Job Purpose

The AI Innovation & Systems Architect is the organization’s strategic and operational leader responsible for modernizing Garman Builders’ business systems through intelligent automation, integrated software solutions, and thoughtfully applied AI. This role identifies where technology can reduce complexity, improve reporting, strengthen decision-making, and streamline operations—while honoring the craftsmanship, values, and human touch that define the Garman experience.

Serving as a bridge between operations, IT, and executive leadership, this role designs the system architecture that supports long-term scalability. They ensure that new technologies complement existing processes, preserve proven workflows, and elevate the performance of every department. AI is introduced intentionally at key decision points where it can provide guidance, analytics, or prediction, while automations improve throughput and accuracy across the broader workflow.

Reporting Relationship
Reports directly to the Vice President of Operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic AI Integration & Alignment

· Lead discovery, planning, and execution of AI-related pilots, from research and vendor sourcing through implementation and evaluation.

· Partner with department heads to assess pain points and map potential AI-powered solutions that integrate automation and workflows to improve efficiency, accuracy, and responsiveness.

· Build and maintain an AI roadmap aligned with company-wide strategic goals and growth priorities.

Systems Development & Process Optimization

· Design and implement intelligent automations for internal workflows.

· Oversee the development and implementation of an AI strategy to power a company-wide Garman-specific search engine that surfaces documents, updates, and knowledge from SharePoint, servers, and internal tools.

· Collaborate with IT and systems vendors to ensure future AI scalability and maintenance.

Training, Adoption & Change Management

· Lead internal education efforts to improve AI literacy across teams, including use of large language models, co-pilots/agents, and task-specific tools.

· Create and deliver onboarding for new AI tools, including SOPs, security protocols, and best practices.

· Support departments in building internal champions and sustainable AI usage habits.

· Monitor adoption rates and adjust rollout approaches to maximize value and minimize disruption.

Risk Management, Data Ethics & Security

· Evaluate and vet third-party AI tools for compliance with Garman’s data security, privacy, and ethical standards.

· Partner with leadership to establish responsible guidelines and monitor for risks such as bias, automation overreach, or data leakage.

· Maintain documentation of systems, decisions, and protocols to ensure transparency and traceability.

Innovation Scouting & Market Positioning

· Stay current with emerging technologies and trends in AI, machine learning, and process automation as they relate to construction, customer experience, and supply chain.

· Make proactive recommendations on new tools or capabilities that help Garman leapfrog inefficiencies or gain a market advantage, including identifying and phasing out outdated systems or workflows.

· Evaluate the competitive landscape to ensure Garman’s AI posture is ahead of industry standards and contributes to its brand as the builder of choice.

Accountability

· Deliver successful AI pilots and implementations that align with strategic goals.

· Ensure AI tools and automations adhere to Garman’s data security, privacy, and ethical standards.

· Support sustainable adoption of AI tools through training and change management.

· Maintain clear documentation to ensure transparency and ongoing governance.

· Contribute to keeping Garman competitive through informed recommendations and industry awareness.

Expectations

· Deliver a 12-18 month AI roadmap that is aligned with our company priorities. 

· Approach AI implementation with a focus on efficiency, accuracy, and operational improvement.

· Communicate effectively across teams and support users through training and onboarding.

· Stay informed about emerging AI and automation technologies relevant to Garman’s operations.

· Uphold Garman’s craftsmanship, core values, and human-centered approach in all implementations.

Authority

· Lead AI-related pilots and implementations from discovery through evaluation.

· Recommend AI-powered solutions and workflow automations across departments.

· Evaluate and vet third-party AI tools for compliance with company standards.

· Develop and implement onboarding materials, SOPs, and training related to AI tools.

· Collaborate with IT and vendors to guide system scalability and integration decisions.

Relationships:

Internal

· Department heads and operational teams for identifying needs and implementing solutions.

· IT department and system vendors for technical alignment, integration, and scalability.

· Leadership team regarding risk management and AI strategy.

· All teams receiving AI literacy support and training.

External

· Third-party AI vendors and tool providers.

· Industry sources and partners to maintain awareness of trends and competitive positioning.

Qualifications & Requirements

· 5+ years of experience in an IT or Operations role.

· Proven experience managing digital transformation or tool implementation projects.

· Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.

· Excellent communication and project management skills.