Data AI Specialist

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).