Artificial Intelligence Lead

Standard Bank Group is a leading Africa-focused financial services group, and an innovative player on the global stage, that offers a variety of career-enhancing opportunities – plus the chance to work alongside some of the sector’s most talented, motivated professionals. Our clients range from individuals, to businesses of all sizes, high net worth families and large multinational corporates and institutions. We’re passionate about creating growth in Africa. Bringing true, meaningful value to our clients and the communities we serve and creating a real sense of purpose for you.

Design, build, test and maintain software solutions while contributing AI-enabled implementation capabilities that improve delivery speed, quality and operational reliability. The role supports modern engineering practices through software development, automated testing, CI/CD enablement, workflow automation, API integration, AI-assisted implementation patterns and repeatable engineering assets, while operating within agreed engineering standards, architectural guardrails and documentation requirements.

The role will provide executive leadership across AI strategy, innovation, delivery, architecture, engineering standards, governance, data enablement, adoption, benefits realisation and capability development

## Qualifications

Type of Qualification: First Degree
Field of Study: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Statistics, Engineering, Mathematics, Information Technology or a related field.

Master's degree in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computer Science, Business Administration, Analytics or a related discipline.

Professional certifications in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cloud Platforms, Data Science, Responsible AI or Enterprise Architecture will be an added advantage

Experience Required
8-10 years

• Proven experience in modern engineering practices (e.g., DevOps, Agile) across multiple engineering disciplines, with depth in at least one area.
• Proven track record delivering large-scale AI and Machine Learning programs from strategy and design through production deployment, adoption and measurable business impact.
• Demonstrated knowledge of AI governance, model risk, cybersecurity, data governance, cloud AI platforms and emerging AI regulation.
• Experience in banking, financial services, fintech, telecommunications, consulting or another highly regulated industry.
• Broad experience in translating business and functional requirements into technical specifications and developing the programming code to create the solutions.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Articulating Information
• Developing Expertise
• Documenting Facts
• Embracing Change
• Examining Information
• Interpreting Data
• Producing Output
• Taking Action
• Team Working

Technical Competencies:

• Generative AI, Agentic AI and Machine Learning
•  AI architecture, MLOps and LLMOps
• Responsible AI and model risk management
• Cloud AI platforms and reusable AI services
• Data governance, security and regulatory compliance
• Production monitoring and cost optimisation

## Additional Information

Our culture is defined by the values that guide every interaction, decision, and outcome:

• Deeply Committed – We deliver with purpose, accountability, and a focus on excellence.
• Boldly Pioneering – We embrace innovation, challenge conventional thinking, and drive meaningful change.
• Trusted Stewards – We act responsibly, safeguarding the interests of our clients, colleagues, and communities.
• Guided by Empathy – We value diverse perspectives and foster meaningful relationships through understanding and respect.
• Unfailingly Honourable – We uphold the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and ethical conduct.