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Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA | Apply Today!

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Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA | Apply Today!

full-timePosted: Dec 16, 2025

Job Description

Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA

Role Overview

As the Head of Strategic Projects for Handshake AI, you will be at the forefront of shaping the future of career development in the AI economy. This pivotal role places you in charge of an AI delivery pod, functioning as a mini-business within Handshake AI. You will lead a multi-layered team, taking ownership of throughput, quality, and financial performance across high-priority initiatives and customer engagements. This position demands a highly operational mindset and involves close collaboration with Operations, Product, Growth, and Research teams to translate data strategies into actionable plans, systems, and teams. Your leadership will be instrumental in scaling Handshake AI.

Day in the Life

A typical day involves leading Weekly Business Reviews to assess pod performance, setting priorities for Strategic Project Leads (SPLs) and managers, and solving critical project challenges. You'll be deeply involved in resource allocation, workflow optimization, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality AI training and evaluation datasets. Expect to spend time collaborating with Product, Growth, and Research teams, translating evolving data strategies into executable projects. Additionally, coaching team members, fostering a collaborative culture, and driving process improvements will be key aspects of your daily activities.

Why San Francisco, CA?

San Francisco is a global hub for technology and innovation, making it the ideal location for Handshake AI. The city offers access to a wealth of talent, resources, and networking opportunities. Being situated in San Francisco allows you to collaborate with leading AI labs, Fortune 500 companies, and top educational institutions. The city's vibrant ecosystem fosters a culture of innovation and provides a unique environment for professional growth and development.

Career Path

This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within Handshake AI and the broader Handshake organization. You can progress to higher-level leadership positions, such as Vice President or Senior Vice President, overseeing larger teams and strategic initiatives. The experience gained in this role can also lead to opportunities in related fields, such as product management, business development, or general management. Handshake is committed to providing ongoing training and development to support your career growth.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience. In addition to a base salary, Handshake AI offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, stock options, commuter benefits, wellness programs, and employee assistance programs. We also provide generous vacation and paid time off, flexible work arrangements, and company-sponsored events and activities.

Mission

Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and empower the next generation of talent. As Head of Strategic Projects, you will play a critical role in advancing this mission by ensuring the delivery of high-quality AI solutions that enable students and professionals to connect with meaningful career opportunities. You will contribute to building a more equitable and inclusive workforce by providing access to the tools and resources needed to succeed in the AI economy.

How to Apply

To apply for the Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI position, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal. In your cover letter, highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, and explain why you are interested in joining Handshake AI. We encourage you to showcase your leadership abilities, project management expertise, and passion for driving innovation in the AI space.

FAQ

  1. What is Handshake AI? Handshake AI is a division of Handshake focused on leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance career discovery, hiring, and upskilling for knowledge workers.
  2. What does the AI delivery pod do? The AI delivery pod is responsible for the execution and delivery of AI-related projects, including data training, evaluation, and model deployment.
  3. What is the size of the team I will be leading? You will lead a team of 8 or more team members, including managers and individual contributors.
  4. What are the key metrics for success in this role? Key metrics include on-time delivery, quality, throughput, utilization, and margin.
  5. What cross-functional teams will I be working with? You will collaborate with Product, Growth, Research, and Engagement teams.
  6. What kind of projects will I be overseeing? You will be overseeing complex, high-stakes data and evaluation projects.
  7. What opportunities for professional development are available? Handshake offers various professional development opportunities, including training programs, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities.
  8. What is the company culture like at Handshake? Handshake fosters a collaborative, transparent, and high-performing culture built on a commitment to operational excellence.
  9. What is the interview process like? The interview process typically involves multiple rounds of interviews with members of the Handshake AI team, including the hiring manager, peers, and leadership.
  10. What is the company's approach to work-life balance? Handshake is committed to providing a supportive work environment that promotes work-life balance. We offer flexible work arrangements and generous paid time off.

