AI Ethics and Governance Lead

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced AI Ethics and Governance Lead in a hybrid role, based in Paarl, Western Cape. You will establish robust ethical frameworks, govern AI initiatives, and collaborate with legal, compliance, research and engineering teams to embed ethics into the AI lifecycle.

The role requires an advanced degree and 5+ years in AI ethics or governance, with strong analytical and communication skills and the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree with focus on technology ethics.
• 5+ years in AI ethics, governance or policy development.
• Deep understanding of AI/ML ethics challenges.
• Familiarity with AI-related regulations and compliance.
• Strong analytical, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain AI ethics policies and governance frameworks.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments and impact analyses for AI projects.
• Provide training on ethical AI principles and practices.
• Monitor AI systems for fairness, transparency and accountability.
• Collaborate with legal and compliance to ensure regulatory adherence.
• Advise on responsible data usage and privacy in AI development.
• Engage with external stakeholders, researchers and industry bodies.
• Contribute to tools and processes to support AI governance.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Stakeholder management

Regulatory awareness

Education

Master's or PhD in Ethics/Law/CS/Philosophy with tech ethics focus

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 .