Data Architect

Saratoga; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A consulting firm in Cape Town is seeking a Data Architect to lead a data transformation program. The role involves designing scalable data architectures and managing compliance risks in the financial services sector. Ideal candidates will have 5-7 years of relevant experience, cloud certifications, and strong communication skills. This hybrid position requires on-site presence 2–3 days a week.

Benefits

Flexible work arrangements

Professional growth opportunities

Collaboration on impactful projects

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of relevant IT experience, ideally in data solutioning and architecture.
• Strong financial services experience, preferably in insurance.
• Cloud certifications (Azure, AWS, or equivalent) highly desirable.
• Exposure to data architecture frameworks such as DAMA DMBOK and TOGAF.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning of data architecture strategies aligned to key initiatives.
• Design and document scalable data architectures.
• Monitor data architecture-related risks and ensure compliance.

Skills

Data architecture experience

Financial services knowledge

Strong communication skills

Adaptability to new tools

Education

Relevant IT experience (5-7 years)

Tools

Hadoop

Spark

Redshift

Job description

Join Us as a Data Architect

We’re looking for an experienced Data Architect to play a key role in a large-scale data transformation programme for one of our key clients.

This is a hybrid position based in Cape Town, requiring 2–3 days onsite per week.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Data Solution Planning: Lead and contribute to the planning of data architecture strategies aligned to key data solution initiatives.

• Architecture Capability Building: Support and participate in the development and enhancement of the organisation’s data architecture capability.

• Data Architecture & Design: Design and document robust, scalable data architectures that meet business and technical requirements.

• Risk & Compliance Management: Identify, assess, and manage data architecture-related risks while ensuring compliance with relevant data policies, regulations, and governance standards.

• Governance & Quality Assurance: Provide oversight and governance for the design and implementation of data solutions, ensuring alignment with architecture principles and best practices.

• Standards & Best Practices: Promote the adoption of architecture standards, guardrails, and blueprints across data solution designs.

What We’re Looking For

Qualifications & Experience:

• 5–7 years of relevant IT experience, ideally in data solutioning and architecture.

• Strong financial services experience (preferably in insurance).

• Cloud certifications (Azure, AWS, or equivalent) highly desirable.

• Exposure to data architecture frameworks such as DAMA DMBOK and TOGAF (certification an advantage).

• Tooling experience: familiarity with technologies like Hadoop, Spark, Redshift, and other modern data tools. Direct experience in all is not required, but candidates must demonstrate adaptability to learn similar platforms quickly.

Key Competencies:

• Strong communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate across technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Ability to work effectively in a complex enterprise environment with multiple stakeholders.

• Comfortable collaborating with business architects and programme directors on a high-profile initiative.

• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills to navigate the organisational dynamics.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a team that values collaboration, innovation, and excellence.

• Work on impactful projects that shape the future of business and society.

• Gain exposure to asset management systems and enterprise-level solutions.

• Develop professionally in an environment that champions growth and learning.

• Enjoy the flexibility and responsiveness of a dynamic workplace.

Who we are

Saratoga is a company filled with like-minded individuals who deliver quality solution delivery services and are motivated to make a positive impact in the world through technology.

We partner with our global client base to deliver innovative business and technology solutions to market fast, cost-effectively and ethically.

As a values-driven organisation, our values of People Matter, Mutual Respect and Personal Excellence guide us in how we work with our clients, business partners and each otherWe offer our people a well-rounded work experience. From training, career development and tech talks to help our staff develop their skills and knowledge. To virtual and in-person socials to give our teams the opportunities to connect, and reward and recognition programmes to celebrate the awesome work and achievements of our people.

At Saratoga, we prioritise flexibility in our work arrangements, embracing both remote and hybrid models to cater to our staff's preferences. However, as a consulting firm, there are instances when on-site presence at the client's location becomes essential for project success and client collaboration.

We strive to provide innovative solutions and inspire each other to be the best we can be. If you’re looking to join an organisation where people really do matter, take a look at our open roles: www.saratoga.co.za/careers/

Employment Equity requirement

Employment Equity candidates and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Saratoga is an equal opportunities employer. We believe that employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all members of society irrespective of age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief. The relevant laws and principles associated with Employment Equity and Black Economic Empowerment will be considered when appointing potential candidates.

POPI

Saratoga is POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013) compliant, and all personal information is protected according to legislation. By applying for any of our available vacancies, you give Saratoga consent to process your Personal Information for Recruitment Purposes, according to the POPI ACT, 2013. If you have any concerns regarding your Personal Information and our compliance towards the legislation, you are welcome to request our Privacy Policy, or follow this link to view it: https://saratogasoftware.com/privacy-policy/