Lead AI Ethics and Governance Specialist

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible remote work

Professional development allowance

Health & wellness programs

EAP (Employee Assistance Program)

Industry forums participation

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Lead AI Ethics and Governance Specialist to establish and champion ethical AI practices. This fully remote role shapes the ethical framework guiding AI design, development and deployment across the organization.

You will work with research teams, legal counsel and executives to ensure AI initiatives are fair, transparent and accountable, ultimately protecting trust and integrity in our AI products.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in ethics or related field with AI ethics focus.
• Experience in developing AI ethics frameworks and governance structures.
• Knowledge of AI technologies, ML concepts and societal impact.
• Familiarity with global AI regulations and data privacy standards.
• Excellent analytical and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to translate complex ethics and technical concepts into actions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement AI ethics policies, guidelines and best practices.
• Establish governance frameworks for AI development and deployment, ensuring regulatory alignment.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments and impact analyses for AI projects.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers to embed ethics throughout the lifecycle.
• Provide training on AI ethics and responsible innovation principles.
• Engage with policymakers and academics on AI ethics issues.
• Monitor AI landscape for emerging ethical challenges and regulatory changes.
• Develop transparency, explainability and accountability mechanisms in AI systems.
• Advocate for ethical AI and foster a culture of responsible innovation.

Skills

AI ethics

Governance

Risk management

Policy development

Stakeholder collaboration

Communication

Regulatory awareness

Ethical decision-making

Education

Advanced degree in Ethics/Philosophy/Law/CS (AI ethics focus)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of responsible AI development and is seeking a visionary Lead AI Ethics and Governance Specialist to establish and champion ethical AI practices. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere. You will be instrumental in shaping the ethical framework guiding the design, development, and deployment of AI systems across the organization. This role requires a deep understanding of AI technologies, ethical principles, and regulatory landscapes. You will work closely with research and development teams, legal counsel, and executive leadership to ensure our AI initiatives are not only innovative but also fair, transparent, and accountable. Your work will directly impact the trust and integrity of our AI products.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive AI ethics policies, guidelines, and best practices.
• Establish robust governance frameworks for AI development and deployment, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and ethical standards.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments and impact analyses for new AI projects and applications.
• Collaborate with AI researchers and engineers to embed ethical considerations throughout the AI lifecycle.
• Provide training and guidance to teams on AI ethics and responsible innovation principles.
• Engage with external stakeholders, including policymakers and academics, on AI ethics issues.
• Monitor the AI landscape for emerging ethical challenges and regulatory changes.
• Develop mechanisms for transparency, explainability, and accountability in AI systems.
• Advocate for ethical AI principles and foster a culture of responsible innovation within the company.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Ethics, Philosophy, Law, Computer Science, or a related field with a focus on AI ethics.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing AI ethics frameworks and governance structures.
• In-depth knowledge of AI technologies, machine learning concepts, and their societal implications.
• Familiarity with relevant global regulations and standards related to AI and data privacy.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to translate complex ethical and technical concepts into actionable recommendations.
• Experience in risk management, compliance, or policy development.
• Strong ability to influence and collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Passion for ensuring AI benefits society responsibly.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Flexible remote work environment.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and mental health support programs.
• Generous allowance for professional development and learning opportunities.
• Opportunity to shape the future of responsible AI on a global scale.
• Company-sponsored participation in relevant industry forums and conferences.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).