Lead Data Scientist

SUMMARY:
Lead the future of data-driven decision making within one of South Africa’s largest and most complex consumer environments. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Data Scientist to step into a leadership role, driving advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI initiatives while managing a team of talented junior Data Scientists. The successful candidate will combine deep technical expertise with exceptional communication skills, translating complex analytical concepts into meaningful business insights that influence strategic decisions at executive level.

POSITION INFO:
Our client is a market-leading consumer-focused organisation with a strong investment in data, analytics, and artificial intelligence. They are seeking a Lead Data Scientist to spearhead the development and deployment of advanced analytical solutions that drive commercial performance, customer engagement, operational efficiency, and innovation across the business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 4 Junior Data Scientists
• Drive the design, development, and deployment of advanced analytics and machine learning solutions
• Develop predictive, prescriptive, and forecasting models to support strategic business initiatives
• Apply statistical techniques including linear regression, logistic regression, clustering, classification, and time-series forecasting
• resent complex technical concepts and model outputs to non-technical stakeholders in clear, actionable terms
• Partner with business units to identify opportunities for data-driven decision making
• Collaborate with Data Engineering and Technology teams to ensure robust data infrastructure and model deployment
• Establish best practices for data science, model governance, and analytical delivery
  Evaluate model performance and continuously improve analytical solutions
• Support the adoption and implementation of AI and advanced analytics across the organisation

• Honours Degree or higher in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Actuarial Science, or a related quantitative field
• Master's Degree advantageous

• Minimum 4 years' experience in Data Science, Machine Learning, Advanced Analytics, or a related field
• Proven experience leading, mentoring, or managing Data Science teams
• Experience working with large-scale datasets and cloud-based analytical environments
• Strong track record of delivering business-impacting analytics solutions
• Experience engaging with senior stakeholders and executive leadership teams

• Advanced proficiency in Python and SQL
• Strong understanding of machine learning, predictive modelling, and statistical analysis
• Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP
• Knowledge of MLOps and model deployment practices advantageous
• Experience with data visualisation tools such as Power BI or Tableau
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Strong commercial acumen and problem-solving capability
• Ability to simplify highly technical concepts for non-technical audiences

• Actuarial: Life, Short-Term, Health, Pensions, and Quantitative
• Data & Analytics: Data Scientists, Data Analysts (Python, R, SQL, Machine Learning)
• Risk: Credit Risk, Market Risk, Model Risk, and Operational Risk Analysts
• Pricing: Specialists in Insurance and Financial Products
• AI & Machine Learning: ML Ops, NLP, Predictive Modelling Data Scientists
• Quantitative: Experts across Banking, Insurance, and FinTech