Innovation & Digital Transformation Manager

BIOVAC is one of the leading sterile vaccine manufacturers rooted in Africa, with our core purpose being to "protect life". We are looking to hire a hands-on, dynamic, passionate, confident, proactive and meticulous Innovation & Digital Transformation Manager to join a goal-oriented team

QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, Business or related field

• 5+ years experience in digital transformation, technology management or innovation roles

• Proven track record of leading data teams and delivering AI or advanced analytics projects

Preferred:

• Certification in AI, Cloud Architecture or Digital Strategy (e.g. Azure AI, AWS, Google Cloud)

• Experience in pharmaceutical, life sciences or FMCG sector

Experience needed to deliver the role seamlessly:

• Demonstrated ability to apply AI solutions in live operational contexts

• Experience managing and developing a data or digital team

• Deep understanding of AI/ML, large language models, automation and practical business application

• Deep understanding of Microsoft Azure, Power Platform, Microsoft Fabric or equivalent enterprise data stacks

• Strong project management and innovation lifecycle management experience

• Senior and executive level stakeholder management

Preferred:

• Knowledge of GxP, GMP or pharmaceutical regulatory compliance requirements

• Experience with AI vendor management, PoC pilots and innovation labs

• Understanding of POPIA compliance and information security in a regulated environment

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ROLE:

Core Technical Delivery:

People Management

• Lead, manage and develop the data and innovation team including Data Scientists, Analysts and Digital Project resources
• Set clear performance objectives and provide ongoing coaching, mentoring and feedback
• Build team capability in emerging technologies with emphasis on AI literacy and practical application
• Foster a culture of experimentation and continuous learning within the team
• Manage team capacity, resource allocation and succession planning

Innovation Strategy & AI Application

• Define and execute the organisation's innovation and AI roadmap aligned to the overall IT and business strategy
• Identify, evaluate and pilot new technologies including Generative AI, automation and predictive analytics
• Translate AI capabilities into practical, production-ready business solutions
• Lead proof-of-concept and proof-of-value engagements with technology partners
• Build business cases for technology investments and present to executive leadership

Digital Transformation Programme Management

• Drive the digital transformation programme across business units
• Identify and prioritise process automation, digitisation and optimisation opportunities
• Manage multiple innovation and digital projects simultaneously within agreed timelines and budgets
• Establish governance frameworks for innovation project selection and delivery
• Report on transformation progress, value delivered and lessons learned to executive leadership

Data Strategy & Governance

• Oversee the organisation's data projects and system including architecture, quality, governance and democratisation
• Hands-on delivery and involvement in data projects
• Ensure data assets are managed as a strategic resource aligned to business priorities
• Drive adoption of self-service analytics and data-driven decision-making
• Ensure compliance with POPIA, data privacy regulations and information security policies
• Partner with rest of the IT team on data infrastructure, cloud platforms and enterprise data stack

Technical Competencies:

• People leadership and talent development
• Performance management and coaching
• People leadership and talent development
• Performance management and coaching
• Change management in technology-driven environments
• Applied AI / ML: LLMs, generative AI, machine learning, and intelligent agents
• Innovation frameworks: Design Thinking, Lean Startup, Agile
• Strategic planning and business case development
• Programme and project management (Agile, PRINCE2 or equivalent)
• Enterprise data platforms: Microsoft Fabric, Azure, Power BI or equivalent
• Data engineering fundamentals (ETL/ELT): data extraction, transformation, and integration
• Data visualisation and storytelling: dashboards, reporting, and insight generation
• Data architecture and cloud platforms
• POPIA and data privacy compliance

Application Deadline: 24 April 2026

If you do not receive a response from us within three weeks after closing date please understand that your application was not successful.

Disclaimer:

Dear Applicant, we appreciate your interest in joining our organization. It is imperative for us that you understand how we handle your information. We are committed to ensuring the security and confidentiality of the information you provide. Your personal details will be collected for the sole purpose of the application process and will be used strictly for that purpose. By applying, you acknowledge and consent to the collection, use, and protection of your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy. If you have any inquiries or concerns, our Human Capital department is available to provide clarification. We look forward to reviewing your application.''

For detailed information on data handling, please review our privacy notice:

https://www.biovac.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/published_Biovac-Privacy-Notice-20220617-2306-en.pdf