Locations

  • San Francisco, CA, USA

Salary

Estimated Salary Rangehigh confidence

180,000 - 300,000 USD / yearly

Source: ai estimated

* This is an estimated range based on market data and may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required

  • Strategic Planningintermediate
  • Project Managementintermediate
  • Team Leadershipintermediate
  • AI Deliveryintermediate
  • Data Analysisintermediate
  • Operational Excellenceintermediate
  • Cross-functional Collaborationintermediate
  • Business Developmentintermediate
  • P&L Managementintermediate
  • Stakeholder Managementintermediate
  • Coachingintermediate
  • Mentoringintermediate
  • Performance Managementintermediate
  • Process Improvementintermediate
  • Data Strategyintermediate

Required Qualifications

  • 10+ years of experience in strategic project management or a similar role. (experience)
  • 5+ years of experience leading and managing high-performing teams. (experience)
  • Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget. (experience)
  • Deep understanding of AI and machine learning concepts. (experience)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. (experience)
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. (experience)
  • Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. (experience)
  • Ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional teams. (experience)
  • Experience with data analysis and reporting. (experience)
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field; Master's degree preferred. (experience)
  • Demonstrated experience in improving operational metrics. (experience)
  • Strong understanding of business outcomes and P&L management. (experience)
  • Experience in building and fostering high-performing cultures. (experience)

Responsibilities

  • Own and lead an AI delivery pod of 8 or more team members (managers and individual contributors).
  • Run Weekly Business Reviews that track pod performance, drive alignment on metrics, and set clear priorities for SPLs and managers.
  • Operate as the GM of your pod, responsible for business outcomes, throughput, quality, and the operational P and L for your portfolio.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Product, Growth, and Research to translate evolving data strategies into executable project scopes, systems, and resourcing plans.
  • Ensure high-quality delivery of AI training and evaluation datasets, including scoping, workflow design, and system-level guardrails for quality and scalability.
  • Drive systems-level improvements that increase efficiency, quality, and capacity, and that can be adopted across other pods and teams.
  • Develop leaders and ICs on your team through coaching, clear expectations, developmental feedback, and growth opportunities.
  • Foster a high-performing culture built on close collaboration, transparency, and a commitment to operational excellence that raises standards across Handshake AI.
  • Manage the pod's budget and resources effectively.
  • Identify and mitigate risks associated with project delivery.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders.
  • Continuously improve the pod's processes and workflows.

Benefits

  • general: Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • general: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI technology.
  • general: Chance to make a significant impact on the future of career development.
  • general: Collaborative and supportive work environment.
  • general: Professional development opportunities.
  • general: Generous vacation and paid time off.
  • general: Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • general: 401(k) plan with company match.
  • general: Stock options.
  • general: Commuter benefits.
  • general: Wellness programs.
  • general: Employee assistance program.
  • general: Flexible work arrangements.
  • general: Company-sponsored events and activities.
  • general: Opportunity to work with a diverse and talented team.

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Tags & Categories

AIStrategic ProjectsManagementSan FranciscoFull-timeAI DeliveryTeam LeadershipProject ManagementHandshake AIData StrategyBusiness DevelopmentOperational ExcellenceAI TrainingAI EvaluationMachine LearningCareer DevelopmentTechnologyInnovationData AnalysisP&L ManagementCross-functional CollaborationCoachingMentoringPerformance ManagementProcess ImprovementAI EconomyTech JobsCalifornia JobsEdTechCareer PlatformEngineeringProduct

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Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA | Apply Today!

Handshake

Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA | Apply Today!

full-timePosted: Dec 16, 2025

Job Description

Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA

Role Overview

As the Head of Strategic Projects for Handshake AI, you will be at the forefront of shaping the future of career development in the AI economy. This pivotal role places you in charge of an AI delivery pod, functioning as a mini-business within Handshake AI. You will lead a multi-layered team, taking ownership of throughput, quality, and financial performance across high-priority initiatives and customer engagements. This position demands a highly operational mindset and involves close collaboration with Operations, Product, Growth, and Research teams to translate data strategies into actionable plans, systems, and teams. Your leadership will be instrumental in scaling Handshake AI.

