Chief Information Analyst

University of Pretoria; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Pretoria invites applications for the Chief Information Analyst (Re-advert) within the Department of Institutional Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation. This senior role leads analytics strategy and BI development to support executive decisions.

You will design predictive models, govern data quality, and collaborate across faculties to advance AI-assisted analytics, cloud platforms, and data governance in line with POPIA.

Qualifications

• Honours degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science or related field.
• 5 years’ experience in SQL Server, ETL, data modelling and dashboard development.
• Proven ability to design data visualisations and prescriptive reports for executive audiences.
• Experience managing data systems, integrations, and reporting automation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of advanced analytics models and dashboards using BI tools (Power BI, Tableau) to support decision-making.
• Utilise SQL, Python, or R for advanced data analysis, automation, and insights for forecasting and strategy.
• Develop and optimise BI, data warehousing, and analytics systems across university data sources.
• Collaborate with BI teams to implement AI-assisted automation, cloud analytics, and data governance.

Skills

SQL

ETL

Dashboard development

Data modelling

Data visualisation

Python

R

Agile

Project management

Education

Honours degree

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

SQL Server

Python

Azure cloud

Job description

UP Professional and Support

DEPARTMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL PLANNING, MONITORING, AND EVALUATION

CHIEF INFORMATION ANALYST (RE-ADVERT)

PEROMNES POST LEVEL 6

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of advanced, predictive, and prescriptive analytics models and dashboards using BI tools such as Power BI, Tableau, or equivalent to support executive and operational decision-making;
• Utilise SQL, Python, or R to conduct advanced data analysis, automate reporting processes, identify trends and patterns, and generate actionable insights for institutional forecasting, risk analysis, and strategy execution;
• Develop, maintain, integrate, and optimise BI, data warehousing, and analytics systems, including data from PeopleSoft, HEMIS, HR, Finance, and academic systems, to support a secure, scalable, and unified analytics environment;
• Collaborate with the Business Intelligence teams across the University to implement AI-assisted automation, cloud-based analytics, and robust controls for data quality, integrity, access, security, and system availability in line with POPIA and institutional IT governance requirements;
• Support institutional, external audit, and DHET compliance requirements by ensuring that data processes are accurate, traceable, well documented, and aligned with applicable governance and reporting standards;
• Provide technical and advisory support to faculties and administrative units, mentor junior analysts, strengthen institutional data literacy and analytical capacity, and foster collaborative relationships with national and international peers to share best practices in analytics and intelligence systems.

Minimum Requirements

• An Honours degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science or a related field;
• A total of 5 years’ experience in the following:
• Demonstrated experience in SQL Server, ETL processes, data modelling, and dashboard development;
• Proven ability to design data visualisations and prescriptive reports for executive and operational audiences;
• Demonstrated ability to manage data systems, integrations, and reporting automation within complex organisations.

Required Competencies (skills, Knowledge And Behavioural Attributes)

• Data analytics, BI systems, and predictive modelling;
• Database management, SQL programming, and automation;
• Data governance, information security, and POPIA compliance;
• Higher education policy and DHET reporting frameworks;
• SQL Server, Power BI, and data warehousing design;
• Programming in Python, R, or equivalent analytics tools;
• Data visualisation and storytelling for strategic insight;
• ETL pipeline development and automation;
• Project management and Agile workflow coordination;
• System integration and interoperability management;
• Analytical and systems thinking with an innovation mindset;
• Ability to work independently and translate technical outputs into institutional strategy;
• Strong communication, report writing, and presentation skills for diverse audiences;
• Ethical and responsible data handling, maintaining compliance and transparency;
• Collaborative and mentoring approach to developing team capacity and institutional data literacy;
• Resilient, adaptive, and solution-oriented in managing multiple priorities.

Added Advantages And Preferences

• A Master’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science or a related field;
• Experience in higher education or large-scale institutional data environments;
• Exposure to AI-assisted analytics, cloud platforms (Azure, Google Cloud, AWS), and API integrations;
• Experience in project management or Agile development environments;
• MS SQL Server and Power BI Certification;
• Familiarity with DHET, CHE, NQF, NQSF, HEQSF, and POPIA frameworks;
• Certification in data governance, cloud analytics, or AI-based analytics tools;
• Strong data storytelling and stakeholders’ communication skills.

CLOSING DATE: 2 OCTOBER 2026

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES: Ms MJ Molema, Tel: [phone], [e-mail] for application-related enquiries.

Dr Hossein Masoumi Karakani, [e-mail] for post related content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 December 2026, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply.

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.