Head of AI & Data Science (a)

Imagine leveraging your expertise in AI and data science to directly improve the lives of millions of people living with hypertension. Hilo by Aktiia, is revolutionizing how cardiovascular health is monitored and managed. They’ve developed and commercialized the world’s first continuous blood pressure monitor, empowering both patients and physicians with unprecedented insights into blood pressure patterns. Backed by over $100M in funding from top-tier investors across Europe and the US, Hilo is an early-stage, fast-growing startup rooted in over 20 years of research at the prestigious Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology (CSEM). Their CE-certified, Class IIa medical device is already available in over 10 countries worldwide—and they’re just getting started.

As Aktiia enters a new growth phase, we’re looking for a capable and visionary “Head of AI & Data Science” to scale their capabilities and lead a team that sits at the heart of the product innovation.

As Head of AI & Data Science, you will be responsible for leading a cross-functional team of 12 experts (including 4 direct reports). You’ll report directly to the CTO and play a key role in aligning AI-driven development with product and business goals. We’re looking for a pragmatic leader with deep technical roots and a passion for making a real-world impact through AI and health technology!

Your role

• Team & Project Leadership
  Own planning, prioritization, and execution of AI & Data Science initiatives. Align roadmaps with product requirements and drive timely delivery with your team.
• Cross-functional Collaboration
  Act as the operational bridge between AI, Product, Marketing, Customer Support teams and the CTO. Solve blockers and ensure smooth collaboration.
• People Development
  Lead and grow a diverse team through coaching, recruitment, performance reviews, and day-to-day guidance – with a balance of empathy and results-orientation.
• External Engagement
  Interface with medical professionals, customers, and strategic partners. Incorporate feedback and deliver concepts, documentation, and visual materials.
• Process Optimization
  Define and implement workflows and structures that support scalable, efficient team operations.

Your profile

• Academic Background
  PhD in Informatics, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Data Science, Signal Processing or a related field.
• Technical Expertise
  5+ years of hands-on engineering experience in data science and ML/AI. Strong Python skills and familiarity with ML frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, Scikit-learn). Solid understanding of CNNs, RNNs and time series analysis. Medtech and signal processing knowledge (PPG, ECG) are a plus.
• Leadership Experience
  Several years experience of people management, ideally
  with responsibility for 10+ team members. Experience in fast-paced environments and team transformation
• Industry Fit
  Background in regulated industries (e.g. medtech, pharma, fintech, aerospace). Experience in startups or mid-sized companies preferred.
• Language Skills
  English at highly proficient level is a must. French, German or Italian are advantageous.
• Personality
  Energetic, intellectually curious, hands-on and collaborative. A natural team leader who inspires others and leads with clarity and positivity.

Do you want to build something that changes lives while advancing science and technology? Then we’re excited to meet you!