AI Solutions Lead

A solution-orientated design engineering company in the automotive industry is seeking an AI Solutions Lead to join their team in Durbanville. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of how the business operates and how complex workflows function, bringing structured problem-solving and hands-on thinking to the table. This position is business-driven and focused on operational strategy and innovation; this is not a software or coding position and is not suited to persons pursuing programming or data science.

• Walking the floor, engaging teams, and mapping workflows to determine where AI can unlock productivity, business insights, or automation and competitive advantages
• Prioritizing opportunities based on business impact, effort, and speed to value; developing clear, ROI-driven business cases that align with operational goals
• Scouting, evaluating, and collaborating with third-party AI vendors, domain experts, and technology providers
• Serve as the internal project lead, you don’t build the tech but you guide the vision, manage the outcomes, and ensure it solves the right problems
• Coordinating implementation efforts across business units and external partners, defining success metrics, monitoring progress, and removing roadblocks to execution
• Promoting innovation across the organization.

Key Requirements: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business, Engineering, Innovation, Operations, or a related field and 5+ years’ experience in operations, product development, innovation, continuous improvement, or business transformation. Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and manage external technology partners. Familiarity with AI/ML application in operations or manufacturing; experience working with technology vendors, solution providers, or consultants; and exposure to innovation frameworks like Lean, Six Sigma, Design Thinking, or Agile would be advantageous.

Additional Requirements: Fluent in English, with exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, capable of engaging confidently across technical and executive audiences; strong business instincts; a naturally curious, hands-on, and relentless problem-solving personality; and a willingness to travel internationally.