For you the files should be found in “C:/Program Files (x86)/Steam/steamapps/common/Automation/WindowsNoEditor/AutomationGame/Content/FMOD/Desktop”
The issue is on startup FMOD Sound System is failing to load any of its sound banks. Which makes it seem like the files are not there. I know you have said you have done a verify. So Steam should have downloaded them. I just want to make sure.
I am having the same problem I have reinstalled my sound drivers but i still have the same problem. I have no sound and when it is exporting it gets stuck at sourcing lua data. I am not using mods.this problem happens on other games such as Oxygen not included, Celeste and the emulator(all on steam).
Could I get an AutomationGame.log file from you? If you start Automation from the Launcher/Options tool you can click on Game Log Button to take you to it.