AI Defense Director

AI develops AI solutions applied to complex data such as high-resolution satellite imagery, FMV (Full Motion Video) streams, and acoustic signals. These solutions rely on algorithms capable of automatically detecting and identifying objects of interest in the defense, aerospace, and government sectors. 0 initiatives.

For example, AI-powered image analysis can assist inspectors responsible for examining critical components by helping them detect potential anomalies from digital images.

With a workforce of 250 employees, you will work within passionate, multidisciplinary teams that bring together some of the industry's most recognized talents, all driven by a shared commitment to excellence and technological innovation. AI’s international expansion, we are looking to base a Director AI for Defense Canada in Canada.

AI’s practice within the Canadian Defense & Intelligence market. This is a senior leadership role combining strategic vision, hands-on business development and, in the longer term, team building. AI's products to Canada’s specific operational and regulatory requirements. AI’s mission.

This role demands an entrepreneurial mindset, some autonomy, a deep understanding of the Canadian defense ecosystem, and the ability to operate effectively within a large, matrixed multinational organization. AI’s strategy for the Canadian Defense & Intelligence market, identifying priority domains, capability gaps, and competitive positioning. AI’s market approach and product roadmap adaptation.

Stakeholder engagement & relationship management: Build and sustain trusted relationships with senior decision-makers across the Canadian Armed Forces, Department of National Defence, CSIS, and other relevant government agencies. ) to build brand awareness and establish thought leadership. AI’s global engineering and product teams.

Business development & revenue growth: Identify, qualify, and pursue opportunities across Canadian defense programs, including sole-source and competitive procurements, and coordinate proposal efforts with internal teams. AI’s strategic interests and long-term market positioning in Canada.

AI team in Canada, the ability to collaborate effectively with the rest of the group's local teams will be critical, including mobilizing local resources where appropriate).

Industrial & academic partnerships: Develop and manage a network of strategic partnerships with Canadian defense primes, system integrators, AI champions, SMEs, and universities to strengthen Safran’s local industrial footprint and innovation pipeline. AI as a credible, value-adding partner in major Canadian defense programs. AI at the forefront of Canadian defense AI innovation.

AI, Safran Defense & Space Canada, and Safran group leadership, and take full ownership of its execution. AI, Safran Defense & Space Canada and Safran group on strategic progress, pipeline status, risks, and opportunities. , CADSI), and policy forums to shape the national defense AI agenda. AI’s position as a trusted technology partner for Canada’s defense and intelligence missions.

AI’s growth in Canada. AI products to meet the operational, linguistic, and security requirements of the Canadian Armed Forces and intelligence community. AI’s global vision and local market realities. AI’s development in Canada.   Your profile Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Defense Studies, or a related technical or strategic field.

Advanced degree (MBA, Master’s in Defense Management, or equivalent) is a strong asset. Canadian Forces Staff College or equivalent senior military education is highly valued.

Experience: 15+ years of combined experience in the Canadian Armed Forces and/or intelligence community, followed by a successful transition into the Canadian defense industry, with demonstrated impact in both environments.

Proven track record of building and scaling teams, winning complex defense contracts, and driving growth within a large industrial or technology company, with the agility of an entrepreneur. Established network across DND, CAF, Public Services and Procurement Canada, and key Canadian defense primes; familiarity with Canadian security clearance frameworks is essential.

). Exceptional leadership and people skills - able to inspire and develop high-performing teams while managing stakeholders across military, government, industry, and corporate environments. Strong business acumen with experience building business plans and navigating complex procurement processes in the Canadian defense sector.

Entrepreneurial mindset: comfortable building from scratch, operating with ambiguity, and making high-impact decisions, while navigating the structures and processes of a large, global organization. Bilingual (English/French) is a significant asset given Canada’s official language requirements; active Canadian security clearance (Secret or above) is required or must be obtainable.

Track record of influencing at the executive level (whether as a senior military officer, industry VP, or both) with a reputation for integrity, vision, and delivery.  Team-spirit.

Agility and the ability to bootstrap when necessary   Working Conditions Regarding the type of contract, there are two possible scenarios:Scenario 1: Hiring a candidate based in France who will be relocating to the site. Scenario 2: A local hiring with a local contract. Depending on the scenario selected, the benefits and compensation package may vary.

These will be presented and detailed during the initial discussion with the Talent Acquisition teams.  Based in Canada, this position requires a high degree of availability for frequent travel (customer and partner meetings, conferences, workshops), representing approximately 50% of working time. Remote working from another city in Canada is possible.