Day in the Life

A typical day involves leading Weekly Business Reviews to assess pod performance, setting priorities for Strategic Project Leads (SPLs) and managers, and solving critical project challenges. You'll be deeply involved in resource allocation, workflow optimization, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality AI training and evaluation datasets. Expect to spend time collaborating with Product, Growth, and Research teams, translating evolving data strategies into executable projects. Additionally, coaching team members, fostering a collaborative culture, and driving process improvements will be key aspects of your daily activities.

Why San Francisco, CA?

San Francisco is a global hub for technology and innovation, making it the ideal location for Handshake AI. The city offers access to a wealth of talent, resources, and networking opportunities. Being situated in San Francisco allows you to collaborate with leading AI labs, Fortune 500 companies, and top educational institutions. The city's vibrant ecosystem fosters a culture of innovation and provides a unique environment for professional growth and development.

Career Path

This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within Handshake AI and the broader Handshake organization. You can progress to higher-level leadership positions, such as Vice President or Senior Vice President, overseeing larger teams and strategic initiatives. The experience gained in this role can also lead to opportunities in related fields, such as product management, business development, or general management. Handshake is committed to providing ongoing training and development to support your career growth.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience. In addition to a base salary, Handshake AI offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, stock options, commuter benefits, wellness programs, and employee assistance programs. We also provide generous vacation and paid time off, flexible work arrangements, and company-sponsored events and activities.

Mission

Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and empower the next generation of talent. As Head of Strategic Projects, you will play a critical role in advancing this mission by ensuring the delivery of high-quality AI solutions that enable students and professionals to connect with meaningful career opportunities. You will contribute to building a more equitable and inclusive workforce by providing access to the tools and resources needed to succeed in the AI economy.

How to Apply

To apply for the Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI position, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal. In your cover letter, highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, and explain why you are interested in joining Handshake AI. We encourage you to showcase your leadership abilities, project management expertise, and passion for driving innovation in the AI space.

FAQ

  1. What is Handshake AI? Handshake AI is a division of Handshake focused on leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance career discovery, hiring, and upskilling for knowledge workers.
  2. What does the AI delivery pod do? The AI delivery pod is responsible for the execution and delivery of AI-related projects, including data training, evaluation, and model deployment.
  3. What is the size of the team I will be leading? You will lead a team of 8 or more team members, including managers and individual contributors.
  4. What are the key metrics for success in this role? Key metrics include on-time delivery, quality, throughput, utilization, and margin.
  5. What cross-functional teams will I be working with? You will collaborate with Product, Growth, Research, and Engagement teams.
  6. What kind of projects will I be overseeing? You will be overseeing complex, high-stakes data and evaluation projects.
  7. What opportunities for professional development are available? Handshake offers various professional development opportunities, including training programs, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities.
  8. What is the company culture like at Handshake? Handshake fosters a collaborative, transparent, and high-performing culture built on a commitment to operational excellence.
  9. What is the interview process like? The interview process typically involves multiple rounds of interviews with members of the Handshake AI team, including the hiring manager, peers, and leadership.
  10. What is the company's approach to work-life balance? Handshake is committed to providing a supportive work environment that promotes work-life balance. We offer flexible work arrangements and generous paid time off.

