AI & Automation Director (Anaheim)

Job Title: AI & Automation Director

Location: Anaheim CA

Employment Type: Full-Time Direct Hire with Benefits

Industry: Financial Services

Compensation: $250 - 280K

Schedule: Hybrid - 2 days in office (Tuesday/Wednesday), 3 days remote

Acar Solutions is seeking an AI & Automation Director to lead enterprise AI strategy and digital transformation initiatives for our client. This role will drive the adoption of AI and intelligent automation across the organization by identifying high-impact business opportunities, implementing commercial AI solutions, and establishing governance that ensures responsible, secure, and compliant use of AI technologies.

About the Opportunity

• Lead the organization's enterprise AI and automation strategy, aligning initiatives with business objectives and long-term growth.
• Identify, prioritize, and implement AI and automation solutions that improve employee productivity, operational efficiency, member/customer experience, and cost savings.
• Partner with business leaders to assess workflows, identify automation opportunities, and develop scalable AI-driven solutions.
• Evaluate, select, and implement commercial AI platforms and automation technologies, including tools such as Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT Enterprise, Power Platform, and other enterprise AI solutions.
• Establish AI governance, policies, and best practices to ensure responsible, ethical, secure, and compliant use of AI technologies.
• Develop and manage the enterprise AI roadmap, overseeing initiatives from pilot through enterprise-wide deployment.
• Measure and report on AI program success through adoption metrics, productivity improvements, cost savings, and business impact.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives in collaboration with IT, Operations, Compliance, Risk, Information Security, and Executive Leadership.
• Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing AI and automation team while promoting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Stay informed on emerging AI technologies, industry trends, and regulatory developments to recommend future AI investments.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree
• 2 years minimum experience leading enterprise AI, automation, digital transformation, or innovation initiatives.

What Sets You Apart

• Proven success implementing commercial AI and automation platforms rather than developing AI models from scratch.
• Strong knowledge of generative AI technologies, Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT Enterprise, workflow automation, and business process optimization.
• Experience establishing AI governance, risk management, and responsible AI practices.
• Demonstrated ability to translate business challenges into practical AI solutions with measurable ROI.
• Experience leading cross-functional programs and influencing senior leadership.
• Excellent communication, program management, and change management skills.
• Experience in financial services, banking, credit unions, or another highly regulated industry.
• Experience with Microsoft Power Platform, Power Automate, UiPath, Automation Anywhere, or similar automation technologies.
• Knowledge of data governance, cybersecurity, and information security best practices.
• Experience leading enterprise technology adoption and organizational change initiatives.

Applicants for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position does not meet the employment requirements for individuals with F‑1 OPT STEM work authorization status.

Aleron companies (Acara Solutions, Aleron Shared Resources, Broadleaf Results, Lume Strategies, TalentRise, Viaduct) are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Race/Color/Gender/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Veteran.