Lead, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies

About the World Economic Forum:

The World Economic Forum, committed to improving the state of the world, is the international organization for public-private cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas.

About the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) :

This position is part of the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR). The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) helps leaders anticipate exponential technologies and drive responsible sectoral and industry transformation. The C4IR brings together leaders from business, government, international organizations, academia and civil society to shape the global agenda on technology governance and technology applications for industries and society.

Why we are recruiting:

Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform industries, economies, and societal structures at an unprecedented pace. From redefining business models to altering global economic dynamics, AI is a primary driver of change across sectors. 

To stay ahead of these shifts, we are seeking a Lead who can drive a deep understanding of AI’s impact, analysing its effects on industries, economy, market competitiveness, and society at large.

This individual will explore the broader implications of AI’s transformation across economies, lead initiatives to address AI's challenges and opportunities, and contribute to the Forum’s efforts in shaping a responsible, future-focused AI agenda for industry and society.

Reporting Lines and Interactions:

The Lead will report to the Head, AI Applications and Impact, based in Geneva. Operating within an entrepreneurial and dynamic environment, the Lead will navigate multiple teams and geographic locations to effectively fulfil the responsibilities of the role.

This role entails close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the broader AIGA team located in Geneva, San Francisco, New York, China, and Japan. Additionally, there will be interaction with the C4IR Network and Partnerships team, as well as direct engagement with staff from these affiliate centres. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

AI’s Impact on industry and the economy
•    Analyse the evolving impact of AI on industries, markets, and the global economy, identifying trends and implications for business and policy leaders.
•    Develop and drive thought leadership on AI’s role in economic competitiveness, industry disruption, and value creation.
•    Engage with global experts and leaders to understand AI’s macroeconomic effects, shaping the global dialogue on AI’s societal and economic impact.

Initiatives management and execution
•    Design and manage flagship initiatives that address AI’s role in shaping industry structures, economic models, and societal outcomes.
•    Coordinate AI-related workstreams across the Forum, ensuring alignment with the AI Governance Alliance and broader institutional efforts.
•    Develop reports, frameworks, and strategic insights that help leaders navigate AI-driven transformations in their sectors.

Community and ecosystem engagement
•    Build, curate and lead multi-stakeholder communities focused on AI’s transformative impact across industries and society, fostering collaboration between business, government, academia, and civil society.
•    Cultivate partnerships with organizations at the forefront of AI innovation, particularly in leading technology hubs and regions.
•    Represent the Forum in high-level discussions on AI’s economic and industrial impact, shaping global dialogues on responsible AI adoption.

Team management and leadership
•    Lead and mentor colleagues, fostering collaboration, innovation, and professional development.
•    Oversee project teams, including Forum staff, fellows, and external contributors, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
•    Manage resources effectively, setting clear objectives, tracking progress, and driving execution across multiple workstreams.

Qualifications and Skills:

•    12-15 years of experience in strategy, innovation, AI and digital technologies, industry transformation, macroeconomics, or a related field.
•    A master’s degree in business, economics, technology, public policy, engineering, finance, or a related discipline.
•    Deep understanding of AI’s impact on industries, markets, and economies, with a demonstrated ability to analyze macroeconomic trends and emerging technology-driven shifts.
•    Proven ability to lead strategic initiatives in complex, multi-stakeholder environments, working with business leaders, policymakers, and civil society.
•    Strong ecosystem-building skills, with experience managing partnerships across government, industry, and academia.
•    Excellent verbal and written communication, with a track record of thought leadership (e.g., reports, articles, speaking engagements).
•    Strategic thinker with the ability to synthesize trends, develop frameworks, and communicate complex ideas clearly.
•    Experience in team leadership and project execution, with the ability to manage high-performing teams and cross-functional collaborations.

Why work at the Forum:

The Forum believes that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to improve the state of the world by building awareness and cooperation, shaping mindsets and agendas, and driving collective action. Join us and become a driver for positive change!