AI Ethics and Governance Lead

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced AI Ethics and Governance Lead based in Paarl, Western Cape. This hybrid role combines in-office collaboration with remote flexibility, working with legal, compliance, research, and engineering teams to embed ethical considerations across the AI lifecycle.

The ideal candidate holds an advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in ethics, law, CS or philosophy with technology ethics focus and 5+ years of AI ethics experience.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in technology ethics or related field.
• 5+ years experience in AI ethics, governance or policy.
• Strong understanding of AI/ML and ethical challenges.
• Hybrid work experience and stakeholder engagement abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain AI ethics policies and governance frameworks.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments for new AI projects.
• Provide guidance and training on ethical AI principles.
• Monitor AI systems for bias, fairness, transparency, accountability.
• Collaborate with legal and compliance to adhere to regulations.
• Advise on responsible data usage and privacy in AI.
• Engage with external stakeholders and industry bodies.
• Contribute to tools and processes supporting AI governance.

Skills

AI ethics

Governance

Policy development

Regulatory knowledge

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder engagement

Hybrid work experience

Communication skills

Education

Master's/PhD in tech ethics

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in AI and Emerging Technologies, is seeking an experienced AI Ethics and Governance Lead. This critical role is based in our offices located in Paarl, Western Cape . You will be responsible for establishing and overseeing robust ethical frameworks and governance structures for all AI initiatives, ensuring responsible and trustworthy AI development and deployment. This hybrid role combines the benefits of collaborative in-office work with remote flexibility, allowing for optimal engagement. You will work closely with legal, compliance, research, and engineering teams to embed ethical considerations into the entire AI lifecycle. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the responsible future of AI in the Western Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive AI ethics policies and governance frameworks.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments and impact analyses for new AI projects and technologies.
• Provide guidance and training to teams on ethical AI principles and best practices.
• Monitor AI systems for fairness, transparency, accountability, and potential biases.
• Collaborate with legal and compliance departments to ensure adherence to relevant regulations.
• Advise on responsible data usage and privacy considerations in AI development.
• Engage with external stakeholders, researchers, and industry bodies on AI ethics topics.
• Contribute to the development of tools and processes to support AI governance.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Ethics, Law, Computer Science, Philosophy, or a related field with a focus on technology ethics.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in AI ethics, governance, policy development, or a related field.
• Deep understanding of AI/ML concepts and potential ethical challenges (bias, fairness, transparency, accountability).
• Familiarity with relevant legal and regulatory landscapes pertaining to AI.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment is essential.
• Knowledge of the Paarl, Western Cape regulatory environment is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including health insurance and retirement contributions, and opportunities for professional growth. You will play a pivotal role in shaping responsible AI development. This role provides significant autonomy and the opportunity to make a lasting impact. Enjoy a dynamic hybrid work environment that balances collaboration and flexibility. Benefits include generous annual leave and employee assistance programs. Join a leading organization committed to ethical innovation in AI, based in Paarl, Western Cape .