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General Manager, AI - US-Based

Job Summary:


Toptal is an innovative organization that is disrupting the global professional services and talent market. As General Manager, AI you will play a pivotal role in driving Toptal’s growth by serving as the end-to-end owner of a new, high-impact business line. Leveraging your product and entrepreneurial experience, you will build the business from the ground up, starting with market positioning and strategy, through establishing product-market fit, and then, towards profitability and scalable business operations.


This is a remote position. Resumes and communication must be submitted in English.


Responsibilities:


The following information is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or required skills.


Your primary objective will be to ensure the success of the business, the single accountable owner for the business P&L. You will work closely with Executive and Senior Leadership to ensure the business is aligned with the broader growth goals of Toptal, and represents the Toptal brand in every aspect.


As you build your business strategy, you will analyze market and industry opportunities and identify those with the highest potential. Following an agile approach, you will build and test new offerings with clients, using initial client feedback to quickly achieve product-market fit. Critical for success is your ability to work both on the front lines with clients, guiding them as a trusted business partner through their business challenges, and internally at Toptal where you will work cross-functionally with teams such as Marketing, Legal, Finance, and Sales. Additionally, you will establish robust analytics and feedback loops to continuously iterate on your initial strategy, ensuring constant refinement and improvement.


This highly visible position demands a leader with exceptional communication skills, an entrepreneurial spirit, and an unwavering commitment to driving growth. If you are passionate about launching new ventures and transforming them into substantial revenue opportunities, we encourage you to join our team and be at the forefront of Toptal’s continued success.


In the first week, expect to:


·        Onboard and integrate into Toptal.

·        Learn Toptal’s business model, our value proposition, and our story.

·        Shadow critical teams throughout the organization to learn Toptal’s core operations and capabilities.


In the first month, expect to:


·        Understand our go-to-market model across SMB and Enterprise, and be able to articulate Toptal’s capabilities and differentiators.

·        Conduct market and industry research, identify opportunities, and form your hypothesis for business positioning.

·        Partner closely with Marketing to research and validate the market opportunity and ability to fulfill the demand.

·        Build your initial GTM strategy and offerings, iterating on the strategy through feedback from direct client calls and meetings.


In the first three months, expect to:


·        Partner with Senior Leadership, New Businesses, Marketing, and Talent Operations to develop a robust launch strategy.

·        Start executing your GTM strategy leveraging internal cross-functional support from Legal, Finance, and others.


In the first six months, expect to:


·        Assess the AI division’s progress against key milestones, refine AI roadmaps, and ensure alignment with business objectives. Identify opportunities for scaling AI initiatives and improving efficiency.

·        Ensure successful integration and scaling of AI solutions across the client organization, improving operational efficiency, product capabilities, and customer outcomes.


In the first year, expect to:


·        Have broadened Toptal’s reach into key industry and subsectors through AI tools & products.

·        Continue scaling the infrastructure required for execution, including the optimization of processes, and systems.

·        Be able to look back on consecutive quarters of growth, having achieved product-market fit and successfully realized your core business.


Qualifications and Job Requirements:


·        Bachelor’s degree is required. Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field preferred.

·        Minimum 10+ years combined business operations and consulting experience, with experience at a technology or hyper-growth company strongly preferred.

·        You must have a best-in-class, analytical, and data-driven background, ideally with a degree in a STEM field or something similar.

·        Strong knowledge of data management, AI governance, machine learning, and AI-driven analytics techniques and technologies, and Generative AI (e.g., large language models, fine-tuning, retrieval-augmented generation) is preferred.

·        In-depth knowledge of statistical methodologies, deep learning algorithms, and AI applications in real-world business contexts is preferred.

·        Proficiency in using AI and data science tools (e.g. Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, SQL, Tableau, etc.) is preferred.

·        Passion for AI innovation and ability to drive thought leadership in the field.

·        You must be able to demonstrate analytical ability to break down complex problems, and efficiently use data and analytics layered against high-quality user research to inform the direction of the product.

·        Leadership experience, including responsibility for business results in a fast-paced, multi-function environment.

