Manager AI and Decision Science at Absa Group Limited (Absa)

Job Description

Key Focus Areas

• Piloting and monitoring emerging AI and Analytics technologies relevant to HC.
• Strategic implementation of AI and advanced analytics and decision science in HC.
• Oversight of integration of AI solutions into HC platforms in alignment with technical partners.
• Cross-functional collaboration and adoption across HC COO, CoEs, HC Tech, ITO and delivery partners.
• Performance measurement and continuous optimisation of AI initiatives.
• Talent development, capability building, and fostering an innovation culture.
• Assurance of governance, data integrity, and ethical AI practices.

Key Accountabilities

Innovation & Emerging Technology

• Work in alignment with the AI strategist to continuously scan the external environment for emerging AI tools, platforms, and techniques relevant to HC.
• Pilot and experiment with new solutions, balancing innovation with risk and governance guardrails.
• Promote an internal culture of experimentation (e.g. hackathons, proof-of-concepts) within the AI / Analytics team and across HC.
• Contribute thought leadership on AI in HC, positioning the organisation as a progressive, future-fit employer.

Strategic AI, Decision Science and Analytics Leadership

• Develop and execute a 1–2 year roadmap for AI and analytics aligned to HC and enterprise digital transformation priorities.
• Translate organisational goals into AI-enabled HC strategies that enhance decision-making, workforce planning, efficiency and employee experience.
• Identify and prioritise high-value use cases across HC (e.g. talent acquisition, skills mapping, attrition, performance, mobility, learning) in alignment with the HC AI CoE.
• Horizon-scan industry trends, generative AI, and future-of-work technologies, advising HC leadership on risks and opportunities.

AI and Decision Science Integration & Solution Delivery

• Oversee the design, development, and integration of independent AI/ Machine Learning (ML) models into HC workflows, systems (HCIS, LMS, talent platforms), and data pipelines.
• Ensure AI solutions are scalable, modular, and aligned with enterprise architecture and data governance standards.
• Collaborate with HC Tech, Group Technology, and data teams to deploy reusable AI assets (APIs, models, dashboards) for sustainable adoption.
• Manage/ oversee vendor relationships and external partners to evaluate and integrate third-party AI solutions where relevant.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Adoption

• Partner with HC CoEs, CPOs, HC COO and Technology teams to identify, scope, and deliver AI-enabled initiatives.
• Act as a bridge between technical specialists (data scientists, ML engineers) and business leaders to ensure alignment and adoption.
• Lead stakeholder engagement, building trust in AI solutions though workshops, demos, and clear communication of value.
• Drive change management strategies to embed data-driven decision-making and digital-first mindsets across HC.

Performance Evaluation & Optimization

• Define success metrics and performance frameworks for AI initiatives (accuracy, adoption, ROI, user experience).
• Implement monitoring and feedback loops to refine models, improve outcomes, and optimise solutions.
• Regularly report on impact and recommend enhancements to maximise business and workforce value.

Team Leadership & Capability Building

• Lead, mentor, and develop AI Research Scientists, Machine Learning Engineers and Data Scientists, setting clear OKRs and performance standards.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning within the team.
• Build broader HC capability by upskilling HC professionals in AI fluency, analytics, and digital tools.
• Champion a growth mindset and ensure sustainability of AI knowledge and practices across HC.

Governance, Risk & Ethical AI

• Define and enforce best practices for data quality, privacy, fairness, and responsible AI use in HC, in alignment with Group, the HC AI strategist and the AI CoE.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and policies (e.g. GDPR, POPIA, internal governance standards).
• Monitor model performance for drift, bias, and unintended outcomes; lead recalibration and improvements.
• Establish transparent KPIs, explainability frameworks, and reporting mechanisms for AI-driven decisions.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Technical & Analytical

• Strong knowledge of AI/ML concepts, model lifecycle management, generative AI, NLP, and data science methods.
• Proficiency with data science tools e.g. Python, R, SQL, Data Bricks and cloud platforms e.g. AWS, Azure, GCP.
• Understanding of Human Capital Management processes and systems (e.g. Workday, SAP SuccessFactors), talent platforms, and workforce analytics systems.
• Experience in data governance, data privacy, and ethical AI frameworks.

Strategic & Conceptual Thinking

• Ability to conceptualise multi-year strategic initiatives and align them with HC strategy and enterprise digital transformation.
• Strong business acumen and understanding of HC operating models, workforce dynamics, and future-of-work trends.
• Systems thinking approach to integrate across HC domains and anticipate interdependencies.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage technical professionals.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills to bridge technical and business audiences.
• Experience in change management and driving adoption of digital/AI initiatives.

Future-Fit Capabilities

• Curiosity, adaptability, and resilience in navigating emerging technologies and ambiguity.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying ahead of AI and HC tech trends.
• Strong ethical compass, integrity, and commitment to fairness in AI use.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s degree (or higher) in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field (or equivalent experience).
• 5–8+ years’ experience in AI plus Insights/ predictive analytics roles, with exposure to HC or workforce-related applications.
• Track record of delivering scalable AI / Analytics/ Insights projects in large, complex organisations.

Education

• Bachelor`s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Business, Commerce and Management Studies (Required)

End Date: February 17, 2026