Data Scientist

Unifi; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing financial services company in Stellenbosch is seeking a Data Scientist. The role involves collecting, analyzing data, and delivering insights to drive business strategies. Candidates should have substantial experience, particularly in financial services, with strong skills in Python and Google Looker. This is a unique opportunity to impact an African company as it expands its reach.

Qualifications

• 3+ years’ proven experience as a Data Scientist or similar role.
• Proficiency in GCP, BigQuery, SQL, Python, R, and data visualization tools.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Collect, extract, and compile data from multiple sources.
• Perform exploratory and statistical analysis to identify patterns.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand business requirements.

Skills

Python

Google Looker

BigQuery

SQL

Data Visualization

Statistical Analysis

Data Modeling

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mathematics

Degree in Statistics

Degree in Computer Science

Degree in Data Analytics/Science

Tools

Google Cloud Platform

R

Job description

About Unifi

Unifi is redefining credit in Africa with simple, fast personal loans delivered through online, mobile and branch channels. We make life easy for thousands of clients across Zambia, Kenya, Uganda and South Africa. Unifi has conviction in the African continent and its people, and our products enable our clients to achieve even more. As one of the fastest-growing lenders in East Africa, we combine exceptional client service with the very best tech and data analytics.

Learn More About Unifi At

www.unifi.credit/about

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUrwaPmzU5E

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vl32BzxAHfA&t=26s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Gf1ZiFpfSc&t=188s

About The Role

Unifi is looking for a Data Scientist with expertise in Python, Google Looker, and BigQuery to help turn complex data into insights that drive smarter decisions. In this role, you’ll collect, analyze, and interpret data, uncovering trends and delivering insights that shape business strategy. You’ll work closely with stakeholders to design impactful solutions, optimize processes, and improve overall performance.

At Unifi, we value curiosity, simplicity, and bold ideas. If you’re self-driven, adventurous, and passionate about African business, this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

Responsibilities

Data Collection & Preparation

• Collect, extract, and compile data from multiple sources, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Clean and transform raw data into structured datasets for analysis.
• Identify and resolve data quality issues, inconsistencies, and anomalies.
• Work with SQL, Python, and BigQuery, while staying up to date with new trends and tools in data analytics.
  
  

Data Analysis & Insights

• Perform exploratory and statistical analysis to identify patterns, trends, and relationships.
• Use data visualization techniques to interpret and present findings clearly.
• Analyse large datasets to deliver actionable insights and recommendations.
• Support scorecard development, maintenance, testing, and reporting.
• Provide input into credit policy proposals and client limit management through data-driven analysis.
  
  

Business Decision Support

• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand business requirements and translate them into analytical solutions.
• Provide analytical support for initiatives such as market analysis, customer segmentation, and performance tracking.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, drive efficiencies, and optimize revenue.
  
  

Continuous Learning & Development

• Keep up with best practices, emerging technologies, and industry trends in data science and analytics.
• Expand expertise in statistical analysis, data modeling, and visualization tools.
• Actively participate in professional development through training, workshops, and knowledge sharing.
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Data Analytics/Science, or a related field.
• 3+ years’ proven experience as a Data Scientist or in a similar role, ideally within credit or financial services.
• Proficiency in GCP (Google Cloud Platform), BigQuery, SQL, Python, R, and data visualization tools such as Google Looker.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work with large datasets.
• Experience in statistical analysis and data modeling.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Solid working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and other data manipulation tools.
• Familiarity with data governance and awareness of data privacy regulations is advantageous.