Data Scientist

Wesbank; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

WesBank seeks a data science professional to plan, build and deploy quantitative analytical models supporting business opportunities within FNB Short Term Insurance. You will explore diverse data sources and apply advanced techniques to uncover insights and drive efficiency, with ownership of projects and clear communication to leadership.

The role emphasizes initiative, collaboration with stakeholders, and delivering impact through rigorous analytics and creative problem-solving.

Qualifications

• Minimum qualification: B Degree in Engineering, Mathematical Sciences, Statistics, Actuarial Science.
• Preferred qualification: Honours Degree.
• 3-5 years' relevant experience; SAS coding proficiency expected.
• Knowledge of advanced analytical techniques: statistical methods, segmentation, optimization, experimental design.

Responsibilities

• Plan, build, optimise and implement quantitative analytical methodologies and models to support business opportunities and strategy.
• Analyse diverse data sources to uncover insights, gaps and efficiency opportunities.
• Present findings to leadership forums and collaborate with stakeholders to drive improvements.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical methods

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematical Sciences, Statistics, Actuarial Science

Honours Degree

Tools

SAS

Advanced analytics tools

Job description

Job Description To plan, build, optimise and implement innovative quantitative analytical methodologies, procedures, products and advanced mathematical models that provide analytical support and interpret insights, to address business opportunities and problems and implement business strategy, with minimal guidance. Hello, Future Data Scientist, Join our trailblazing team that thrives on momentum, initiative, and deep technical mastery, the epicenter of operational data, analytics, and insights for FNB Short Term Insurance. This pivotal role involves exploring a wide range of data sources and using advanced analytical techniques to find gaps, improve business processes, and discover efficiency opportunities. By analysing diverse data sources and uncovering valuable insights, your work will drive strategic discussions and support key initiatives across Short Term Insurance. The successful candidate will be empowered to think creatively, take ownership of projects/initiatives, and present findings to leadership forums.

Team Culture and Values

• Innovation: Creativity and innovation are at the heart of the team's approach. The team encourages exploring new ideas, experimenting with cutting-edge technologies, and continuously seeking better ways to solve problems and drive efficiency.
• Collaboration: The Team thrives on collaboration. Team members work closely together and with other functions, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to achieve common goals. Open communication and teamwork are highly valued.
• Impact-Driven: The team is focused on making a meaningful impact. Every project and analysis are aimed at driving positive changes and contributing to the overall success of the business.

You’ll be an ideal candidate if you

• Never satisfied with the status quo.
• Produce innovative ideas and solutions based on data.
• Stating assumptions and overcoming challenges.
• Self-driven and able to own their projects.
• Able to collaborate effectively with different stakeholders.
• Have a growth mindset aimed at continuous learning and self-improvement.
• Open-minded and enjoy problem solving.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum Qualification: B Degree in Engineering, Mathematical Sciences, Statistics, Actuarial Science.
• Preferred Qualification: Honours Degree
• A minimum of 3 - 5 years' relevant experience.
• Intermediate to advanced coding skills in SAS.
• Intermediate knowledge on advanced analytical techniques e.g., statistical methods, segmentation, optimization, experimental design.
• Leadership experience will be advantageous.

Important Closing Date 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

We look forward to engaging with you! All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group's Employment Equity plan.

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

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

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.