AI Transformation Manager Operations (m/f/d)

We are seeking an AI Transformation Manager Operations to drive value-stream-based AI transformation across Automotive Operations. This role translates the Operations AI strategy into executable initiatives that redesign end-to-end processes, strengthen data foundations, and embed AI into operational decision-making.

The role combines strategic, functional, transformational and technical capabilities, with focus on priority value streams such as E2E Costing, Risk Management or Supply Chain Visibility & Resilienc.

Your Team

This role reports to the AI Strategy Lead Operations within the Operations Excellence Digitalization organization.

You will collaborate with Operations Excellence leadership, BI & Dataworks, IT, Digitalization, Data Architecture and key functional stakeholders across Procurement, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Finance, Engineering and SBUs.

What You Will Do

• Lead AI Value Stream Transformation
• Lead selected AI transformation value streams from opportunity framing through process redesign, data scoping, solution concept, implementation support and adoption.
• Drive holistic redesign across process, people, data, digitalization and AI, ensuring AI is embedded into the future-state operating model.
• Translate strategic focus areas such as E2E Costing, Risk Management, Supply Chain Visibility, Manufacturing GPT and Operations 360 into actionable transformation charters and roadmaps.
• Define measurable value targets, including cost impact, efficiency gains, lead-time reduction, resilience improvement, risk reduction and decision-speed improvement.
• Redesign Operations Processes with AI Embedded
• Redesign end-to-end operational processes with AI embedded by design, rather than added as a standalone automation layer.
• Identify AI opportunities across workflows, decision logic, dashboards, copilots, agents, recommendation engines and human-in-the-loop controls.
• Translate business challenges into AI-enabled process concepts, user stories, capability requirements and scalable solution needs.
• Partner with process owners and functional experts to clarify roles, decision rights, KPIs, governance points and adoption requirements.
• Translate Business Needs into Data and AI Requirements
• Define business data requirements for AI use cases, including source systems, data objects, ownership, quality needs, business logic, semantic definitions and governance requirements.
• Partner with BI & Dataworks, IT and architecture teams to translate business needs into data product requirements, AI-ready datasets and scalable digital solution concepts.
• Identify data quality, availability, ownership and governance gaps that limit AI scalability and ensure these are addressed in the transformation roadmap.
• Act as the bridge between business SMEs and technical teams, ensuring operational meaning is preserved in data models, AI logic, system requirements and implementation plans.
• Drive Adoption, Scaling and Value Realization
• Coordinate cross-functional delivery teams, including business SMEs, data engineers, AI engineers, solution architects, IT project managers, digitalization teams, and external partners.
• Build stakeholder buy-in by clearly communicating the business case, process impact, role impact, and required behavioral changes.
• Develop enablement materials, playbooks, communication packages, and adoption support for affected teams.
• Track value realization after deployment and ensure AI-enabled solutions are embedded into operational routines and management processes.

What You Need To Be Successful

• Education: Master’s in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or related field.
• Experience:
• 5+ years of experience in AI, data analytics, or digital transformation, preferably in automotive or manufacturing.
• Proven track record of leading AI strategy and implementation in complex operational environments.
• Strong understanding of AI technologies (ML, NLP, CV), data architecture, and cloud platforms.
• Experience with agile methodologies and product management is a plus.
• Skills:
• Strong project management skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
• Analytical mindset with problem-solving skills
• We see AI as an important part of how work gets done. While tools may vary, a baseline familiarity with using AI to support efficiency, problem-solving, and quality is expected.
  

• Be willing to travel up to 25% domestic and international

• A hybrid work environment that balances flexibility with in-person collaboration, with most office-based roles onsite three days a week.
• Access to employee discounts on HARMAN and Samsung products (including JBL, Harman / Kardon, AKG, and others)
• Learning and development opportunities through our award-winning HARMAN University programs
• Wellness benefits designed to support your overall well-being
• Tuition reimbursement support
• Access to the HARMAN campus fitness center and cafeteria, where available
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that supports both your professional and personal development

HARMAN is committed to making every employee feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. No matter what role you play, we encourage you to share your ideas, voice your distinct perspective, and bring your whole self with you – all within a support-minded culture that celebrates what makes each of us unique. We also recognize that learning is a lifelong pursuit and want you to flourish. We proudly offer added opportunities for training, development, and continuing education, further empowering you to live the career you want.

About HARMAN: Where Innovation Unleashes Next-Level Technology

Ever since the 1920s, we’ve been amplifying the sense of sound. Today, that legacy endures, with integrated technology platforms that make the world smarter, safer, and more connected.

Across automotive, lifestyle, and digital transformation solutions, we create innovative technologies that turn ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Our renowned automotive and lifestyle solutions can be found everywhere, from the music we play in our cars and homes to venues that feature today’s most sought-after performers, while our digital transformation solutions serve humanity by addressing the world’s ever-evolving needs and demands. Marketing our award-winning portfolio under 16 iconic brands, such as JBL, Mark Levinson, and Revel, we set ourselves apart by exceeding the highest engineering and design standards for our customers, our partners and each other.

If you’re ready to innovate and do work that makes a lasting impact, join our talent community today!

Important Notice: Recruitment Scams

Please be aware that HARMAN recruiters will always communicate with you from an '@harman.com', ‘@careers.harman.com’ or ‘harmanglobal.avature.net’ email address. We will never ask for payments, banking, credit card, personal financial information or access to your LinkedIn/email account during the screening, interview, or recruitment process. If you are asked for such information or receive communication from an email address not ending in one of the above email domains about a job with HARMAN, please cease communication immediately and report the incident to us through: [email protected].

HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. HARMAN strives to hire the best qualified candidates and is committed to building a workforce representative of the diverse marketplaces and communities of our global colleagues and customers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. HARMAN attracts, hires, and develops employees based on merit, qualifications and job-related performance.(www.harman.com)