PPS Opens Applications for Digital Learning Practice Lead in Gauteng as AI Skills Drive the Future of Financial Services

The demand for professionals who can combine learning, technology, and artificial intelligence continues to grow as organisations modernise their workforces. Responding to this shift, the Professional Provident Society (PPS) has opened applications for a Practice Lead: Digital Learning, offering experienced learning and development specialists an opportunity to shape digital capability within one of South Africa’s leading financial services organisations.

The permanent position is based in Parktown, Gauteng, with a hybrid working model that combines office and remote work. Reporting to the Chief Learning Officer within PPS Academy, the successful candidate will lead enterprise-wide digital learning initiatives, oversee AI capability programmes, and develop innovative strategies that prepare employees for the future of work.

Applications close on 30 July 2026, making this an opportunity for qualified professionals seeking to advance their careers in digital transformation, organisational learning, and leadership.

A Leadership Opportunity at the Intersection of Learning and Technology

Across South Africa’s financial services industry, organisations are investing heavily in digital skills to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven economy. Artificial intelligence, cloud collaboration tools, automation, and data-driven decision-making are changing how businesses operate, creating demand for leaders capable of guiding workforce transformation.

PPS is seeking a Practice Lead who can develop and execute a comprehensive digital learning strategy that supports employees as workplace technologies continue to evolve. Rather than focusing solely on traditional training programmes, the role combines strategic leadership, digital capability development, AI adoption, and organisational change management.

The successful candidate will work closely with senior leadership to ensure learning initiatives align with broader business objectives while creating measurable improvements in employee capability and organisational performance.

About PPS

The Professional Provident Society (PPS) is a South African financial services provider serving graduate professionals through a range of financial solutions, including insurance, investments, healthcare, and retirement products.

Known for its member-focused business model, PPS continues to invest in innovation, leadership development, and digital transformation to improve customer experiences and strengthen internal capability.

Through PPS Academy, the organisation supports continuous professional development by providing employees with modern learning solutions that encourage lifelong learning and technological advancement.

The Practice Lead: Digital Learning position forms an important part of these long-term strategic initiatives.

Position Overview

Why This Vacancy Matters

Digital learning has become far more than simply delivering online training modules. Today’s organisations require integrated learning ecosystems that help employees adapt quickly to technological change while supporting business growth.

This vacancy reflects several important trends currently influencing the workplace:

• Increasing adoption of Artificial Intelligence tools.
• Growing investment in employee digital capability.
• Expansion of hybrid and remote working environments.
• Greater emphasis on continuous professional development.
• Increased demand for measurable learning outcomes.

For experienced learning professionals, this role provides an opportunity to influence organisational strategy while helping employees develop future-ready skills.

Driving Enterprise Digital Capability

One of the central responsibilities of the Practice Lead will be overseeing the organisation’s Digital Astuteness Index (DAI).

The DAI is designed to assess, monitor, and improve digital capability across the workforce by identifying current skills, measuring progress, and supporting targeted development initiatives.

Rather than offering generic training, the framework enables PPS to deliver learning interventions based on business priorities and employee needs.

By using measurable indicators and learning analytics, the organisation aims to ensure that investments in training produce meaningful improvements in productivity, collaboration, and innovation.

Supporting Responsible Artificial Intelligence Adoption

Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a standard workplace tool across many industries, including financial services.

At PPS, the successful candidate will play a key role in promoting responsible AI adoption through structured learning programmes that help employees understand how to use emerging technologies safely and effectively.

This includes developing learning content around tools such as Microsoft 365 Copilot, while encouraging ethical AI practices, cybersecurity awareness, and responsible data handling.

As organisations increasingly integrate AI into everyday workflows, professionals who can bridge technology and learning are expected to remain in high demand.

Leading Modern Learning Technologies

The Practice Lead will also oversee a range of digital learning platforms that support employee development across the organisation.

These include Learning Management Systems (LMS), Learning Experience Platforms (LxPs), and AI-assisted learning tools designed to provide flexible, personalised learning experiences.

