AI Director

South Island Garment Sdn Bhd; Seberang Perai; On-site; MYR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading apparel manufacturer in Malaysia seeks an experienced AI Director to develop and implement innovative AI strategies. The role demands a strong background in AI/ML development and leadership, focusing on integrating AI solutions in design and manufacturing processes. Ideal candidates must possess a Master's or PhD and significant experience in managing AI initiatives within the apparel sector.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10-15 years of experience in AI/ML development.
• Proven record in implementing AI solutions in manufacturing or retail.
• Solid understanding of garment manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Develop a comprehensive AI strategy and roadmap.
• Lead the AI team to drive innovation and integration.
• Manage budget for AI initiatives and technology procurement.

Skills

Leadership in AI initiatives

Communication skills

AI/ML development experience

Data governance knowledge

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in relevant field

Tools

AWS

Azure

Python

R

Job description

South Island Garment Sdn. Bhd. (SIG), a subsidiary of Magni-Tech Industries Berhad, has been a leading manufacturer of branded sports and leisure outerwear garments since 1975. Headquartered in Penang, Malaysia, SIG leverages strategic manufacturing partnerships in Vietnam to serve global markets. With over 40 years of experience, the company is recognized for its reliable production of high-quality, sophisticated woven sportswear. SIG exports to international markets including the USA, Europe, South America, China, Japan, Mexico, Australia, and Canada. Committed to innovation, product integrity, and corporate social responsibility, SIG continues to uphold its strong reputation in the apparel industry.

Job Description

• Develop and articulate a comprehensive AI strategy and roadmap aligned with SIG's overall business objectives, digitalization goals, and long-term vision.
• Identify high-impact AI opportunities across design, product development, manufacturing, quality control, supply chain, and customer engagement.
• Lead the evaluation, selection, and implementation of cutting-edge AI technologies and platforms.
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team of AI designers, data scientists, machine learning engineers, and other AI specialists.
• Foster a culture of innovation, experimentation, and continuous learning within the AI team and across the organization.

Cross-Functional AI Integration

• Drive the seamless integration of AI solutions into existing and new workflows across design, production, merchandising, supply chain, and quality assurance departments.
• Collaborate closely with senior leadership, IT, R&D, and operational teams to ensure successful AI adoption and measurable business outcomes.

Advanced AI Application & Innovation

• Oversee the development and deployment of advanced AI/ML models for generative design, predictive analytics (e.g., trend forecasting, demand planning), intelligent automation, quality inspection, and supply chain optimization.
• Champion research into emerging AI trends in textiles, sustainable materials, smart manufacturing, and digital fashion.

Data Governance & Ethics

• Establish robust data governance frameworks to ensure data quality, accessibility, and ethical use for AI initiatives, adhering to all data privacy regulations (e.g., PDPA).
• Ensure responsible AI development and deployment, considering ethical implications, bias mitigation, and transparency.

Budget & Resource Management

• Manage the budget for AI initiatives, technology procurement, and talent acquisition.
• Evaluate potential partnerships with external AI vendors, research institutions, and technology providers.

Education and Experience

• Master's or PhD in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer Science, Data Science, Textile Engineering, Industrial Design, or a closely related technical field.
• Solid understanding of garment construction, textiles, apparel manufacturing processes, and supply chain dynamics.
• Excellent command of English, with strong visual, written, and verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in AI/ML development, data science, or advanced digital design, with at least 5 years in a leadership or directorial role overseeing AI initiatives.
• Proven track record of successfully strategizing, implementing, and scaling AI solutions in a manufacturing, retail, or product development environment, preferably within the apparel or textile industry.
• Extensive experience with AI/ML frameworks, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP), data visualization tools, and relevant programming languages (e.g., Python, R).
• Demonstrable expertise in managing complex cross-functional projects and driving organizational change.

Application Questions

Your application will include the following questions:

• Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Malaysia?
• What's your expected monthly basic salary?
• Which of the following types of qualifications do you have?
• Have you worked in a role which requires experience with machine learning?
• Which of the following programming languages are you experienced in?