63 AI Manager jobs in South Africa

Up to ZAR 700,000
salary on a full time, permanent employment contract

Fully remote working anywhere in South Africa

33 Days Paid Leave and Benefits

Exciting high growth product, relied on by leading global brands, particularly within sports

Working with the latest hardware, tech stack and tools

ABOUT US

Storyteller is a high growth B2B SaaS platform, which allows companies to integrate Stories into their owned and operated platforms. Popularized by Instagram and Snapchat, Stories are perfectly suited for boosting user engagement, audience retention, and driving advertising revenue.

Our end‑to‑end platform gives companies a best‑in‑class Stories experience in days with native iOS, Android, and Web SDKs, publishing tools, analytics, and ad support.

We work with many globally recognised clients, particularly within sport, so if you're a sporting fan this could be a great fit

RESPONSIBILITIES

What can you expect?

As an AI Operations Manager, you can expect to be part of a supportive and innovative team that values collaboration and creativity. You'll have the flexibility of working remotely, allowing you to balance your professional and personal life effectively. You'll engage with exciting sporting clients, providing you with unique insights and experiences in the sports industry.

This role will provide you with the opportunity to:

• Oversee and coordinate cross-team projects, using AI tools to track progress, manage dependencies, and keep delivery on schedule.
• Introduce and refine AI-driven processes that improve efficiency and reduce manual work across client and internal operations.
• Partner directly with sports organisations and global brands, supporting them with solutions enhanced by automation and data insights.
• Build and optimise internal systems that leverage AI for forecasting, reporting, and decision support as our client base grows.
• Proactively identify operational challenges and apply AI-powered approaches to streamline workflows and scale sustainably.

QUALIFICATIONS

What's important to us:

• A genuine sports fan with strong knowledge and enthusiasm for the industry.
• Experience in operations management or a related discipline.
• Curiosity about technology and AI, with proven ability to explore tools and apply them to real business problems.
• A proactive, hands-on mindset—comfortable stepping in wherever value can be added.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities effectively.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across teams.
• Reliable, consistent internet for remote work.

What's nice to have:

• Experience managing client relationships.
• Exposure to fast-paced, high-growth environments.
• SaaS or content industry background.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Firstly, you will be asked to complete an online video, which will involve answering a mixture of questions.

Secondly, if your video interview goes well, you will be invited for an interview with Alex, our Senior Project Manager. Depending on the outcome of this interview, you will be sent a follow-up task, which will give you an idea of what your day-to-day might look like (which you will be compensated for).

And that's it

Remote | Full-Time | 7+ Years Experience

Astra Applications – Building the Future with AI + Software

About Astra Applications

Astra Applications is a
U.S.-based software and AI development agency
serving clients both domestically and worldwide. We're on the
cutting edge of technology
, combining generative AI, CRM, and database solutions to deliver transformative applications for small businesses. Our culture thrives on
agility, adaptability, and innovation
—in 2025 and beyond, that means blending AI-first product strategies with rapid low-code prototyping to bring ideas to life faster than ever.

The Role

We're looking for a
Senior Product Manager
who can operate at the intersection of
client leadership, product strategy, agile delivery, and hands-on prototyping
. This isn't just a planning role—you'll also get into the creative build process using AI and low-code tools. You'll be a trusted partner for our clients, helping them imagine what's possible, and then guiding our design and development teams to

make it real.

What You'll Do

• Client Partner:
  Act as the primary point of contact for clients (non-sales), managing timelines, roadmaps, and vision alignment.
• Product Strategist:
  Translate business needs into creative software solutions, producing product briefs and vision documents that inspire action.
• Agile Project Leader:
  Lead cross-functional teams using agile methodologies—scrum, sprint planning, retros, backlog management.
• Vibe Coder:
  Rapidly prototype products up to ~75% completion using low-code/no-code tools (e.g., Lovable, Bubble, Airtable) and AI-assisted workflows.
• AI Innovator:
  Stay ahead of the curve on how generative AI can be embedded into apps, CRMs, and databases to deliver competitive advantages.
• Global Communicator:
  Manage stakeholders across time zones with clear, engaging communication in a fully remote environment.

What We're Looking For

• 7+ years in product management, project management, or similar roles—at least several years in a senior/lead role.
• Proven success delivering digital products (ideally in an agency or client-facing environment).
• Deep familiarity with
  generative AI
  , automation, CRM platforms, and database-driven products.
• Hands-on proficiency with no-code/low-code platforms and AI-powered prototyping.
• Strong grasp of agile frameworks and experience running distributed, cross-functional teams.
• Excellent communication skills—capable of simplifying complex ideas and keeping clients engaged and aligned.
• Technical fluency: comfortable discussing architecture, APIs, and trade-offs with engineers.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation

• 70,000 Rand per year (competitive salary, paid bi-weekly in USD)

Benefits

• Company contribution to medical aid (health insurance)
• Employer contribution to retirement / pension fund
• 20 days paid annual leave (in addition to South African public holidays)
• Paid sick leave in line with South African standards
• Annual performance bonus (5–15% of base salary)
• Home office stipend (internet, equipment, electricity)
• Flexible remote working hours
• Professional development budget (courses, certifications, conferences)
• Wellness perks (gym allowance, mental health resources)

Why Join Astra?

• Impact:
  Work directly with clients shaping the next wave of AI-powered software.
• Innovation:
  Use the latest tools in generative AI, automation, and no-code development.
• Flexibility:
  Fully remote, U.S.-based company serving clients worldwide.
• Culture:
  Agile, adaptive, and built for creative problem-solvers who want to own outcomes.

Empowering Africa's tomorrow, together…one story at a time.
With over 100 years of rich history and strongly positioned as a local bank with regional and international expertise, a career with our family offers the opportunity to be part of this exciting growth journey, to reset our future and shape our destiny as a proudly African group.

Job Summary
The Manager, AI and Decision Science is a strategic and operational role within the Human Capital (HC) function, responsible for building and embedding advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and emerging AI into Human Capital (HC) strategies, platforms, and workflows. The role ensures that AI capabilities deliver measurable impact on Human Capital and People driven decision-making including workforce planning, talent management, efficiency and employee experience. It is both a strategic enabler and operational integrator, designed to position the HC function as future-fit, data-driven, and digitally enabled.

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)

Absa Bank Limited is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. In compliance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile and add to the diversity of the Bank.
Absa Bank Limited reserves the right not to make an appointment to the post as advertised

Minimum Requirements

The AI Architect / Product Manager is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing AI-driven solutions and managing AI-related product features throughout their lifecycle. This role bridges the gap between technical development and product strategy, ensuring that AI initiatives align with business objectives while maintaining high performance, scalability, and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and implement the AI strategy aligned with the bank's objectives.
• Manage and mentor a team of data scientists, ensuring high-quality AI/ML model development.
• Oversee the development and deployment of AI/ML solutions for business problems.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify opportunities for AI-driven innovation.
• Monitor AI/ML model performance and ensure alignment with ethical and compliance standards.
• Promote data-driven decision-making across the organization.

• Bachelors or Masters degree in Data Science, Machine Learning, Computer Science, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in AI/ML model development and deployment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Proficiency in Python, R, and relevant ML frameworks.
• Experience with cloud-based AI solutions (AWS, Azure, or GCP).