Among the platforms mentioned in the vacancy are:

• Moodle
• Go1
• Joomla
• Kate AI Learning Assistant

Managing these systems involves ensuring employees can access relevant training, monitoring participation and learning outcomes, and continuously improving the user experience.

The role also includes supporting cybersecurity awareness initiatives and ensuring digital learning technologies align with organisational governance requirements.

More Than a Learning Role

Although the position focuses on learning and development, it is also a strategic leadership role.

The successful candidate will work alongside executives, HR leaders, and business stakeholders to develop learning strategies that contribute directly to organisational goals.

Responsibilities extend beyond training delivery to include:

• Advising leadership on digital capability development.
• Supporting enterprise transformation initiatives.
• Coaching managers on digital leadership.
• Using learning analytics to evaluate programme effectiveness.
• Driving innovation across the organisation.

This combination of strategic planning, technology leadership, and people development makes the role particularly attractive for experienced professionals seeking broader organisational influence.

Key Responsibilities of the Practice Lead: Digital Learning

The Practice Lead will be responsible for designing and implementing a digital learning strategy that supports PPS’s long-term business objectives while preparing employees for the future of work. The position requires a balance of strategic leadership, instructional design, learning technology expertise, and stakeholder engagement.

Developing the Digital Learning Strategy

A major focus of the role is building a learning culture that embraces continuous improvement and innovation. The successful candidate will:

• Lead the Digital Astuteness Index (DAI) framework across the organisation.
• Develop enterprise-wide digital capability programmes.
• Design structured learning pathways for employees at different career levels.
• Support organisation-wide digital transformation initiatives.
• Identify emerging digital skills required for the future workforce.
• Measure the effectiveness of learning programmes through data and analytics.

Rather than delivering isolated training sessions, the Practice Lead will help create a sustainable learning ecosystem that aligns employee development with organisational goals.

Driving Artificial Intelligence Capability

Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming part of everyday business operations, and PPS aims to ensure employees have the knowledge and confidence to use AI responsibly.

The successful candidate will help lead this transition by:

• Designing AI literacy programmes.
• Supporting the rollout of Microsoft 365 Copilot learning initiatives.
• Promoting ethical and responsible AI usage.
• Creating awareness around AI governance and security.
• Encouraging adoption of productivity-enhancing digital tools.

As AI continues to transform financial services, organisations are placing greater emphasis on helping employees understand both the opportunities and responsibilities associated with these technologies.

Managing Learning Technologies

Modern learning depends on reliable digital platforms that provide accessible, engaging, and measurable training experiences.

The Practice Lead will oversee various learning technologies, including:

• Learning Management Systems (LMS)
• Learning Experience Platforms (LxPs)
• Moodle
• Go1
• Joomla
• Kate AI Learning Assistant

Responsibilities include maintaining platform effectiveness, improving learner engagement, monitoring usage data, and identifying opportunities to enhance the digital learning experience.

Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement

This role extends beyond learning delivery. It requires close collaboration with senior leaders, HR professionals, managers, and business units to ensure learning initiatives support strategic priorities.

Key leadership responsibilities include:

• Advising executives on digital capability strategy.
• Working with HR to strengthen workforce development.
• Supporting governance structures for organisational learning.
• Coaching managers on digital leadership practices.
• Building strong partnerships with internal stakeholders.
• Evaluating programme outcomes through learning analytics.

Strong communication and relationship-building skills will be essential for success.

Capability Development Initiatives

The Practice Lead will also coordinate programmes that encourage continuous professional development across the organisation.

Examples include:

• Lunch & Learn knowledge-sharing sessions.
• Digital Citizen Bootcamps.
• Employee onboarding programmes.
• Innovation and collaboration workshops.
• Recognition through digital achievement badges.

These initiatives aim to create a workplace culture where employees continuously develop new skills and adapt to technological change.

Minimum Requirements

PPS is seeking candidates with a solid combination of academic qualifications and practical industry experience.

