Manager, Automation and AI Enablement

Position SummaryWe are looking for a technically curious, analytically grounded professional to join our team as a key partner in executing our enterprise AI strategy. This individual will bring a solid understanding of AI and data concepts to help the organization evaluate, govern, and scale AI solutions responsibly. They will play a critical role in converting technical knowledge into enterprise-wide education and stakeholder messaging. The role will also help identify and advance automation opportunities across the enterprise, supporting the use of AI and workflow automation to improve efficiency, consistency, and business outcomes. This is a manager-level individual contributor role and does not currently include direct people management responsibilities.The role spans both Applied AI and Workflow Automation. Applied AI includes practical use cases across individual productivity tools such as Claude and Copilot, enterprise AI platforms such as Azure AI Foundry, and AI platforms such as Databricks. Workflow Automation includes process improvement and automation capabilities delivered through tools such as Microsoft Power Automate and Workato. Across both areas, the focus is on helping the business evaluate, govern, adopt, and scale capabilities that improve productivity, consistency, and business outcomes.What will your job entail?Key ResponsibilitiesPartner with business and technical teams to evaluate applied AI solutions and vendors, applying a working knowledge of how AI systems function to assess fit, risk, responsible AI considerations, business case strength, and governance requirementsSupport business case development and prioritization for opportunities, helping assess expected value, feasibility, risk, and readiness to move forwardSupport literacy initiatives across the enterprise, designing programs, resources, feedback loops, and adoption metrics that assess awareness, engagement, proficiency, and business impactSupport the development and execution of the enterprise strategy and roadmap, tracking initiatives, milestones, adoption, feedback, and outcomesSupport AI governance efforts, including policy development, responsible AI practices, risk frameworks, privacy, security, and compliance alignmentDevelop enterprise communications and messaging that translate complex technical concepts into accessible, compelling narratives for business stakeholders and executive leadershipMonitor trends and emerging developments in AI and automation in the insurance industry, proactively surfacing insights and recommendations to inform strategyRequired Qualifications5+ years of experience in a role involving applied AI, workflow automation, technology strategy, or a related fieldKnowledge of AI and machine learning concepts, including how models are built, trained, evaluated, governed, and aligned with responsible AI practicesStrong analytical mindset with the ability to assess AI solutions critically and ask the right questions of both vendors and internal technical, privacy, security, and compliance teamsUnderstanding of workflow automation concepts, including process improvement, workflow design, and the use of automation to reduce manual effort and improve consistencyDemonstrated curiosity about AI and workflow automation, with a track record of experimenting with and adapting to new tools and techniques as the technology evolvesStrong organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple concurrent workstreams without losing sight of priorities or detailsAbility to communicate complex technical topics clearly to non-technical audiences, including executive leadership, in both written and verbal formatsHYBRID ONSITE (Chicago office) *******Preferred QualificationsBackground in the insurance industry, with familiarity with its regulatory environment, operations, and key business functionsHands-on experience working with AI tools or platforms, participating in solution evaluation processes, or supporting business case development for new capabilitiesExperience supporting workflow automation, process improvement, or digital transformation initiatives within an enterprise environmentFamiliarity with the Microsoft Azure ecosystem, including Azure AI services, and experience with Databricks or similar AI and data platformsFamiliarity with Microsoft Power Automate, Workato, or other workflow automation platformsExposure to enterprise data strategy, data quality, or analytics programs that support scalable AI and workflow automation adoptionExperience supporting or working within a Center of Excellence or enterprise transformation program focused on AI, workflow automation, or related technology enablementWhat Makes You Stand OutYou understand how applying AI and workflow automation can create practical business value, and you use that knowledge to ask better questions, make sharper assessments, and push for more responsible outcomes. You can sit with a technical team and understand what they are building, then walk into a C-suite level discussion and explain why it matters. You bring structure to a fast-moving environment and are genuinely excited about what comes next in AI and automation.*****Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time*****Ryan Specialty is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building and sustaining a diverse workforce throughout the organization. Our vision is an inclusive and equitable workplace where all employees are valued for and evaluated on their performance and contributions. Differences in race, creed, color, religious beliefs, physical or mental capabilities, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, and many other characteristics bring together varied perspectives and add value to the service we provide our clients, trading partners, and communities. This policy extends to all aspects of our employment practices, including but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, discipline, firing, promoting, transferring, compensation, benefits, training, leaves of absence, and other terms, conditions, and benefits of employment.How We Support Our Teammates Ryan Specialty seeks to offer our employees a comprehensive and best-in-class benefits package that helps them — and their family members — achieve their physical, financial, and emotional well-being goals. In addition to paid time off for company holidays, vacation, sick and personal days, Ryan offers paid parental leave, mental health services and more.The target salary range for this position is $153,600.00 - $192,000.00 annually.The wage range for this role considers many factors, such as training, transferable skills, work experience, licensure and certification, business needs, and market demands. The pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. Full-time roles are eligible for bonuses and benefits. For additional information on Ryan Specialty Total Rewards, visit our website We provide individuals with disabilities reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment in accordance with applicable law. Please contact us to request an accommodation at View email address on click.appcast.io The above is intended to describe this job's general requirements. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. SummaryLocation: Chicago - Illinois - WackerType: Full time