As Digital Service Companies (DSCs) massively integrate artificial intelligence into their offerings, one function is emerging as a key lever for transformation: the AI ethics specialist.
More than a passing fad, this represents a true paradigm shift.

Why is this profession emerging now?

DSCs are evolving in a context of rapid technological acceleration.
Generative AI, predictive models, and decision-making algorithms are integrated at all levels: HR tools, recommendation systems, cybersecurity, smart data, etc.

However, this race for innovation does not come without risks: algorithmic biases, opacity of models, infringement of individual liberties, or technological dependence.
Clients in large corporations, administrations, and innovative companies like scale-ups are increasingly vigilant about the ethical impact of the proposed solutions.

A role between tech, strategy, and compliance

The AI ethics specialist in a DSC is much more than a "safeguard".
It is a strategic player, integrated upstream of projects, capable of:

• Auditing AI models (transparency, bias, traceability);

• Engaging with technical, legal, and commercial teams;

• Ensuring compliance with regulations (GDPR, AI Act, DSA…);

• Educating clients and partners on digital ethics issues;

• Promoting a responsible vision within the company.

This hybrid position demands a triple culture: technical, regulatory, and human.

What skills are needed for this strategic role?

• AI & Data Science Knowledge
  Understanding the architectures, limits, and biases of intelligent systems.

• Sharp Regulatory Knowledge
  In-depth understanding of GDPR, as well as the forthcoming European regulation on AI (AI Act), the Digital Services Act, etc.

• Ethical Analysis Capability
  Detecting gray areas, arbitrating between performance and responsibility, setting a framework.

• Leadership and Communication
  Ability to facilitate dialogue among technical teams, legal experts, clients, and executive management.

• Strategic Vision
  Positioning ethics as a business differentiator, a reassurance element, and a talent attraction lever.

An issue for the image and competitiveness of DSCs

Today, the DSCs that succeed are not just those that code quickly.
They are those that reassure, anticipate societal expectations, and build sustainable innovation.

Client companies demand more transparency, employees want meaning in their work, and investors are increasingly incorporating ESG criteria into their decisions.
In this context, AI ethics is no longer an afterthought, it is a strategic competence.

A new role in the organizational chart?

Some DSCs choose to integrate these skills into their legal departments, while others create an independent position linked to strategy or innovation.
Consulting firms are beginning to structure "AI Ethics" units to support their clients.
The market is starting to organize. What is certain: this role is going to become indispensable.

What this says about the recruitment market

As an executive search firm, at Laroze Partners, we are already observing this trend:

• New positions are emerging, bridging CSR, tech, and legal.

• Companies are looking for hybrid profiles, often rare, and often currently employed.

• The subject is becoming a priority in executive management, no longer just a technical annex.

Conclusion

The AI ethics specialist is establishing themselves as a new pillar for DSCs and tech companies.
They embody a growing demand for regulation, transparency, and responsibility in tech.
This is a profession for the future. And a lever for attractiveness for organizations that dare to structure this role today.

Thomas Rozier
President – Laroze Partners Executive Search

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