Job Description

Main Purpose

This strategic role will be instrumental in advancing the organization's data maturity and AI capabilities, with a focus on

building and leading the technical growth of the DMA team

, driving

AI adoption across the group

, and

engaging directly with C-level executives

on strategic data and analytics initiatives.

ACCOUNTABILITIES & RESPONSIBILITIES (KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS & TASKS)

Technical Leadership & Team Development

Architect and implement scalable data and AI solutions aligned with Telco-specific challenges and opportunities. Provide technical direction and mentorship in building out the DMA (Data Management & Analytics) team. Lead the evaluation and adoption of modern data technologies and frameworks

AI Strategy & Delivery

Champion the design, delivery, and operationalization of AI/ML models that drive measurable business value. Define AI adoption roadmaps and ensure successful integration into business workflows and systems. Oversee AI use case identification, prioritization, experimentation, and scale-up.

Stakeholder Engagement

Collaborate with business leaders, data engineers, analysts, and product teams to ensure alignment of AI initiatives with organizational goals. Engage with

C-level executives

and senior stakeholders to shape the data and AI agenda and translate strategic objectives into data initiatives. Communicate complex data concepts and insights clearly and persuasively to business and executive audiences.

Data Governance & Quality

Advocate and implement data management best practices, including data lineage, quality, privacy, and ethical AI standards. Work with the Head of DMA to develop and institutionalize governance frameworks and policies.

Strategic Initiatives

Act as a thought leader in identifying emerging trends in data and AI relevant to the Telco industry. Play a key role in enterprise-wide digital transformation and strategic planning.

Competencies and Minimum Requirements:

Qualifications and experience

Bachelor's or master's degree in computer science, Data Science, Engineering, or a related field. 8+ years of experience in data science, data engineering, or related fields, with demonstrable leadership experience. Proven track record of

AI/ML delivery at scale

in enterprise environments, ideally within the telecommunications sector. Deep understanding of cloud data platforms, AI/ML technologies, and data lifecycle management. Experience in managing or growing technical teams.

Preferred Experience & Skills:

Strong familiarity with Telco-specific data structures, network data, and customer analytics. Expertise in Python, SQL, cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or GCP), and modern ML tools and frameworks. Strong business acumen with the ability to connect technical insights to business value. Skilled in stakeholder management, including executive-level communication. * Experience with data governance frameworks and regulatory environments (e.g., POPIA, GDPR).