·        Proven ability to lead collaboratively and operate in a high-growth environment.

·        Strong commercial acumen, informing all priorities and decisions with a keen understanding of market needs and business goals.

·        Demonstrated success in, or entrepreneurial experience that is commensurate to, building and launching a new business or product offering from scratch.

·        Strong command over a P&L and financial metrics.

·        Must have excellent written and oral communication skills. Good communication is at the core of everything we do, and you must be a strong communicator able to work with a wide range of stakeholders from senior executives to individual contributors.

·        Excellent organization skills and detail-oriented. You are hyper-organized, know how to work efficiently, and prioritize execution, as well as mentor others to do the same.

·        Ability to work in a fast-paced, rapidly growing company and handle a wide variety of challenges, deadlines, and a diverse array of contacts.

·        Adaptable. Comfortable managing changing priorities, learning new skills, and building consensus across varied senior stakeholder groups.

·        Ownership. You are a dependable leader who takes responsibility for your success as well as the success of the entire team.

·        Quality. You take pride in everything you deliver as a reflection of yourself.

·        You must be a world-class individual contributor to thrive at Toptal. You will not be here just to tell other people what to do.


Essential Job Functions


·        Regularly and reliably attend scheduled virtual team meetings on camera.

·        Work independently with minimal supervision.

·        Use all required digital collaboration tools.

·        Prioritize and self-manage workflows and deadlines.


US FLSA Classification: Full-Time/Exempt

 


Average salary estimate

$175000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$150000K
$200000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About General Manager, AI - US-Based, Toptal

Toptal is on the lookout for an extraordinary General Manager, AI to help shape the future of our innovative organization. This unique remote opportunity invites someone with an entrepreneurial spirit and a flair for strategic thinking to become the leading force behind our new, high-impact business line in the AI sector. As the General Manager, you will wear many hats! You'll begin by crafting market positioning and strategy to ensure product-market fit, ultimately driving Toptal's growth toward profitability. Your role is vital, as you'll be the accountable owner of the business P&L, closely collaborating with our Executive and Senior Leadership teams to align the business with Toptal's broader vision. Not only will you analyze industry opportunities, but you'll also build client offerings by leveraging feedback to refine them through agile methodologies. You’ll be the trusted partner to clients as you address their unique business challenges, while coordinating seamlessly with internal teams such as Marketing, Legal, and Finance. This position calls for someone with stellar communication skills, a robust analytical background, and a keen understanding of AI technologies. From onboarding and understanding Toptal’s business model to executing a comprehensive go-to-market strategy, your first year will be filled with exciting milestones that pave the way for Toptal's expansion into the AI space. If you have a passion for AI innovation and an unwavering commitment to driving growth, we’d love for you to join us at Toptal’s cutting-edge forefront.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for General Manager, AI - US-Based Role at Toptal
What are the main responsibilities of the General Manager, AI at Toptal?

The General Manager, AI at Toptal is responsible for driving strategy, establishing product-market fit, and ensuring continual growth for the AI division. This role involves overseeing the business P&L, collaborating with executive leadership, analyzing market opportunities, and crafting offerings based on client feedback. You’ll also engage with clients directly to understand their needs while cross-functionally working with teams like Marketing and Sales to ensure the business aligns with Toptal's objectives.

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What qualifications do I need to apply for the General Manager, AI position at Toptal?

To be a suitable candidate for the General Manager, AI position at Toptal, you should possess a Bachelor's degree, with a preference for a Master's in Engineering, Business, or related fields. A minimum of 10 years of business operations or consulting experience, especially in technology or hyper-growth companies, is required alongside a strong analytical background and expertise in AI-driven technologies. You must also demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to lead and collaborate in a fast-paced environment.

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How does Toptal support the AI initiatives led by the General Manager, AI?

Toptal fully supports its General Manager, AI by providing access to cross-functional resources and expertise across the organization. This includes collaboration with teams in Marketing, Legal, and Finance to develop effective strategies for market entry and client engagement. Additionally, Toptal encourages a culture of feedback and iterative strategies, ensuring that initiatives are refined based on client experiences and market demands.

