AI & Automation Manager
Charlotte
Thursday, 21 May 2026
The AI & Automation Manager will serve as the strategic right hand to the AI & Automation Leader for City National Bank, driving enterprise-wide adoption of artificial intelligence and intelligent automation solutions. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with executive-level strategic thinking, threading the needle between cutting-edge AI possibilities and practical implementation in a regulated financial services environment. The ideal candidate is personally experimenting with the latest AI technologies, deeply engaged with industry-leading research, and excited to demonstrate how AI-native approaches can drive efficiency and transformation across a conservative institution. WHAT WILL YOU DO? Direct leadership and execution of high-impact AI and automation initiatives across the organization, with accountability for delivering measurable business outcomes. Stay at the forefront of AI advancements through personal experimentation with latest technologies, research, and frameworks—including agentic architectures, Anthropic Co-worker solutions, and emerging industry-leading approaches. Develop and execute strategic plans for Gen. AI, machine learning, and intelligent automation adoption across the enterpriseSupport development and maturation of enterprise AI ideation intake, inventory, prioritization, and governance capabilities; engage with governance stakeholders and use case owners. Coordinate and drive AI-powered solutions that enhance customer engagement, improve colleague productivity, support operational efficiency, and increase revenue. Collaborate with IT and business functions to ensure seamless integration of AI solutions with existing systems and processes. Oversee budgets, resource allocation plans, and vendor partnerships for AI and automation initiatives. Engage key business and executive stakeholders; communicate AI strategy, impact, and possibilities to ELT, Board, and C-Suite with compelling storytelling and clarity. Conduct regulatory due diligence and ensure solutions comply with SR 11-7, EU Fair AI Act, and other relevant frameworks. Challenge status quo and drive organizational change management for AI adoption; ask tough questions and push thinking forward. Mentor and guide team members on AI strategy, best practices, and emerging opportunities. Balance strategic vision with attention to operational detail, recognizing that quality execution at every level drives enterprise impact WHAT DO YOU NEED TO SUCCEED? Required Qualifications - Bachelor's Degree or equivalent. Minimum 7 years of experience leading technology-enabled business transformation and AI/automation initiatives. Minimum 4 years of direct leadership experience managing cross-functional teams and major programs Additional Qualifications. Proven track record leading or participating in large-scale AI, machine learning, or analytics implementations in enterprise environments. Demonstrated ability to present AI strategy and outcomes to executive leadership and boards. Regulatory compliance experience in financial services (SR 11-7, Fair AI frameworks, etc.)Advanced technical fluency in AI/ ML concepts with genuine passion for understanding and experimenting with emerging technologies. Strong C-Suite and Board communication and presentation skills; ability to tell compelling stories about AI impact and possibilities. Strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution capability; comfort with detail and big-picture thinking. Deep knowledge of industry-leading AI research, agentic architectures, and emerging AI frameworks (including Anthropic Co-worker solutions)Experience with data products and product management frameworks. Comfortable operating in startup mentality within enterprise environment; energized by rapid innovation and change. Ability to translate technical AI capabilities into business value for financial services problems. Exceptional leadership, delegation, and change management skills. Willingness to challenge conventional thinking and drive organizational transformation. Snowflake experience preferred. MBA or equivalent professional experience preferred 5 years in Financial Services preferred. WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU? Compensation.