Cape Town: AI Solutions Lead (Durbanville OR Centurion) posted by Datafin

March 14, 2026 Jobs in Cape Peninsula

Datafin

Western Cape

Other IT/Computer

Job Description

AI Solutions Lead (Durbanville OR Centurion)IT – Software Development
Cape Town – Western Cape – South Africa

ENVIRONMENT:

A forward-thinking & business-oriented professional is sought by a dynamic Engineering Service Provider to fill the role of an AI Solutions Lead. You will be responsible for identifying high-impact opportunities for Artificial Intelligence across the organisation and driving real-world implementation through collaboration with third-party experts and internal coordination. This position is business-driven and focused on operational strategy and innovation and is not a software or coding position. It is specifically not suited to those pursuing Programming or Data Science, as it does not involve coding or technical model development. Applicants must possess a Masters/Bachelors Degree in Business/Engineering/Innovation or a related field with 5+ years of experience in Operations, Product Development, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, or Business Transformation.

DUTIES:

Identify High-Value Use Cases –

Walk the floor, engage teams, and map workflows to determine where AI can unlock productivity, business insights, or automation and competitive advantages.
Develop a wide and deep understanding of industry and business trends, identify and translate opportunities and challenges into structured problem and solutions statements.
Use your understanding of physical processes, constraints, and technology to assess viability.

Build the Business Case

Prioritize opportunities based on business impact, effort, and speed to value.
Develop clear, ROI-driven business cases that align with operational goals.
Present and communicate these opportunities to senior leadership and stakeholders.

Engage the Right Expertise –

Scout, evaluate, and collaborate with third-party AI vendors, domain experts, and technology providers.
Serve as the internal Project Lead translating business needs to external providers and ensuring delivery stays aligned with outcomes.
You dont build the tech you guide the vision, manage the outcomes, and ensure it solves the right problem.

Lead Implementation & Change –

Coordinate implementation efforts across business units and external partners.
Define success metrics, monitor progress, and remove roadblocks to execution.
Develop and lead training efforts to build awareness and capability around the new tools or workflows.

Promote Innovation Across the Organization

Champion a practical understanding of AI what it is, what it isnt, and where it can help.
Host workshops, lead internal demonstrations, and empower teams to think differently.
Help build a culture that is open to experimentation and continuous improvement.

REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifications

Masters or Bachelors Degree in Business, Engineering, Innovation, Operations, or a related field.

Experience/Skills

5+ Years of experience in Operations, Product Development, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, or Business Transformation.
Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and manage external technology partners.
Fluent in English, with exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, capable of engaging confidently across technical and executive audiences.
Able to influence across technical and business domains.
Has strong business instincts.
Naturally curious, hands-on, and relentless about solving real problems.
Not afraid of technology, but more focused on what it enables rather than how it works under the hood.
Attention to detail and accuracy in work.
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
Outstanding organisational and time management skills.
Willingness to travel internationally.

Nice to Have (But Not Required):

Familiarity with AI/ML applications in Operations or Manufacturing.
Experience working with Technology Vendors, Solution Providers, or Consultants.
Exposure to innovation frameworks like Lean, Six Sigma, Design Thinking, or Agile.

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About Other IT/Computer Jobs in Western Cape

The Western Cape, situated on the south coast of South Africa, is home to a thriving IT industry that offers a diverse range of career opportunities for professionals with expertise in various fields.

The job market in the Western Cape is highly competitive, with many major companies and startups operating in the region. The province’s strategic location, combined with its well-developed infrastructure, makes it an attractive hub for businesses looking to establish themselves in Africa. As a result, there is a high demand for skilled IT professionals who can support the growth of these companies.

The average salary ranges for IT professionals in the Western Cape are as follows: software engineers and developers can expect to earn between R800 000 to R1 200 000 per annum; data scientists and analysts can range from R600 000 to R900 000; cybersecurity specialists can earn anywhere from R500 000 to R800 000; and IT project managers can command salaries ranging from R400 000 to R700 000. These figures are based on industry standards and may vary depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, and company size.

To succeed in an IT career in the Western Cape, professionals need to possess a range of key skills, including programming languages (Java, Python, C++), data structures and algorithms, software development methodologies, cloud computing (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), cybersecurity principles, and excellent communication skills. Additionally, knowledge of industry-specific tools and technologies, such as SAP or Oracle, can be highly valued.

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Several major companies and industries are actively hiring IT professionals in the Western Cape. For example, tech giants like IBM and Dell have a strong presence in the region, while financial institutions such as Standard Bank and First National Bank also have significant IT departments. The automotive industry is another major sector that employs IT professionals, with companies like Toyota and Volkswagen having operations in the province.

Career growth opportunities are plentiful for IT professionals in the Western Cape, with many companies offering training and development programs to help employees upskill and reskill. With experience, professionals can move into senior roles such as technical lead or manager, or transition into related fields like business analysis or consulting. The region’s entrepreneurial spirit also makes it an ideal location for startups, providing opportunities for IT professionals to launch their own businesses or join innovative companies that are shaping the future of technology.

This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.

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