AI Program Manager

We are seeking an experienced AI Program Manager who is local in Sacramento, CA, for this is a hybrid role. This role provides direct oversight of AI pilots, program execution, and operational integration. The position ensures enterprise alignment of AI initiatives, manages financial sustainability, and measures value realization to demonstrate impact. Acting as the execution engine for AI adoption, this position collaborates across business units, IT, and executive leadership to operationalize responsible and scalable AI practices. Specific ResponsibilitiesExpansion of AI POCs and Pilots Oversee the structured growth of AI pilots and proof-of-concepts (POCs). Evaluate readiness for scale, manage stakeholder engagement, and ensure responsible, repeatable adoption of AI across programs and districts. Apply lessons learned from pilots to drive enterprise-wide capability building and continuous improvement. Manage AI Costs and Financial Forecasting Track and forecast AI-related costs including infrastructure, licensing, and workforce planning. Support proactive financial management and ensure investments align with strategic and operational priorities. Report on budget utilization and long-term financial sustainability of AI programs. AI Model Monitoring Implement and manage monitoring processes for AI model performance, accuracy, and drift detection. Ensure ongoing model reliability, fairness, and compliance with state and agency standards. Support model lifecycle governance, updates, and retirement as needed. Performance and Value Realization Management Establish and maintain frameworks (KPIs, OKRs) to measure business and operational impact of AI solutions. Track realized benefits, cost savings, and service improvements. Provide performance reports and dashboards to communicate outcomes and value to leadership and stakeholders. Transparency and Disclosure Management Oversee compliance with AB 2013 transparency requirements for dataset and AI model disclosures. Maintain documentation and publication processes to foster accountability and public trust. Partner with communications and compliance teams to ensure consistent, accurate reporting. Cross-Functional Program Support Contribute to Executive Communications Support (Role 3) for AI program updates and reporting. Prepare briefing materials, dashboards, and presentations for executive and legislative stakeholders. Support coordination across agencies, vendors, and technical partners to ensure unified AI governance. Mandatory Qualifications 5+ years of program or project management experience in technology, data, or AI-driven initiatives. Demonstrated experience managing cross-functional programs with measurable business outcomes. Proven analytical, budgeting, and forecasting skills. Strong stakeholder communication, documentation, and reporting skills. Excellent organizational and time management capabilities. Desired Qualifications Experience with AI governance, MLOps, or model lifecycle management. Understanding of state or public-sector technology operations. Experience managing vendor contracts and enterprise pilots. Familiarity with responsible AI frameworks, data ethics, and disclosure requirements. PMP, PgMP, or equivalent project management certification preferred. Education, Certification, Training & Experience Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Computer Science, Public Policy, or related field (Master's preferred). Certification in AI program management, data governance, or project management desirable.