Educational Requirements

Applicants should possess a relevant tertiary qualification in one of the following fields:

• Learning and Development
• Human Resources
• Education
• Digital Technologies
• Organisational Development
• Or a closely related discipline

Equivalent qualifications with relevant professional experience may also be considered depending on the applicant’s background.

Experience Required

Candidates should have at least five years of professional experience in areas such as:

• Digital learning strategy
• Learning technology
• Capability development
• Instructional design
• Organisational learning

Applicants should also demonstrate experience working with:

• Enterprise learning programmes
• Learning Management Systems
• Learning Experience Platforms
• Adult learning methodologies
• AI-enabled workplace tools
• Stakeholder engagement
• Competency-based learning frameworks

Preferred Qualifications

While not mandatory, PPS indicates that the following will strengthen an application:

• A postgraduate qualification.
• Experience leading digital transformation projects.
• Practical experience implementing AI solutions.
• Previous employment within the financial services sector.
• Learning technology certifications.
• Change management qualifications.
• Agile delivery certifications.

These additional qualifications demonstrate a candidate’s ability to lead complex organisational initiatives in rapidly changing environments.

Skills That Can Make Candidates Stand Out

Technical expertise alone will not be enough. PPS is looking for professionals who combine leadership with strategic thinking and strong interpersonal skills.

Desired competencies include:

• Strategic leadership
• Digital learning design
• Artificial Intelligence awareness
• Project management
• Communication and presentation skills
• Stakeholder management
• Data analysis
• Coaching and mentoring
• Change management
• Problem-solving
• Innovation and continuous improvement

Professionals who can demonstrate measurable results from previous learning initiatives are likely to be particularly competitive.

Career Benefits

Joining PPS offers more than a permanent position. It provides an opportunity to influence how a leading financial services organisation prepares its workforce for future challenges.

Potential career benefits include:

• Leading enterprise-wide digital learning programmes.
• Influencing strategic organisational decisions.
• Working alongside executive leadership.
• Driving responsible AI adoption.
• Building expertise in emerging learning technologies.
• Contributing to workforce capability development.
• Expanding leadership experience within the financial services industry.

For professionals interested in learning innovation, digital transformation, and organisational development, the role offers exposure to projects with long-term business impact.

Is Salary Information Available?

The official vacancy advertisement does not disclose a salary package for this position.

As with many senior professional roles, remuneration is expected to be discussed during the recruitment process and may depend on qualifications, relevant experience, and internal remuneration policies.

Applicants are encouraged to focus on demonstrating measurable achievements, leadership experience, and digital learning expertise when preparing their applications.

Expert Perspective

The increasing integration of artificial intelligence, automation, and digital collaboration platforms has fundamentally changed workplace learning.

Financial institutions are investing in leaders who can help employees develop new capabilities while ensuring technology is adopted responsibly and effectively. Roles such as the PPS Practice Lead: Digital Learning reflect a broader industry trend toward continuous workforce development rather than one-time training programmes.

Professionals who possess expertise in digital learning strategy, instructional design, analytics, and organisational change are expected to remain in demand as businesses continue modernising their operations.

For experienced learning and development specialists, this vacancy represents an opportunity to contribute to enterprise-wide transformation while building leadership experience in one of South Africa’s established financial services organisations.

How to Apply for the PPS Practice Lead: Digital Learning Vacancy

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official PPS Careers Portal before the closing date. Ensure that all information provided is accurate and that the required supporting documents are uploaded as part of your application.

Position: Practice Lead: Digital Learning

Reference Number: PPS260626-3

Applicants should carefully read the job description and verify that they meet the minimum qualifications and experience requirements before applying.

