Head of AI and Automation

About the role

The Central Bank of Kenya is seeking a senior leader to head its AI and Automation pillar. This role will shape strategy, drive delivery of AI and intelligent automation use cases, and ensure compliance with regulatory and ethical standards.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for Data Science, MLOps and Intelligent Automation functions.
• Drive AI and automation projects aligned with the Implementation Matrix priorities.
• Establish AI governance, model risk management and ethical AI frameworks.
• Lead AI proof‑of‑concept development and transition to production readiness.
• Build partnerships with universities, research institutions and technology vendors.
• Manage budget for AI research, development and deployment.

Required profile

• Minimum 10 years experience in AI, Machine Learning, Data Science or Intelligent Automation.
• At least 5 years leading design, development and operationalisation of enterprise AI solutions.
• 3+ years managing multidisciplinary technical teams.
• Proven experience in highly regulated environments such as central banking or financial services.

Required skills

• Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Natural Language Processing, Large Language Models, Generative AI, AI Agents, Retrieval‑Augmented Generation.
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA) platforms: Power Automate, UiPath, Automation Anywhere, Blue Prism.
• Cloud AI platforms: Azure AI, Azure Machine Learning, Azure OpenAI, Databricks, AWS AI/ML, Google AI.
• Experience with AI model validation, monitoring, explainability, security, privacy and compliance frameworks (ISO 42001, ISO 27001, NIST, EU AI Act).