Subject Matter Expert - Industrials

Role Summary:

We are hiring a founding domain expert to build our Industrials consulting vertical.

As Industrials SME, you will bridge deep sector knowledge with AI delivery helping clients in Chemicals, Energy, and Metals & Materials translate complex operational problems into production-grade AI outcomes. You will work independently with senior client stakeholders, shape proposals that win new business, and execute delivery with rigour.

Roles & Responsibilities:

1. Solve Complex Industrial Business Problems:

- Structure ambiguous business challenges in Chemicals, Energy, and Metals & Materials into clear analytics and AI problem statements.

- Identify the highest-value intervention points where AI/ML can move the needle on yield, cost, safety, or supply chain outcomes.

- Pressure-test hypotheses with clients and refine scope before delivery begins.

2. Lead Client Engagements Independently:

- Serve as the primary point of contact for client stakeholders from plant managers to VP Operations to Chief Digital Officers.

- Run discovery workshops, alignment sessions, and steering committee reviews with minimal oversight.

- Travel to client sites as required (approximately twice a month) to build trust and keep delivery on track.

3. Execute Analytics and AI Projects End-to-End:

- Own project delivery requirements gathering, data assessment, modelling approach, implementation, and measurement.

- Work alongside data and AI engineering teams to translate business requirements into technical specifications.

- Track delivery milestones, flag risks early, and hold yourself accountable for production outcomes not just proof-of-concept metrics.

4. Shape RFP and Proposal Narratives:

- Write compelling RFP responses and proposal storylines that combine sector insight, AI credibility, and delivery differentiation.

- Develop reusable solutioning frameworks and case assets for the Industrials vertical that shorten future bid cycles.

5. Build the Industrials Practice:

- Contribute to the Industrials point of view use-case prioritisation, market sizing, and competitive positioning.

- Mentor junior analysts and associates on sector nuance and structured problem-solving.

Must-Haves - Non-Negotiable:

- 4-7 years of experience in management consulting, analytics consulting, or enterprise AI/analytics delivery.

- Direct exposure to Industrials sectors - Chemicals, Energy, Metals & Materials, or adjacent verticals.

- Working knowledge of AI/ML: able to hold credible technical conversations and scope projects.

- Proven ability to work independently with senior client stakeholders.

- Strong business problem-structuring and written communication skills.

- Experience contributing to or writing RFP responses, proposals, or solutioning documents.

Strongly Preferred:

- Background from a top-tier or boutique analytics/AI consulting firm.

- Hands-on experience executing analytics or AI projects in industrial enterprise environments.

- Familiarity with digital transformation programs - IoT, predictive maintenance, yield optimisation.

- Comfort translating AI capability into executive-level investment narratives.

Not a Fit For:

- Candidates with no client-facing delivery experience.

- Profiles that require significant technical hand-holding.

- Candidates with only academic or internal AI/ML exposure and no consulting or project execution track record.

Working Arrangement:

This is a fully remote, client-facing, execution-accountable role. You will engage directly with senior client leadership from week one, with periodic travel to client sites (approximately twice a month) required to support delivery.