Data Lead / Ai Lead

Accenture In South Africa; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting firm in South Africa is searching for a Director to develop and implement a comprehensive data and AI strategy. In this role, you will oversee data architecture and lead cross-functional teams to identify data requirements. Responsibilities include managing a team of experts and driving innovation in data and AI projects. Ideal candidates will hold advanced degrees and have extensive experience in data leadership roles, especially in the Products and Platforms Services domain.

Benefits

World-class training and development opportunities

Work on cutting-edge projects

Collaborate with industry leaders

Qualifications

• Years of experience in data and AI leadership roles, preferably within the PPS domain.
• Proven experience in managing end-to-end data and AI projects.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms and big data technologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive data strategy for the PPS project.
• Oversee data architecture, governance, and quality.
• Collaborate with teams to identify data requirements and optimization opportunities.

Skills

Data architecture

Machine learning

AI technologies (Python, TensorFlow, Azure AI)

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Azure

AWS

GCP

Job description

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement a comprehensive data strategy for the PPS project, ensuring alignment with business objectives.

Oversee data architecture, governance, and quality to ensure data integrity and accessibility.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify data requirements and opportunities for optimization.

Lead the design, development, and deployment of AI and machine learning models to solve complex business problems.

Identify opportunities to leverage AI for automation, predictive analytics, and decision‑making.

Ensure AI solutions are ethical, scalable, and aligned with Accenture's Responsible AI principles.

Manage and mentor a team of data scientists, engineers, and analysts to deliver high‑quality solutions.

Foster collaboration between technical teams, business stakeholders, and clients to ensure successful project delivery.

Act as a thought leader in data and AI, providing guidance and expertise to the team and stakeholders.

Stay updated on the latest trends and advancements in data and AI technologies.

Drive innovation by identifying and implementing cutting‑edge tools and methodologies.

Continuously evaluate and improve existing data and AI processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Work closely with clients and stakeholders to understand their needs and translate them into actionable data and AI strategies.

Present insights, recommendations, and project updates to senior leadership and clients.

Ensure alignment between project deliverables and client expectations.

Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field.

Years of experience in data and AI leadership roles, preferably within the PPS domain.

Strong expertise in data architecture, machine learning, and AI technologies (e.g., Python, TensorFlow, Azure AI, etc.).

Proven experience in managing end‑to‑end data and AI projects, from strategy to implementation.

Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Familiarity with cloud platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS, GCP) and big data technologies.

Knowledge of Accenture's Responsible AI principles and ethical AI practices is a plus.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in the Products and Platforms Services (PPS) domain.
• Certifications in AI, data science, or cloud platforms (e.g., Azure AI Engineer, AWS Certified Machine Learning).
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a global team driving innovation in data and AI.

Work on cutting‑edge projects that make a real impact.

Access to world‑class training and development opportunities.

Collaborate with industry leaders and experts in the PPS domain.

Job Details

• Seniority level: Director
• Employment type: Full‑time
• Job function: Information Technology
• Industries: Business Consulting and Services