As the application and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) becomes more widespread, businesses are looking for approaches and mechanisms to successfully leverage AI’s full potential for service and product innovation as well as organizational transformation. However, many companies have difficulties establishing appropriate governance structures to support their AI initiatives and ambitions. In our study, we examine the emergence of the Chief AI Officer (CAIO), as a potential building block for an organization’s AI governance. We analyze 40 CAIOs of large firms. Based on information found in press statements, company websites, and articles we iteratively derive a taxonomy of the CAIO containing 10 dimensions and 37 characteristics. We present the first empirically grounded characterization of the CAIO role. Our systematic analysis and classification facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities and configurations of the CAIO, and further offer a foundation for further research on executive leadership.