APCO Worldwide

Associate Director, AI & Intelligence

Location: Chicago, Raleigh, Washington, D.C., or New York City (Hybrid)

Department: Intelligence & AI

Are you a visionary data scientist or digital analyst with a passion for AI and a talent for translating complex concepts into meaningful impact? APCO Insight is seeking an Associate Director, Intelligence & AI to lead cutting-edge, client-facing AI initiatives that shape the future of communications, reputation building and public affairs activities at top organizations.

In this role, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation—guiding AI implementation projects, mentoring junior data scientists, and collaborating with our global team of engineers and developers based in Dubai. You’ll work directly with clients and senior members of APCO to design custom AI solutions, integrating proprietary platforms and delivering strategic insights that drive real-world outcomes.

The ideal candidate is a data scientist with exceptional client-facing skills who is eager to lead research projects, drive new business opportunities, and contribute to the growth of our AI & intelligence group. This individual will thrive in a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment, where creativity and innovation are highly valued.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Insight Generation: Use structured and unstructured data to uncover trends, predict audience behavior, and inform communications strategy.
• Team Management: Oversee data scientists and analysts, fostering a culture of experimentation, excellence, and continuous learning.
• Lead AI Implementation Projects: Architect and execute end-to-end AI solutions, including NLP, predictive modeling, generative AI, and custom client integrations.
• Hands-On Technical Leadership: Write and review code, build models, and elevate the technical output of junior team members through mentorship and collaboration.
• Global Team Collaboration: Act as a thought partner to a team of engineers and developers in Dubai, ensuring seamless execution and innovation.
• Product Development: Customize and scale proprietary APCO platforms to meet client needs, integrating AI capabilities into new and existing offerings.
• Thought Leadership: Serve as an evangelist for AI within APCO and the broader industry, contributing to business planning and innovation strategy.

Desired Qualifications:

• 5–7 years of experience in AI, data science, or related fields, ideally within communications, public affairs, or consulting.
• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in computer science, data science, engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency in Python, R, and ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Hugging Face, OpenAI APIs).
• Experience with digital and social media analytics tools (e.g., Talkwalker, Brandwatch, Meltwater).
• Strong understanding of AI/ML concepts including LLMs, NLP, supervised/unsupervised learning, and model deployment.
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams or projects, and deliver complex technical projects.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to engage both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for innovation and impact.

Compensation Range

The US base salary for this position ranges from $90,000/year to $120,000/year. Our compensation range for this role is inclusive of several US geographic markets. APCO targets an employee's pay within this range to be based on several factors, which include but are not limited to relevant education, skills, job-related knowledge, qualifications, work experience, credentials, internal equity and/or geographic location.

Careers at APCO

Through our recruitment, hiring and retention efforts, APCO is committed to building teams who bring the best possible expertise and robust perspectives to our clients. We embrace differences in experience, viewpoint and ideas, starting with our values and extending to our behaviors, policies and practices. We aim to create a positive work experience and welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong and can thrive.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, national origin, citizenship, native language, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, religion, age, veteran status, neurodivergence, mental or physical disability, medical history, pregnancy, political belief or affiliation or any other characteristic protected by law.

About APCO

APCO is a global advisory and advocacy firm helping leading corporations, foundations and governments navigate a complex world and create lasting impact.

Founded in 1984, with one woman’s vision and bold action, APCO has grown into an independent, majority women-owned firm of more than 1,200 employees with work spanning 80 markets around the world.

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., APCO is comprised of strategic advisers, consultants and creators, working together across borders and functions, to provide services and expertise on financial, competitive, political and societal issues.

APCO is a trusted partner to bold purpose-led leaders, lawmakers, government officials, NGOs, the media and other stakeholders in the health, energy, technology, transportation & infrastructure and food & consumer products sectors. For 40 years, the firm has provided public affairs, crisis & reputation, impact, corporate reputation and global solutions services.

APCO is renowned for its ability to champion clients’ interests and permission to operate, build their reputation and strengthen their standing. APCO’s integrated approach and team of tenacious and empathic talent create connections and winning strategies that accelerate progress and deepen impact.

By bringing diverse people and ideas together, and working beyond traditional boundaries, APCO builds the un/common ground upon which progress is made.