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Is the General Manager, AI position at Toptal flexible regarding working hours?

Yes, the General Manager, AI position at Toptal is remote, providing flexibility in working hours. The role emphasizes self-management and independent work, which allows you to prioritize effectively and manage your deadlines while collaborating with global teams. This creates an environment that fosters both work-life balance and productivity.

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What can I expect in the initial months if I get hired as the General Manager, AI at Toptal?

Upon joining as the General Manager, AI at Toptal, expect to onboard and immerse yourself in Toptal's business model and value proposition. In the first month, you will conduct market research and identify opportunities, along with partnering with Marketing to develop a go-to-market strategy. By the end of your first three months, you should collaborate with senior leadership to establish a successful launch strategy for AI initiatives, ensuring alignment with broader business goals.

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Common Interview Questions for General Manager, AI - US-Based
How do you plan to establish product-market fit for AI offerings?

To establish product-market fit for AI offerings, I would adopt an agile approach to develop solutions based on initial client feedback. I believe in running pilot programs to gather insights, iterating on offerings, and continuously assessing market needs to ensure we address the specific challenges faced by our clients.

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What strategies would you use to drive growth in the AI division?

Driving growth in the AI division would include leveraging data analytics to understand market trends, refining our offerings based on client feedback, and aligning our strategies with Toptal's overall growth objectives. I'd prioritize building strong relationships with clients and ensuring our solutions cater directly to their evolving business needs.

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Can you describe your experience with AI technologies relevant to this role?

I have extensive experience working with various AI technologies, particularly in machine learning and data analytics. My background includes hands-on experience with tools like TensorFlow and PyTorch, thus, I can effectively guide teams through the intricacies of AI governance and implementation in real-world business contexts.

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How do you ensure that cross-functional collaboration is successful?

Successful cross-functional collaboration hinges on clear communication, setting common goals, and fostering a culture of trust among teams. I ensure this by aligning all stakeholders on project objectives, facilitating regular updates, and creating an environment where feedback is valued, which is essential for collective success.

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Describe a time when you successfully launched a new business or product.

In my previous role, I led the launch of a new SaaS product aimed at enhancing data-driven decision-making for businesses. We conducted extensive market research, iterated based on user feedback, and successfully captured a significant market share within our first year, resulting in a 40% growth boost for our revenue stream.

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How do you manage priorities in a fast-paced environment?

In a fast-paced environment, I prioritize tasks based on their potential impact and urgency. I use project management tools to keep track of deadlines and stakeholder inputs, ensuring that I’m both proactive and adaptable to changes. Regular check-ins with my team also help us stay aligned and responsive to shifting priorities.

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How would you develop an effective go-to-market strategy for AI products?

Developing an effective go-to-market strategy involves assessing market needs, establishing a clear value proposition, identifying target customer segments, and crafting an impactful marketing plan. I'd collaborate with Marketing and Sales to fine-tune our campaign strategies based on preliminary feedback obtained through direct client interactions.

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What role does data analytics play in your decision-making process?

Data analytics is at the heart of my decision-making process. I believe in using reliable data insights to guide strategy and offerings, ensuring we make informed choices that resonate with client needs and market dynamics. This analytical foundation helps minimize risks and maximize opportunities.

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How would you handle a challenging conversation with a client?

Handling challenging conversations with clients requires empathy, active listening, and clarity. I would approach the situation with a focus on understanding their perspective and finding solutions that address their concerns. Being transparent about challenges while also presenting actionable strategies to overcome them fosters trust and leads to better outcomes.

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What is your approach to team leadership in a multi-functional environment?

My approach to team leadership in a multi-functional environment centers on collaboration, respect, and empowerment. I work to create an inclusive atmosphere where team members feel valued and encouraged to contribute their diverse perspectives, ultimately driving collective creativity and success across the organization.

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Toptal, LLC provides freelance marketplace and online outsourcing services. The Company owns and operates online talent marketplace that connects businesses and organizations to software developers and designers. Toptal serves customers worldwide....

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