At iOCO, we’re shaping the future through intelligent, data-driven innovation. We’re seeking a Specialist AI Architect / Product Manager to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) solutions.

This role requires a seasoned professional who can balance technical excellence, strategic insight, and business acumen, driving the successful delivery of scalable, secure, and ethical AI systems that align with our clients’ transformation objectives.

What you'll do:

• Strategy and Planning:

  • Develop and implement AI strategies that align with iOCO and client business objectives.

  • Identify opportunities for AI adoption and create strategic roadmaps for project execution.

  • Lead AI governance and maturity assessments to ensure sustainable and ethical adoption of AI technologies.

• Solution Design:

  • Design AI and machine learning models to address specific, high-impact business challenges.

  • Select appropriate algorithms, frameworks, and tools for AI development.

  • Create architecture diagrams, reference models, and detailed design documentation for AI systems.

• Data Management:

  • Collaborate with data architects and engineers to ensure data availability, quality, and governance.

  • Design and optimize data pipelines for collection, transformation, and storage of AI-relevant data.

  • Ensure compliance with data privacy and ethical AI principles across all pipelines.

• Model Development and Deployment:

  • Oversee the training, testing, and evaluation of AI and ML models.

  • Implement best practices for model deployment, monitoring, and lifecycle management.

  • Ensure AI systems are scalable, reliable, and production-ready.

• Integration:

  • Integrate AI solutions into existing systems, applications, and business workflows.

  • Design APIs and interfaces for seamless interaction between AI components and enterprise systems.

  • Collaborate with system architects to ensure end-to-end alignment and interoperability.

• Performance Optimization:

  • Continuously monitor and optimize AI performance using techniques like hyperparameter tuning, model compression, and inference acceleration.

  • Ensure high availability and minimal latency of AI-driven services.

• Security and Compliance:

  • Implement and uphold data privacy, security, and ethical AI standards.

  • Protect AI systems from vulnerabilities and adversarial attacks.

  • Ensure compliance with industry regulations (e.g., POPIA, GDPR, ISO standards).

• Collaboration and Communication:

  • Partner with data scientists, engineers, business analysts, and stakeholders to deliver impactful AI solutions.

  • Translate complex AI concepts into clear, actionable insights for non-technical audiences.

  • Promote AI literacy and awareness across business units.

• Emerging Technologies and Innovation:

  • Stay abreast of the latest AI, ML, and deep learning trends and technologies.

  • Evaluate new tools, frameworks, and methodologies for potential adoption.

  • Drive AI innovation initiatives within iOCO and client environments.

Your Expertise:

• Minimum of 6 years’ experience in an AI Architect or AI Product Manager role.

• Proven track record in AI strategy, architecture design, and enterprise AI implementation.

• Hands-on experience with machine learning frameworks, MLOps, and cloud-based AI platforms.

• Deep understanding of data governance, analytics pipelines, and enterprise system integration.

• Technical Competencies:

  • Expertise with AI/ML tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, Azure AI, AWS SageMaker, or Google Vertex AI.

  • Strong knowledge of data engineering, DevOps for AI (MLOps), and API architecture.

  • Proficiency in Python, R, or similar languages.

  • Familiarity with containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) for scalable AI deployments.

Qualifications:

• NQF Level 6 or higher tertiary qualification in Information Communication Technology (ICT) or related field (e.g., Computer Science, Information Systems, or Data Science).

• Cloud Certification (Azure AI, AWS, or Google Cloud) is essential.

Key Attributes for Success:

• Strategic thinker with the ability to bridge business goals and AI technology.

• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.

• Deep curiosity and passion for innovation and emerging AI technologies.

• Excellent communication and documentation abilities.

• Proven ability to deliver enterprise-grade AI solutions under pressure.