HR Technology AI Architect

Freshworks • San Mateo, CA

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The HR Technology AI Architect is a strategic leader responsible for driving transformative change across our HR function through AI-powered and emerging technology solutions. This role shapes and delivers our AI & Innovation solutioning agenda, oversees Transformation & Process Excellence programs, and continuously improves HR processes and systems to enable a future-ready workforce. With a focus on experimentation, scaling, and governance, this leader ensures our people, processes, and technology deliver an exceptional employee experience.
Reporting to the Director of HR Digital Transformation & AI Strategy, the Senior Manager - People AI Product Managementt will lead a team of Product Owners to design, pilot, and scale AI-enabled and automation solutions, optimize HR operations, and champion digital adoption and cultural change.
Please note: This is a hybrid role that will be based in San Mateo, CA and requires an in-office presence three days per week (Tuesday - Thursday).

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive experience working with Workday, including HRIS support and optimization.
• Proven success managing large-scale transformation, change, and technology implementation initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of HR principles, processes, and emerging HR technologies.
• Familiarity with AI/ML, automation, natural language processing (NLP), and chatbots in an HR context — including the ability to design, & configure AI agents or virtual assistants.
• Skilled in design thinking, solution architecture, and agile delivery.
• Exceptional communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field.

Nice To Haves

• Exposure to AI Agent or Intelligent Automation tools that combine RPA with NLP or decision engines to enable more dynamic, conversational workflows
• Workday implementation experience; modules such as Absence Management, Advanced Compensation, Benefits, Payroll, and Time Tracking preferred.
• Exposure to AI ethics, responsible AI practices and data privacy frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute HR transformation strategies with a focus on AI innovation and future workforce needs.
• Translate business challenges into AI and emerging technology solutions that are scalable and measurable.
• Define priorities for experimental pilots, proof-of-concepts, and enterprise-scale AI solutions.
• Direct the design, development, and integration of new HR technologies, including Workday enhancements, AI models, and automation tools.
• Ensure smooth adoption through effective system selection, configuration, testing, and user systems training.
• Identify and redesign processes to maximize efficiency, cost savings, and employee experience through AI and intelligent automation.
• Establish governance, standards, and best practices for AI solutioning and deployment.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with key stakeholders across HR, IT, Legal, and the business.
• Effectively communicate vision, progress, and impact of transformation efforts.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team of Product Owners.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.
• Provide oversight and direction for complex AI-driven and HR transformation initiatives, partnering closely with the PMO to ensure projects are effectively planned, tracked, and delivered on time and within budget.
• When needed, directly manage smaller-scale or cross-functional projects where dedicated PMO resources are not available, applying sound project management practices.
• Coordinate project priorities, resources, and dependencies to ensure successful execution of transformation and innovation efforts.

Benefits

• Freshworks offers multiple options for dental, medical, vision, disability and life insurances.
• Equity + ESPP, flexible PTO, flexible spending, commuter benefits and wellness benefits are also offered.
• Freshworks also offers adoption and parental leave benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level