Locations

  • San Francisco, CA, USA

Salary

Estimated Salary Rangehigh confidence

180,000 - 300,000 USD / yearly

Source: ai estimated

* This is an estimated range based on market data and may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required

  • Strategic Planningintermediate
  • Project Managementintermediate
  • Team Leadershipintermediate
  • AI Deliveryintermediate
  • Data Analysisintermediate
  • Operational Excellenceintermediate
  • Cross-functional Collaborationintermediate
  • Business Developmentintermediate
  • P&L Managementintermediate
  • Stakeholder Managementintermediate
  • Coachingintermediate
  • Mentoringintermediate
  • Performance Managementintermediate
  • Process Improvementintermediate
  • Data Strategyintermediate

Required Qualifications

  • 10+ years of experience in strategic project management or a similar role. (experience)
  • 5+ years of experience leading and managing high-performing teams. (experience)
  • Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget. (experience)
  • Deep understanding of AI and machine learning concepts. (experience)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. (experience)
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. (experience)
  • Experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. (experience)
  • Ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional teams. (experience)
  • Experience with data analysis and reporting. (experience)
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field; Master's degree preferred. (experience)
  • Demonstrated experience in improving operational metrics. (experience)
  • Strong understanding of business outcomes and P&L management. (experience)
  • Experience in building and fostering high-performing cultures. (experience)

Responsibilities

  • Own and lead an AI delivery pod of 8 or more team members (managers and individual contributors).
  • Run Weekly Business Reviews that track pod performance, drive alignment on metrics, and set clear priorities for SPLs and managers.
  • Operate as the GM of your pod, responsible for business outcomes, throughput, quality, and the operational P and L for your portfolio.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Product, Growth, and Research to translate evolving data strategies into executable project scopes, systems, and resourcing plans.
  • Ensure high-quality delivery of AI training and evaluation datasets, including scoping, workflow design, and system-level guardrails for quality and scalability.
  • Drive systems-level improvements that increase efficiency, quality, and capacity, and that can be adopted across other pods and teams.
  • Develop leaders and ICs on your team through coaching, clear expectations, developmental feedback, and growth opportunities.
  • Foster a high-performing culture built on close collaboration, transparency, and a commitment to operational excellence that raises standards across Handshake AI.
  • Manage the pod's budget and resources effectively.
  • Identify and mitigate risks associated with project delivery.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders.
  • Continuously improve the pod's processes and workflows.

Benefits

  • general: Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • general: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI technology.
  • general: Chance to make a significant impact on the future of career development.
  • general: Collaborative and supportive work environment.
  • general: Professional development opportunities.
  • general: Generous vacation and paid time off.
  • general: Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • general: 401(k) plan with company match.
  • general: Stock options.
  • general: Commuter benefits.
  • general: Wellness programs.
  • general: Employee assistance program.
  • general: Flexible work arrangements.
  • general: Company-sponsored events and activities.
  • general: Opportunity to work with a diverse and talented team.

Target Your Resume for "Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA | Apply Today!" , Handshake

Get personalized recommendations to optimize your resume specifically for Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA | Apply Today!. Takes only 15 seconds!

AI-powered keyword optimization
Skills matching & gap analysis
Experience alignment suggestions

Check Your ATS Score for "Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA | Apply Today!" , Handshake

Find out how well your resume matches this job's requirements. Get comprehensive analysis including ATS compatibility, keyword matching, skill gaps, and personalized recommendations.

ATS compatibility check
Keyword optimization analysis
Skill matching & gap identification
Format & readability score

Tags & Categories

AIStrategic ProjectsManagementSan FranciscoFull-timeAI DeliveryTeam LeadershipProject ManagementHandshake AIData StrategyBusiness DevelopmentOperational ExcellenceAI TrainingAI EvaluationMachine LearningCareer DevelopmentTechnologyInnovationData AnalysisP&L ManagementCross-functional CollaborationCoachingMentoringPerformance ManagementProcess ImprovementAI EconomyTech JobsCalifornia JobsEdTechCareer PlatformEngineeringProduct

Answer 10 quick questions to check your fit for Head of Strategic Projects, Handshake AI - San Francisco, CA | Apply Today! @ Handshake.

Quiz Challenge
10 Questions
~2 Minutes
Instant Score

Related Books and Jobs

No related jobs found at the moment.