NAED's applied AI strategy - guiding distributors in responsible adoption while building practical tools that solve real operational challenges.

You'll influence both immediate innovation and NAED's longer-term AI roadmap.

What You'll Do

Lead Applied AI Execution

• Design and deploy AI-powered tools using generative AI platforms, large language models, agent-based systems, orchestration frameworks, and APIs
• Translate distributor and member needs into scalable, production-ready applications
• Oversee pilots, vendor partnerships, and implementation efforts
• Balance innovation with governance, responsible AI use, and measurable business value

Partner with Industry Stakeholders

• Serve as a trusted technical resource to distributors, manufacturers, and allied partners
• Develop applied AI use cases, demonstrations, and reference architectures members can implement
• Support AI readiness and adoption across the channel

Drive Strategic Impact

• Manage project timelines, risks, deliverables, and outcomes with disciplined execution
• Communicate progress and measurable impact to senior leadership
• Contribute to shaping NAED's long-term AI roadmap and investment priorities

Elevate Industry Education

• Contribute to NAED events through curriculum design, live demonstrations, and thought leadership
• Represent NAED in presentations, forums, and external engagements
• Bring emerging market insights and technology trends into strategic planning conversations

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree and 2–5 years of experience in applied AI, analytics, digital transformation, or related technical roles
• Demonstrated experience building and deploying AI-enabled solutions in real-world business environments
• Experience with generative AI platforms, LLMs, prompt engineering, and model evaluation
• Experience with agentic systems, orchestration frameworks, APIs, and automation workflows
• Strong analytical skills with a focus on delivering measurable business value
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences
• Proven project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Collaborative mindset with strong relationship-building skills

Preferred:

• Experience supporting digital adoption with industry partners or member organizations
• Working knowledge of distribution, supply chain, ERP, or construction software ecosystems

What Sets You Apart

• You are both strategic and hands-on.
• You balance experimentation with execution discipline.
• You stay current on emerging AI capabilities and translate them into practical applications.
• You are comfortable influencing leaders while rolling up your sleeves to build solutions.

What We Offer

Opportunity to shape AI adoption across an entire industry High-visibility role working with senior leadership Collaborative, forward-thinking culture Professional development and industry exposure Competitive compensation Comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Ongoing professional development support

If you're ready to build the future of applied AI in the electrical distribution industry, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help lead the channel's digital transformation.