Director of Product Management

Vertex Search is proud to be working in exclusive partnership with one of the most impressive and impactful research labs of the last decade. With a world-class team of researchers and engineers, they are building tech-for-good products designed to fundamentally reshape how we approach science and technology and tackling some of the world's hardest problems in medicine, humanity, and sustainability.

As they enter a critical stage of growth, they are seeking a Director of Product Management (Applied Machine Learning) to play a pivotal role in defining and driving their AI strategy. This person will lead the development of AI-powered products across global programmes, operating at the intersection of cutting-edge research and real-world impact.

As Director of Product Management, you will:

• Be motivated to build impactful AI products that accelerate scientific and technological progress.
• Thrive in fast-paced environments where the mission comes first.
• Lead and inspire diverse, interdisciplinary teams - aligning scientists, engineers, and stakeholders around a shared product vision.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership

• Define the applied AI strategy, aligned with programme missions, organisational priorities, and long-term company goals.
• Work closely with senior leadership to identify and capitalise on high-value AI/ML opportunities.
• Translate complex scientific and business problems into tangible, high-impact AI solutions.

Product Execution

• Lead cross-functional product teams (data science, engineering, software, and science) to build AI products from the ground up.
• Act as the bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring clear roadmaps and products that solve real-world problems.

Essential Skills

• Proven track record of leading AI-driven products and delivering high-impact outcomes.
• Experience in sectors such as health tech, energy, materials science, agritech, or related fields.
• Strong background in leading cross-functional teams and collaborating effectively across disciplines.
• Deep understanding of AI/ML concepts and modern software development processes.
• Ability to translate high-level goals into successful products — managing complex end-to-end lifecycles, setting OKRs, and ensuring programme success.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in a technical or scientific discipline.
• Previous startup experience, ideally within a high-growth, mission-driven environment.
• Familiarity with global technology and policy landscapes relating to AI, data science, and scientific translation.