Management jobs in South Africa

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Senior Project Manager to lead our Data Intelligence and Advanced Analytics Center, specializing in Advanced Analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Data Science initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of program and project management, a deep understanding of both business and technical domains, and extensive experience working with multiple government entities on data projects. This role requires expertise in agile methodologies, change management, and fostering collaboration across diverse stakeholders to ensure project alignment and success.

Qualifications

Educational Background:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Science, Data Analytics, Business Intelligence, Information Management, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related field.

Professional Experience

• 10+ years of program and project management experience with a focus on Advanced Analytics, AI, or Data Science initiatives.
• Proven expertise in managing and leading projects involving multiple government entities, from inception through to successful go-live.
• Demonstrated success in collaborating with stakeholders at various organizational levels.
• Extensive experience in using agile methodologies for successful project implementations.

Technical And Business Expertise

• Strong knowledge of data analytics, machine learning, AI technologies, and strategic planning.
• Familiarity with SQL, analytical and relational data models, and programming languages such as Python, R, or Java.
• Proficiency in querying data stores and integrating data from various sources.
• Knowledge of advanced data analytics, including statistics, machine learning, predictive analytics, and data modeling.

Leadership And Communication Skills

• Proven ability to inspire, lead, and manage cross-functional teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, particularly the ability to synthesize complex issues into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to impact and influence through leadership and consensus building across various stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work in ambiguous situations and across organizational boundaries.

Certifications

• PMP, PRINCE2, Certified Scrum Master (CSM), or certifications in relevant technologies (e.g., AWS, Azure, Python) are highly desirable.
• Certification in change management (e.g., Prosci, ACMP) is a plus.

Desired candidate profile

• Project Planning and Strategy:

  • Develop Project Plans: Create detailed project plans, including timelines, milestones, budget estimates, resource allocation, and deliverables.
  • Define Scope: Work with stakeholders to define the project scope, goals, and objectives. Ensure that the project aligns with organizational strategies and business priorities.
  • Risk Management: Identify potential risks and issues in the project early on, and develop strategies to mitigate them.
  • Resource Planning: Allocate the appropriate resources (human, technical, financial) and ensure team members have the necessary support.

• Project Execution and Delivery:

  • Monitor Project Progress: Track the project’s progress against the planned timeline and milestones, and ensure timely completion of tasks.
  • Lead Project Teams: Supervise and manage cross-functional teams, ensuring they are motivated, equipped, and working efficiently.
  • Coordinate with Stakeholders: Regularly update stakeholders on project progress, deliverables, and issues. Maintain clear lines of communication with executives, clients, and other teams.
  • Manage Budget: Ensure the project is delivered within budget by tracking expenditures and controlling costs throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Quality Control: Ensure the project's output meets the required quality standards, both in terms of functionality and performance.

• Risk and Issue Management:

  • Identify and Address Risks: Continuously monitor for potential risks, issues, and challenges. Take proactive steps to mitigate them and minimize their impact on the project.
  • Problem-Solving: Provide solutions to issues as they arise and adjust project plans accordingly to keep the project on track.

• Stakeholder and Client Management:

  • Manage Stakeholder Expectations: Work closely with internal and external stakeholders to manage expectations, ensure alignment, and handle changes in scope, budget, or timeline.
  • Client Interaction: Maintain strong relationships with clients and key business partners to ensure satisfaction and maintain long-term relationships.
  • Reporting: Deliver regular project status reports, including performance metrics, risks, and other important details to stakeholders.

• Project Closure and Evaluation:

  • Closure: Once the project is complete, ensure proper closure by reviewing the project deliverables and confirming that all goals have been met.
  • Post-Project Evaluation: Conduct post-project evaluations, such as project reviews and retrospectives, to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement in future projects.
  • Documentation: Ensure all project documentation, reports, and artifacts are completed and stored for future reference.