AI Implementation & Governance Consultant

AI Implementation & Governance ConsultantWe are implementing a comprehensive AI Strategy & Code of Responsibility that balances operational efficiency with our regenerative values, creative craft, and B Corp commitments. We need an experienced consultant to execute this strategy; not write more theory, but ship practical outcomes that our team can own and operate independently.You'll work across leadership, creative, operations, and sustainability teams to implement governance frameworks, operational quick wins, environmental accountability mechanisms, and training programmes. This role requires someone who can facilitate workshops with creative teams, translate AI risks into clear language, and navigate the tension between efficiency and craft.This is a delivery role. We have the strategy. We need someone who can operationalize it on time and within our SME reality.Key Responsibilities1. AI Governance & Policy ImplementationOperationalize our AI Code of Responsibility and internal governance frameworkIssue and embed interim AI usage guidelines (Week 1) to eliminate \"Shadow AI\" risksDefine clear decision rights, escalation paths, and accountability owners for AI decisionsEnsure alignment with GDPR and EU AI Act requirements, appropriately scaled for a 35-person teamEstablish incident reporting pathways and simple governance structures (AI Steering Group, departmental champions)Facilitate workshops with Creative, Comms, and Leadership to define and document explicit no-AI boundariesEnsure AI adoption enhances efficiency without diluting craft, brand voice, artisan relationships, or human creativityBalance aspiration with practical application across 3 stakeholder review cycles3. Operational AI Quick Wins (Strategic Roadmapping)Develop implementation-ready roadmaps for 3–4 priority use cases:Shipping cost automation (Shopify integration)Upholstery fabric calculatorsEvaluate vendor solutions vs DIY implementation options with cost-benefit analysisProvide vendor shortlists, cost estimates, technical prerequisites, and sequencing recommendationsNote: This role delivers strategic roadmaps, not technical implementation (though technical fluency is essential)4. Environmental & Ethical AccountabilityConduct an environmental impact assessment of all AI tools in use (energy, water, carbon footprint)Implement a traffic-light classification system (Green/Amber/Red) aligned with our regenerative missionAssess fairness, non-discrimination, and data privacy risks across AI-enabled workflowsMap personal/confidential data flows and GDPR compliance requirementsIdentify compensating controls where high-value tools carry elevated risk5. Training & Change EnablementDesign and deliver 90-minute foundation AI training workshopDevelop reusable training materials: role-based guides (Creative, Commercial, Ops, Leadership), onboarding checklists, FAQ documentationCreate AI Decision Framework: simple, one-page tool for evaluating future AI investmentsEquip teams to manage AI responsibly without ongoing consultant dependency6. Stakeholder Management & CommunicationAct as a trusted partner to the CEO, Nature Director (sustainability lead), and department headsTranslate complex AI, ethical, and regulatory concepts into accessible language for non-technical, creative teamsFacilitate co‑creation sessions that respect creative expertise and lived experienceNavigate the cultural nuances of working with craft‑led, values‑driven organizationsRequirements8+ years in AI implementation, digital transformation, or technology governance rolesProven track record operationalising AI policies, ethical frameworks, or governance structures (not just writing them)Deep understanding of generative AI risks: IP exposure, brand dilution, bias/fairness, environmental impact, data privacyExperience working with non-technical stakeholders , particularly creative, mission-driven, or values‑led teamsPractical knowledge of GDPR and emerging AI regulation (EU/UK AI Act preferred)Excellent facilitation skills : ability to run workshops that surface nuanced boundaries and build consensusStrong documentation and communication : ability to translate complexity into clear, actionable guidanceDelivery orientation : you ship outcomes, not decksHighly DesirableExperience with SMEs, B Corps, or regenerative/sustainable businessesExposure to environmental impact assessment or sustainability frameworks applied to technologyFamiliarity with e-commerce, creative industries, luxury/premium brands , or craft‑led organisationsExperience designing training programmes or capability‑building initiatives that enable independenceUnderstanding of AI Act risk classification (high-risk, limited-risk, minimal-risk systems)Working Style We ValuePractical and grounded : You focus on what works in an SME context, not enterprise‑grade complexityValues‑driven without being dogmatic : You respect our regenerative mission and creative integrity, but balance it with operational pragmatismComforta