Senior AI Ethicist and Governance Specialist

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

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior AI Ethicist and Governance Specialist to shape ethical frameworks for cutting-edge AI in Johannesburg. You will drive governance, risk assessments, and training across research, engineering, legal, and product teams to embed ethics throughout the AI lifecycle.

The role demands 7+ years of AI ethics experience, advanced degrees, and exceptional communication to engage diverse stakeholders. Hybrid work and a competitive package are offered.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Ethics, Philosophy, Law, CS or related.
• 7+ years of AI ethics, responsible AI or governance experience.
• Proven track record in developing governance policies for complex tech.
• Strong understanding of AI/ML and societal impact.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain AI ethics policies and governance guidelines.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments and impact analyses for AI projects.
• Advise on data privacy, fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI.
• Collaborate with legal/compliance to meet regulatory requirements (POPIA, GDPR).
• Design and deliver training on AI ethics for diverse stakeholders.
• Monitor trends and contribute to responsible AI product strategies.

Skills

AI ethics

Governance

Regulatory compliance

Data privacy

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Ethics/Law/CS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the AI & Emerging Technologies sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior AI Ethicist and Governance Specialist to join their dynamic team in **Johannesburg, Gauteng**. This pivotal role involves shaping the ethical framework and governance structures that underpin the development and deployment of advanced AI systems. You will be instrumental in ensuring our client's AI initiatives align with global ethical standards, regulatory requirements, and societal values. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of artificial intelligence in a responsible and sustainable manner within a leading organization at the forefront of technological innovation. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with diverse teams, including researchers, engineers, legal experts, and product managers, to embed ethical considerations throughout the AI lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive AI ethics policies, guidelines, and best practices.
• Conduct ethical risk assessments and impact analyses for new and existing AI projects.
• Advise on data privacy, fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI systems.
• Collaborate with legal and compliance teams to ensure adherence to relevant regulations (e.g., POPIA, GDPR principles).
• Design and deliver training programs on AI ethics for various stakeholders across the organization.
• Monitor emerging trends and best practices in AI ethics and governance globally.
• Facilitate discussions and workshops on complex ethical dilemmas related to AI.
• Contribute to the development of responsible AI product strategies.
• Engage with external stakeholders, including industry bodies and regulators, on AI ethics matters.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Ethics, Philosophy, Law, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field with a strong focus on AI ethics.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in AI ethics, responsible AI, technology governance, or a related domain.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing ethical frameworks or governance policies for complex technologies.
• Deep understanding of AI/ML concepts, algorithms, and their societal implications.
• Familiarity with data protection regulations and ethical considerations in data usage.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex ethical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Experience in stakeholder management and engagement.
• Knowledge of AI development lifecycle and associated ethical challenges is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous annual salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, and a retirement savings plan.
• Employees also benefit from ongoing professional development opportunities, access to cutting-edge research, a supportive and collaborative work environment, and the chance to work on impactful AI projects that shape the future.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a rapidly growing sector are abundant.
• Enjoy a modern office space in **Johannesburg, Gauteng**, with convenient access to public transport and amenities, complemented by flexible hybrid working arrangements to promote work-life balance.