A distribution business on the East Rand is building something most companies are still only talking about, a dedicated AI and automation function, created from scratch, with a direct line to the Managing Director and a clear mandate to change how the business operates.
This is not a support role buried in IT. It is a builder's role. The successful candidate will design and deploy custom AI-driven solutions that strip out repetitive manual work and give senior management their time back. Sales analysis is the starting point, with a structured rollout across the rest of the business to follow.
What's in it for you
A rare opportunity to own an entire AI function from day one with no legacy systems or bureaucracy to navigate.
Direct access to and reporting line with the Managing Director, meaning decisions get made fast.
A defined roadmap with clear milestones, so the impact of the work is measurable and visible.
The tools are already in place, including Claude and ChatGPT licences, with room to recommend what else is worth adopting.
A permanent, full-time position in a business with real operational scale across distribution.
Minimum Requirements
3 or more years of hands-on experience in automation, data analysis, AI solution development or a closely related technical role.
Proven experience building solutions using LLMs and APIs such as Claude, OpenAI or similar. This is the most critical requirement and must be demonstrable.
Python or equivalent scripting ability, combined with strong Excel and data analysis skills.
Experience extracting and transforming data from accounting or ERP systems such as Pastel or similar platforms.
Solid understanding of data security, access control and POPIA compliance.
Strong communication skills with the ability to train non-technical staff and manage change effectively.
A tertiary qualification in IT, data, engineering or a related field, or equivalent proven experience.
Own transport and willingness to work full-time on site.
Experience with Sage Pastel Partner is advantageous.
A background in sales or financial analysis is advantageous.
Previous experience introducing AI into a business from the ground up is advantageous.
Key Responsibilities
Design, build, test and deploy custom AI-driven solutions beginning with sales analysis, then rolling out across additional departments in a structured sequence.
Automate reporting, data preparation and other repetitive management tasks that currently consume senior leadership time.
Connect solutions to Pastel Partner data and Excel using available methods including exports, ODBC or other suitable approaches.
Write a clear technical specification for each solution and test thoroughly for accuracy and security before going live.
Run reasonability checks on AI outputs to ensure results are validated before being relied upon.
Monitor, support and continuously improve solutions once deployed.
Assess staff readiness for AI adoption, manage resistance and lead onboarding and training across the business.
Create practical user guides and documentation for all tools deployed.
Draft and maintain an AI and data-use policy for Managing Director approval, covering data security and POPIA requirements.
Report regularly to the Managing Director on time saved, errors reduced and adoption progress.
Stay current with emerging AI tools and best practice and make recommendations on what is worth implementing.
Collaborate with the external IT provider where hardware or infrastructure is involved.