Director - Artificial Intelligence

Human Resources Division - Office of Tennessee Secretary of State•Nashville, TN

About The Position

Director, Artificial Intelligence serves as a strategic and operational partner, reporting to the Secretary of State, and subject‑matter expert in identifying, evaluating, and implementing AI‑driven solutions that improve service delivery, operational efficiency, and decision‑making across the Department. This role bridges technical, analytical, and business functions—translating departmental needs into AI/automation opportunities while ensuring responsible, ethical, and compliant use of emerging technologies.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Data Analytics, Information Systems, Public Administration, or related field.
3–5 years of experience in business analysis, process improvement, data analytics, or technology implementation.
Understanding of core AI concepts (e.g., machine learning, natural language processing, automation, data governance).
Experience developing requirements, process maps, business cases, and documentation.
Effective communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts into plain language for non‑technical stakeholders.
Ability to work across multiple divisions, programs, and stakeholder groups in a complex public‑sector environment.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with AI tools and platforms (Microsoft AI, Copilot, Azure ML, Power Platform, or equivalent).
Knowledge of IT governance, data privacy laws, and Responsible AI principles.
Certifications such as CBAP, CCBA, ECBA, PMP, CAP, or Agile/Scrum.
Experience working in state or local government.

Responsibilities

Identify and assess opportunities for AI, automation, and data‑driven innovation within departmental programs, workflows, and public‑facing services.
Contribute to the development of departmental AI roadmaps, standards, and governance frameworks.
Conduct impact assessments to evaluate feasibility, value, risks, and dependencies of proposed AI initiatives.
Ensure AI solutions align with state policies, data privacy requirements, accessibility standards, and ethical‑use guidelines.
Engage with program staff, IT teams, and leadership to gather business requirements and translate them into functional and technical specifications.
Map current‑state processes and design improved future‑state workflows incorporating AI solutions.
Partner with developers and vendors to validate datasets, model assumptions, and solution architecture.
Support pilot projects, proof‑of‑concepts, and system testing for AI and automation tools (e.g., chatbots, predictive models, NLP solutions).
Prepare stakeholders for AI adoption through communication plans, training materials, and engagement.
Provide end‑user support and promote digital literacy related to AI capabilities and limitations.
Facilitate demonstrations for internal stakeholders and executive leadership.
Monitor AI solution performance, identify issues or bias, and recommend enhancements.
Track project progress, timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
Support audits, compliance reviews, and reporting related to AI systems.
Perform other relevant duties as assigned.