AI Innovation Lead at Tecovas

Austin, Texas, United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Retail, E-commerce, Fashion, Supply ChainIndustries

Requirements

Experience leading significant AI/automation projects that have been successfully implemented and adopted
Background in dynamic, consumer-centric industries (retail experience not required) with demonstrated ability to rapidly master new domains
Strong commercial acumen with ability to tie technical solutions directly to ROI and strategic growth
Solid understanding of AI/ML concepts (Generative AI, NLP, computer vision, predictive analytics) and hands-on familiarity with platforms such as Google Cloud (GCP), OpenAI, and Anthropic
Comfort with prototyping, low-code/no-code platforms, and/or basic scripting to quickly demonstrate concepts and test ideas
Familiarity with data governance, privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA), and risk management best practices in the context of AI adoption
Exceptional communication skills — able to distill technical complexity into clear business terms for diverse audiences
Self-starter who thrives in ambiguity and can drive initiatives from concept through to adoption and measurable impact
Demonstrated ability to influence stakeholders at all levels and build buy-in across diverse teams
Based in Austin, TX or willing to relocate to Austin, TX

Responsibilities

Partner with teams across all business functions (Merchandising, Retail, E-commerce, Supply Chain, Customer Experience, Marketing, Finance, and Operations) to understand workflows, identify inefficiencies, and surface high-value AI opportunities
Translate findings into clear business cases with quantified ROI and efficiency gains
Collaborate with department heads and leadership to prioritize initiatives aligned with Tecovas’ strategic goals
Listen and learn from stakeholders across the organization, ensuring AI opportunities are grounded in real-world needs and developed in true partnership with cross-functional teams
Architect practical AI solutions using Generative AI, NLP, computer vision, and related techniques
Rapidly prototype concepts (via prompt engineering, low-code/no-code tools, or basic scripting) to validate impact
Serve as a technical liaison, partnering with internal engineering, data, and external vendors to scale solutions that meet business needs
Lead pilots and implementations, guiding teams through process changes and tool adoption
Act as an AI evangelist — create training, host workshops, and build an AI-first mindset across the org
Define KPIs, track outcomes, and optimize solutions with continuous feedback loops
Partner with Legal, Security, and Compliance teams to ensure AI initiatives align with data privacy policies, ethical standards, and responsible use guidelines
Establish frameworks for AI governance, ensuring controlled rollout of tools, clear approval processes, and risk mitigation strategies across departments

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Generative AINLPComputer VisionPrompt EngineeringPrototypingLow-Code ToolsROI AnalysisChange Management

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this role remote or does it require being in a specific location?

This role is required to be based in Austin, TX, and candidates must either be currently located there or willing to relocate.

What salary or compensation does this position offer?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What key experiences or skills are required for the AI Innovation Lead role?

The role requires experience leading significant AI/automation projects that have been successfully implemented and adopted, a background in dynamic consumer-centric industries is valued, and the ability to rapidly master new domains.

What kind of collaboration is expected in this role?

You'll partner with teams across all business functions including Merchandising, Retail, E-commerce, Supply Chain, Customer Experience, Marketing, Finance, and Operations, while reporting directly to the CTO and collaborating with department heads, leadership, internal engineering, data teams, and external vendors.

What makes a strong candidate for this AI Innovation Lead position?

A strong candidate has a track record of leading significant AI/automation projects to successful implementation and adoption, experience in dynamic consumer-centric industries, and the ability to rapidly master new domains while translating business needs into AI solutions with quantified ROI.

Tecovas

Sells high-quality cowboy boots and apparel

About Tecovas

Tecovas specializes in high-quality cowboy boots, apparel, accessories, and leather goods, catering to customers who appreciate premium western wear. The company operates on a direct-to-consumer model, which allows it to sell products without intermediaries, making its offerings more affordable. Tecovas generates revenue through online sales and physical retail locations, providing a smooth shopping experience. Unlike many competitors, Tecovas emphasizes maintaining product quality while ensuring that prices remain approachable. The company's goal is to deliver exceptional western wear that meets the needs of a diverse clientele, contributing to its rapid growth and strong presence in the market.

Austin, TexasHeadquarters

2015Year Founded

$102.5MTotal Funding

SERIES_CCompany Stage

Consumer GoodsIndustries

501-1,000Employees

Benefits

We offer insurance plans that pay 99% of your health premium coverage and 100% of your dental & vision insurance coverage for your family/dependents

Paid Parental Leave

Flexible PTO policy

Corporate wellness program

Competitive salary

Generous employee discounts!

Risks

Increased competition from brands like Ariat and Justin Boots.

Rising leather prices could impact Tecovas' production costs.

Potential backlash from animal rights groups against leather products.

Differentiation

Tecovas offers handmade boots, emphasizing craftsmanship and quality.

The company eliminates intermediaries, providing high-quality products at accessible prices.

Tecovas partners with a third-generation boot maker for custom-developed leather shoes.

Upsides

Increased consumer interest in sustainable products aligns with Tecovas' craftsmanship focus.

'Buy now, pay later' services make Tecovas' products more accessible.

Western fashion's growing popularity expands Tecovas' market reach.

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