Why Optus?

We are a business fuelled by optimism, unwavering customer focus and a team of amazing people.

And that’s where we come in…. “the amazing people” part!

We don’t sit back and wait for the future to happen, we are out there crafting our own path through new technology, innovation, and investment. We are truly a challenger brand, with challenger spirit.

The Director of AI and Data Governance Enablement is a critical leadership role responsible for implementing strategies, policies, and best approach across Optus for AI and Data Governance. This role focuses on developing and implementing governance frameworks and programs to ensure the ethical use of AI systems and the efficient management of data assets, encouraging responsible AI adoption.

The role requires a leader with a deep understanding of AI and data governance principles, as well as experience leading enterprise-wide initiatives in sophisticated environments. Strong critical thinking, communication, and stakeholder leadership skills, along with technical expertise in AI/ML development and data management, are important for success in this position.

Your day to day will consist of...

• Lead the integration of AI governance principles with existing data governance frameworks.
• Develop and implement future-proof AI and data governance enablement frameworks to ensure fair, transparent, and accountable AI systems, including ethical principles; risk management processes; model governance standards; and transparency guidelines.
• Design and deliver literacy training programs to educate and empower teams across all levels on data governance principles and responsible AI practices.
• Build strong relationships with Data Owners, Data Stewards, AI stakeholders, IT, legal, compliance, and business units to ensure alignment and support business initiatives.
• Supervise and report on metrics, risks, and issues, advancing concerns and proposed mitigation strategies to executives.
• Provide expert guidance and support to business partners on data governance and AI ethics issues.
• Conduct AI ethics reviews and bias audits to identify and mitigate potential risks.
• Stay ahead of technology and market trends and represent the organisation in external forums, partnerships, and industry consortia related to AI and data governance.

What makes you perfect for the role?

• Extensive leadership experience in data and AI governance, with expertise in implementing Data Governance and AI Operating Models, promoting data and AI policies (e.g., data classification and retention), and driving governance initiatives in fast-paced, data-driven environments.
• Solid understanding of data and AI governance principles, frameworks, and methodologies
• Project management and program execution skills, with the ability to deliver results in a sophisticated, multi-stakeholder environment.
• Demonstrable experience in implementing data governance programs, improving data literacy, and managing data ownership and policies.
• Solid understanding of responsible AI principles, AI/ML model development, and data quality and protection, with a focus on compliance and risk management.
• Superb communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with business partners at all levels.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to inspire change across diverse groups.
• Experience leading engagements with partners to understand strategic challenges and proactively recommend data governance and AI strategies to tackle complex program.

Optus is a place where we let you do you. We offer a range of benefits including:

• 3 days in the office, 2 days remote – with flexible hours to suit!
• Inclusive paid parental leave, up to 14 weeks for the primary care giver
• All Optus employees have access to resources, webinars and support via the ‘Parents at Work portal’
• Own your own growth by accessing an extensive online and facilitator led learning catalogue – even earn an MBA micro-credential via OptusU (University)
• Connect at work through one of our employee-led volunteer groups: Culture Connect, Elevate Women, Disability Network, Express Yourself (LGBTQIA+), United Veterans and Yarn Network
• Vibrant campus life, variety of facilities including restaurants, cafes, gymnasium, GP, and post office.
• Two easy travel options to Sydney Campus: Optus bus from Sydney CBD (20min travel time) and Macquarie University Metro Station (every 6-8 minutes); morning and afternoon!

Curious about our culture? Go behind the scenes with our people by searching #OptusLife on LinkedIn!

At Optus, we are strengthened by others and that means valuing diversity and saying ‘yes’ to embracing individual differences. We are committed to ensuring that our application process provides an equal employment opportunity to all job seekers, including individuals from diverse gender, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, individuals with a disability, individuals identifying as being part of the LGBTQIA+ community, individuals who may have served in the armed forces or who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. If you require any adjustments or accessibility support to participate fairly and equitably in the recruitment process, please email AccessibleRecruitment@optus.com.au along with your preferred method of contact and we will be in touch.

For more information on Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at Optus, please visit https://www.optus.com.au/about/inclusion-diversity.

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