Documents You May Need

While requirements may vary depending on the recruitment process, applicants are generally encouraged to prepare:

• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copies of relevant qualifications (if requested)
• A copy of a South African ID or valid work authorisation (where applicable)
• Professional certifications related to learning technologies or digital transformation (if applicable)
• Supporting documents requested during the online application process

Ensure your CV highlights achievements relevant to digital learning, leadership, organisational development, and learning technology implementation.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Competition for senior leadership positions can be high. Consider these practical tips before submitting your application:

• Tailor your CV to reflect the responsibilities listed in the vacancy.
• Highlight experience leading enterprise-wide digital learning projects.
• Demonstrate measurable outcomes from previous learning initiatives.
• Include examples of implementing Learning Management Systems (LMS) or Learning Experience Platforms (LxPs).
• Showcase experience with AI-enabled workplace tools such as Microsoft 365 Copilot or similar technologies.
• Emphasise leadership, stakeholder management, and project management achievements.
• Proofread your application to ensure it is professional and free from errors.

Why Digital Learning Leadership Matters

Organisations across South Africa are investing in workforce capability as digital transformation accelerates. The ability to design effective learning strategies, implement modern learning technologies, and promote responsible AI adoption has become a valuable leadership skill.

Within the financial services sector, continuous learning supports innovation, regulatory compliance, improved customer service, and operational efficiency. Professionals who can combine educational expertise with digital strategy are increasingly sought after to help organisations remain competitive in a rapidly changing business environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a graduate programme?

No. This is a permanent leadership position intended for experienced professionals. Applicants should have a minimum of five years’ relevant experience in digital learning, capability development, or related fields.

Where is the position located?

The role is based in Parktown, Gauteng, with a hybrid working model that combines office-based and remote work.

What qualifications are required?

Applicants should hold a relevant tertiary qualification in Learning and Development, Human Resources, Education, Digital Technologies, or another related discipline.

Is experience with Artificial Intelligence required?

Working knowledge of AI-enabled workplace technologies and digital learning solutions is expected. Experience leading AI adoption or digital transformation projects is considered an advantage.

Which learning platforms are mentioned?

The vacancy references several platforms, including Moodle, Go1, Joomla, Learning Experience Platforms (LxPs), Learning Management Systems (LMS), and the Kate AI Learning Assistant.

Does the advertisement mention a salary?

No. The official PPS vacancy does not specify a salary or remuneration package. Compensation is likely to be discussed during the recruitment process.

When is the closing date?

Applications are scheduled to close on 30 July 2026. Candidates should submit their applications before the deadline, as late submissions may not be considered.

Final Thoughts

The PPS Practice Lead: Digital Learning vacancy presents an opportunity for experienced professionals to contribute to the future of workplace learning within one of South Africa’s established financial services organisations.

The successful candidate will play a key role in developing digital capability, supporting responsible AI adoption, and leading learning innovation across the organisation. For professionals with expertise in digital learning strategy, organisational capability development, and learning technologies, this position offers the chance to influence enterprise-wide transformation while advancing their leadership careers.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the official vacancy carefully, prepare a tailored application, and submit all required documentation before the advertised closing date.

Editorial Policy

This article has been independently prepared for informational purposes using details published in the official PPS vacancy advertisement. It is intended to help job seekers understand the advertised opportunity and does not constitute recruitment on behalf of PPS. We are not affiliated with the Professional Provident Society.

Fact-Check Statement

All vacancy information, including the job title, location, employment type, experience requirements, and closing date, was verified against the official PPS recruitment advertisement available at the time of publication. Applicants should confirm the latest information through the official PPS Careers Portal before applying, as recruitment details may change.

Author Information

Author: Editorial Careers Desk

Our editorial team produces independently researched career, education, internship, learnership, and employment content using official employer announcements and reputable public sources. Articles are regularly reviewed for accuracy and updated when new information becomes available.

Last Updated: 10 July 2026

Sources and References

The information in this article is based on publicly available recruitment information from authoritative sources, including:

• Official PPS Careers Portal
• Professional Provident Society (PPS)
• Official PPS Practice Lead: Digital Learning Vacancy (Reference: PPS260626-3)

Applicants should rely on the official PPS Careers Portal for the most current vacancy details, eligibility requirements, and application instructions.