Data Scientist

Network Finance; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Network Finance seeks a senior Data Scientist to lead the design and deployment of scalable ML models in a cloud environment. You will analyse complex datasets, run controlled experiments, and translate results for business growth.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, present findings clearly, and mentor junior data scientists. The role emphasizes innovation, data sources exploration, and establishing best practices in MLOps, version control, and model validation.

Qualifications

• Honours degree in a relevant quantitative discipline.
• Master's degree will be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development and deployment of scalable ML models and data products in a cloud environment.
• Analyse datasets and model outputs to identify trends and support data-driven growth.
• Design, execute and evaluate controlled experiments with robust statistical recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement ML solutions delivering measurable value.
• Present analytical findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders clearly.
• Drive innovation by identifying new data sources and analytics approaches.
• Mentor junior data scientists and promote best practices in code quality and MLOps.
• Establish and promote data science best practices across validation, version control and production readiness.

Skills

Python

SQL

ML techniques

Git workflows

CI/CD

Statistics

Cloud platforms (GCP)

Data visualization (Power BI/Looker)

Education

Honours degree in Data Science/CS/Statistics/Applied Mathematics/O.R.

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

Power BI

Looker Studio

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of scalable, production-ready machine learning models and data products within a cloud-based environment.
• Analyse complex datasets and model outputs to identify trends, generate actionable insights, and support data-driven business growth.
• Design, execute, and evaluate controlled experiments, delivering statistically robust recommendations to support strategic decision-making.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement machine learning solutions that address business challenges and create measurable value.
• Present complex analytical findings and recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders in a clear, concise, and impactful manner.
• Drive innovation by identifying new data sources, analytical techniques, and opportunities to enhance existing solutions and business outcomes.
• Mentor and support junior data scientists, fostering a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• Establish and promote best practices across the data science function, including code quality, version control, model validation, and MLOps processes.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Honours degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Operations Research, or a related quantitative discipline.
• A Master's degree will be advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in Data Science, including at least 2 years in a senior or leadership capacity.
• Experience within retail, customer analytics, marketing analytics, or related commercial environments will be highly advantageous.

Technical Competencies

• Strong proficiency in Python and SQL.
• Sound understanding of version control systems, Git workflows, and CI/CD practices.
• Hands-on experience with machine learning techniques, including regression, classification, clustering, and predictive modelling.
• Strong background in statistical analysis, experimental design, and hypothesis testing.
• Experience working with cloud platforms, preferably Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
• Familiarity with data visualisation and business intelligence tools such as Power BI or Looker Studio.
• Experience deploying, monitoring, and maintaining machine learning models in production environments.

Key Skills and Attributes

• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex analytical concepts into business-focused insights.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities, particularly when addressing complex or ambiguous business challenges.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Results-driven with a strong sense of ownership, accountability, and commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes.
• Naturally curious with a passion for discovering innovative approaches, new technologies, and emerging methodologies.
• Adaptable and eager to continuously learn and develop new technical and business skills.
• Strong commercial awareness and the ability to align data science initiatives with broader business objectives.