Data Science Manager

FirstRand Limited; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

FirstRand Limited, through the FNB Short Term Insurance Data & Analytics Office, seeks a Data Science Manager to lead the team, develop data capabilities and deploy models that influence business strategy. The role focuses on predicting client behaviour, improving channel design across banking and insurance.

You will drive end-to-end analytics initiatives and collaborate with operations. Ideal candidates have 5–8 years in analytics, SAS/SQL proficiency, and strong leadership for delivering

Qualifications

• Minimum qualification in mathematical sciences or related field with strong analytical ability.
• Honours degree preferred for advanced data science responsibilities.
• Experience leading analytics teams and delivering data-driven results is required.
• Proven track record with SAS/SQL and operational data deployments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimise data science operations within the FNB Short Term Insurance Data & Analytics Office.
• Develop and manage propensity models and customer hyper-segmentation initiatives.
• Reduce attrition on back-book through collections and retention interventions.
• Collaborate with operations to improve TAT and execution of analytics projects.
• Provide analytical reporting for call centre operations and guide data engineering for BDP/PI implementation.

Skills

Propensity modelling

Hyper-segmentation

Operational analytics

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's or equivalent in Mathematical Sciences/Statistics/Actuarial Science/Engineering

Honours Degree

Tools

SAS

SQL

Job description

Job Description To implement the Analytics standards in allocated business units, that contribute to the monetisation of data through the development and delivery of advanced mathematical models and business principles that find hidden patterns and associations in data used to influence business strategy, inform channel design and make predictions on the behaviour of clients. Hello Future Data Science Manager, Welcome to FNB, the home of the #changeables. We design for the shapeshifters and deliver products and services that make us incredibly proud of people that make it happen. As part of our team, you will be surrounded by unique talents, diverse minds, and an adaptable environment that lives up to the promise of staying curious. Now's the time to imagine your potential in a team where experts come together and ignite effective change.

Role Purpose

This Data Science Manager role is within the FNB Short term insurance Data & Analytics Office. The role is responsible for leading the team, developing and enhancing data science capabilities for operations within the FNB short term insurance business. Join one of the most exciting and fastest growing areas within FNB and grow your career with exposure across both the Banking and Insurance Industry.

Key requirements

• Manage and optimize our operational processes
• Develop and manage new propensity models
• Develop our customer hyper-segmentation target models
• Reduce attrition on back-book via collections and retentions interventions
• Work with operations team to help improve TAT and execution
• Help with analytical reporting for call centre
• Guide data engineering team on build requirements for BDP/PI implementation

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum Qualification - Have a relevant Degree in Mathematical Sciences, Statistics, Actuarial Science, Engineering
• Preferred Qualification - Honours Degree
• A minimum of 5 - 8 years' relevant experience of which 2 - 3 years ideally at management level.
• Intermediate to advanced coding skills in SAS and SQL
• Intermediate knowledge on advanced analytical techniques e.g., statistical methods, segmentation, optimisation and experimental design.
• Have specialist skills and experience in operations (claims, servicing and collections) with strong deployment and execution history

You will have access to:

• Opportunities to network and collaborate
• A challenging working environment that is progressive and agile
• Opportunities to innovate where initiative is taken and owned end to end

We can be a match if you are:

• Adaptable and curious
• Analyze complex data sets
• Thrive in a collaborative environment

All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group's Employment Equity plan. The bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. In order for us to fulfill this purpose, candidates can disclose their disability information on a voluntary basis. The Bank will keep this information confidential unless we are required by law to disclose this information to other parties.

Important Closing Date Note

Note Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards, kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below. 25/08/26

FirstRand provides a comprehensive range of financial services in South Africa and certain markets in broader Africa. The group also offers certain niche products and services in the UK and India. Listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) and the Namibian Stock Exchange (NSX), FirstRand Limited is the largest financial institution by market capitalisation in Africa. The group follows a multi-branding approach. Its portfolio of financial services businesses includes FNB, RMB, WesBank, Ashburton Investments, Aldermore, MotoNovo and DirectAxis. Many are leaders in their respective segments and markets, offering transactional, lending, investment and insurance products and services The FirstRand Corporate Centre houses many of the critical functions required by a large and complex financial services group. The group's track record of delivering superior returns to shareholders has been achieved through a combination of organic growth, acquisitions, innovation and the creation of completely new businesses. The group's purpose of delivering Shared Prosperity provides many opportunities for employees to innovate to address social and environmental challenges in our markets. All of our businesses have successful Volunteering programmes which also allow employees to adopt and support causes close to their hearts.