Diector: Technology Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Governance REF NO: DTIAIG at Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT)

REQUIREMENTS :

• An appropriate NQF Level 7 qualification / Degree in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) / Computer Science, Information Systems / Digital Transformation, Engineering/Innovation Management or a relevant equivalent qualification.
• A minimum of five (5) years’ experience at Middle / Senior Management in leading digital transformation, technology adoption, or innovation ecosystem development. A postgraduate qualification (NQF Level 8 or above) in Digital Economy Studies, Technology Management, or Public Sector Innovation will be an added advantage.
• Skills / Competencies And Knowledge: Strategic Capability and Leadership, People Management and Empowerment, Programme and Project Management, Financial Management, Change Management, Problem Solving And Analysis, Client Orientation, Customer Focused Communication, Emerging Technology Integration, Internet Of Things (Iot), Cloud Computing, Big Data Analytics, Digital Transformation, ICT Ecosystem, National Digital and Future Skills Strategy 4IR Initiatives, AI Governance and Responsible AI, Emerging Technology Strategy and Foresight, Technology Policy and Regulatory Analysis, Innovation Ecosystem Development, Entrepreneurship and ICT SMME Development, Technology Commercialisation, Strategic Partnership Development and Resource Mobilisation, Public-Private Partnerships, International Technology Cooperation, Technology Investment and Financing Models, Government Policy and Legislative Processes, Technology Standards and Ethics, Innovation Procurement and Market Creation. 

DUTIES :

• The purpose of the post is to manage and create an enabling digital environment, policy framework and innovative strategic reforms that govern the delivery of technology innovation, research and artificial intelligence governance services in line with the department’s strategic objectives.
• The successful candidate will manage and drive the development and implementation of technologies and artificial intelligence policies and strategies to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in the digital sector. Research and analyse emerging technologies, market trends and industry practices to inform strategic decision-making and increase innovation in high-tech manufacturing and relevant industries.
• Invest in research and development (R&D), establish financing and alternative start-up scheme activities to support and promote responsible innovation practices. Facilitate access to venture capital, grants, blended finance, development finance, corporate investment and public-private partnerships, and manage intellectual property and technology transfer processes to support the commercialisation of government-supported innovation.
• Identify the latest emerging disruptive technologies, potential opportunities of emerging technologies applicable to government, society, and operational services and develop mitigation strategies to mitigate potential risks. Spearhead initiatives to support ICT and mobilise support and incubation to foster a culture of experimentation and creativity within society, driving forward-thinking approaches to problem-solving and service delivery.
• Develop and support innovation ecosystems, guiding technologies and enterprises through the continuum of research, innovation, prototyping, incubation, funding, commercialisation, market adoption and scaling. Collaborate with industry partners, research institutions, and other stakeholders to establish partnerships to drive technology adoption and innovation and stay updated on the latest technological advancements and trends.
• Build, negotiate and sustain strategic partnerships with multinational technology companies, research institutions, universities, international organisations, development agencies, investors and entrepreneurs, identifying mutual value and mobilising resources to convert relationships into sustainable programmes. Drive global developments and policy frameworks related to emerging technologies to ensure alignment with national objectives and priorities.
• Monitor and interpret international technology policy developments within the ITU, United Nations, G20, BRICS, African Union and other relevant institutions, and translate these into South African policy responses and implementation programmes. Conduct SEIAS and manage the design of an AI governance framework to monitor compliance with relevant regulations and standards, manage risks and ensure ethical and responsible AI use.
• Support the establishment and maintenance of AI Institute, Hubs and Centres of Excellence, and support initiatives to develop AI applications, platforms and solutions in collaboration with entities and partners. Contributing to key result areas such as strategic functional leadership, managing human resources, managing financial resources, driving change and operational excellence, and managing and ensuring compliance