Managing Executive: Big Data, Analytics & AI

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Role purpose:

The purpose of the Group Data, Analytics & AI team is to manage , shape, support, develop and scale Big Data, machine learning, robotic process automation and artificial intelligence with the aim of leveraging synergies between these areas to deliver measurable business benefit across all Vodacom Group markets. As the leader of this CoE, this role acts as a thought leader in the delivery Big Data, machine learning, robotic process automation (RPA) and conversational agent (Chatbot) solutions across the Vodacom Group, which includes South Africa , Egypt, Kenya , Ethiopia and our international operations in Mozambique, Tanzania, DRC and Lesotho. The role defines and owns the vision, strategy, policies and guidelines for Big Data and RPA/Chatbot solutions delivery and drives excellence in execution.

Your responsibilities will include:

1. Provide company-wide thought leadership on Big Data, machine learning, and automation solutions:

• Manage the Group Data, Analytics and AI team as a CoE leading, driving and delivering excellence in the delivery of automation and AI solutions to the business
• Deliver specialised expertise and best practice in the Big Data, robotic process automation and artificial intelligence domains in support of business strategy
• Provide thought leadership across the business to drive the adoption of world class practices in the fields of Big Data, AI, and process automation to deliver measurable business benefit

2. Define and deliver the Big Data and machine learning strategy:

• Define and own the Big Data strategy and roadmap for Vodacom Group
• Formulate the Vodacom analytics demand strategy, planning and prioritisation and own the relationship with the senior leadership of the various business units
• Work closely with the Business Intelligence team on demand planning, industrialisation and resource allocation
• Lead and build enterprise-wide Big Data analytics and machine learning capability to deliver commercial value through use case ideation and prioritisation
• Deliver value realisation (such as cost savings, incremental revenue, customer NPS improvements) through applied machine learning solutions
• Lead the data science teams responsible for developing key machine learning models and products to ensure execution against the Big Data strategy and roadmap

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3. Lead the delivery of robotic process automation and conversation agent solutions:

• Define the enterprise-wide automation strategy and ensure execution through a robust implementation framework and roadmap
• Drive automation and digitisation to achieve excellence and efficiency in all major operating processes, this includes the implementation of robotic process automation and Chatbot solutions, as well as the integration of machine learning solutions where relevant
• Engage multiple senior stakeholders across all functions of the business to ensure delivery of automation programmes and projects within agreed quality, time and budget
• Embed automation analytical and reporting capability and provide feedback to the Digital Steering Committee, chaired by the CEO.
• Build capability and provide support to all Vodacom markets with respect to digital process engineering and automation/AI ensuring alignment to global strategic priorities
• Lead and build capability in the team accountable for the delivery of automation solutions (RPA/Chatbot/machine learning)
• As CoE, ensure effective working with business units and Technology teams to deliver automation solutions in accordance with agile ways of working

4. Leadership:

• As a CoE, ensure the deployment of Big Data and automation resources to tribes/squads as required while retaining overall accountability for the people management activities of the teams
• Lead, motivate and develop teams, ensuring they have clarity of direction and support in prioritising demands.
• Coach, develop and performance manage people and identify key talent.
• Embody and embed the Vodacom Way behaviours.
• Create a positive environment of change readiness and excellence.
• Work across the Group to deliver best practice locally

The ideal candidate for this role will have:

• Bachelors or Masters Degree (or equivalent) in fields like Mathematics, Statistics, Informatics, Computer Science or Engineering
• At least 12 to 15 years experience in a commercial environment (marketing/CVM/Big Data) with a proven track record using advanced analytics to derive business benefit
• Experience in the delivery of AI, machine learning, robotic process automation and Chatbot solutions
• Previous work experience in telecoms/technology industries

Core competencies, knowledge and experience:

• Commercial Acumen: Commercial mindset with extensive experience and a proven track record in senior roles making critical commercial decisions to deliver business benefit
• Applied machine learning: Proven ability to lead teams in machine learning and the deployment and delivery of models and algorithms from large volumes of structured and/or unstructured data in a commercial environment
• Big Data technology: Strong knowledge of Big Data technology (e.g. Hadoop, Kafka, Tableau, SAS, GIS)
• Automation and artificial intelligence: Thorough knowledge of digital processes and technologies (machine learning, robotic process engineering, Chatbot solutions) and leveraging these to deliver commercial benefits
• Data analytics: A strong understanding of data, information and complex analytics within a commercial environment
• Leadership: Strong personal impact and ability to present to senior leaders (CEO, Business Unit Heads etc). Ability to communicate complex subjects in a simple way.
• Agile ways of working: knowledge agile methodology and ways of working

Closing date for Applications: 22 July 2024.

The base location for this role is, Vodacom Midrand Campus.

The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.
Vodacom is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values diversity & inclusion.