Principal (Director) - Data Analytics & AI Consulting

About the role

Are you an exceptional technology leader who thrives at the intersection of business strategy, digital transformation and state-of-the-art AI? Do you want to take ownership of critical strategic decisions and build the future of EPAM’s European Data & AI Practice? EPAM is looking for a Principal (Director) - Data Analytics & AI Consulting to join our team in Amsterdam, Netherlands in a hybrid working mode. In this senior‑level role, you will act as a trusted advisor to C‑suite and executive‑level clients, helping them navigate complex data modernisation journeys and adopt production‑ready AI. As a key authority within the practice, you will collaborate with other leaders to define our go‑to‑market strategies, lead pre‑sales campaigns, design next‑generation Generative and Agentic AI offerings and champion Responsible AI frameworks across the Netherlands and Western Europe.

Responsibilities

• Partner with C‑level and executive stakeholders to define enterprise‑wide data, analytics and AI strategies that drive growth and transformation.
• Lead the development of advanced UK and European practice offerings, focusing on Generative AI, Agentic AI and LLMOps.
• Identify and qualify new Data and AI consulting opportunities, owning the sales pipeline for existing accounts and new pursuits.
• Architect high‑level solutions, respond to complex RFPs/RFIs, draft commercial proposals and lead client pitches for large‑scale engagements.
• Shape, scope and price consulting engagements, establishing delivery models and optimal team structures.
• Provide senior oversight and technical direction to cross‑functional teams to ensure high‑quality on‑time delivery.
• Champion EPAM’s Responsible AI and security frameworks, guiding clients on ethical AI deployment, bias mitigation and compliance with regulations such as the EU AI Act.
• Oversee transition from sales to delivery, ensuring alignment of client expectations and technical requirements.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to consulting teams fostering talent growth across data and AI disciplines.
• Stay ahead of emerging trends such as agentic workflows and data mesh, introducing new methodologies and representing EPAM at key industry events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Economics or a related field or relevant work experience.
• Proven track record in a Director, Principal or equivalent leadership role within a top‑tier technology consulting firm.
• Demonstrated success in driving business development, leading pre‑sales efforts and securing funding for large Data and AI projects.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with ability to influence and advise executive stakeholders up to C‑level.
• Deep expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning and generative AI applications with strong knowledge of MLOps and LLMOps lifecycles.
• Advanced understanding of cloud‑scale data platforms such as AWS, Azure, GCP or Databricks and data engineering best practices.
• Knowledge of data governance, data security and emerging AI regulatory frameworks including the EU AI Act.
• Experience orchestrating multi‑disciplinary teams across regions and time zones.
• Proactive and entrepreneurial approach to problem‑solving with ability to bring structure to ambiguous business challenges.
• Fluent in a European language such as Dutch, French or German is highly desirable.