Data Officer

Sanlam Limited; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A financial services company in Gauteng is seeking a Data Officer with an actuarial background. The role involves leading data capabilities transformation and ensuring compliance with South African regulations. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree and experience in short-term insurance, data governance, and cloud technologies. This position offers full-time opportunities with potential career growth.

Qualifications

• Years of experience in short-term insurance with exposure to MIS, data governance, and actuarial modelling.
• 3+ years management experience.
• Experience in cloud data platforms and data warehouse modernisation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive data strategy aligned with business goals.
• Champion the shift from legacy systems to a modern, cloud-based data warehouse.
• Ensure data quality and compliance with South African regulations.

Skills

Cloud data platforms knowledge

Data tools proficiency

Actuarial principles understanding

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Data Science, Computer Science or related field

Qualified or nearly qualified actuary (ASSA or equivalent)

Tools

SQL

Power BI

Python

R

Job description

MiWay is a direct financial services company committed to transformation and embracing diversity.

Job Title: Data Officer (Actuarial Background)

Department: Information Technology / MIS

Reporting To: Executive Head: Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Location: Kosmosdal, Gauteng

Type: Full-Time

Deadline to apply: 17 November

Purpose

Lead the strategic transformation of data capabilities by integrating actuarial expertise with data governance, MIS oversight, and modern data architecture.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive data strategy aligned with business goals, regulatory requirements, and digital initiatives.
• Champion the shift from legacy systems to a modern, cloud‑based data warehouse.
• Establish and lead a company‑wide data governance framework (policies, standards, stewardship).
• Ensure data quality, consistency, privacy and compliance with South African regulations (e.g., POPIA).
• Lead the MIS function to deliver accurate, timely and actionable insights.
• Enhance reporting capabilities via automation, self‑service BI and advanced analytics, ensuring alignment with actuarial models and regulatory submissions.
• Apply actuarial knowledge to design database structures supporting pricing, reserving and risk modelling.
• Translate actuarial outputs into business‑relevant insights and align data strategies with the Head of Actuarial.
• Lead the migration of the data warehouse to a scalable, secure cloud‑based platform.
• Evaluate and implement modern data technologies (e.g., Azure, AWS, Snowflake, Databricks) to support real‑time analytics and machine learning.
• Engage with executive leadership, business units and technical teams to deliver impactful solutions.
• Promote a data‑driven culture and advocate for data literacy across the organisation.
• Manage and mentor a team of MIS analysts, data engineers and governance specialists.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Actuarial Science, Data Science, Computer Science or a related field.
• Qualified or nearly qualified actuary (ASSA or equivalent).
• Years of experience in short‑term insurance with exposure to MIS, data governance and actuarial modelling.
• 3+ years management experience.
• Experience in cloud data platforms and data warehouse modernisation.
• Proven leadership in data strategy and cross‑functional collaboration.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong knowledge of cloud data platforms (Azure Synapse, AWS Redshift, Snowflake).
• Proficiency in data tools (SQL, Power BI, Python, R).
• Deep understanding of actuarial principles and insurance operations.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and change leadership skills.
• Familiarity with data privacy and regulatory frameworks (POPIA, SAM).