Data Scientist_Ii

Spane4All; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial institution in South Africa is seeking a Data Scientist to enhance analytics capabilities through predictive modeling and strategic insights. Ideal candidates will have 4-5 years of relevant experience, strong skills in SQL, SAS, Python, and R, and a genuine passion for data-driven decision-making. The role involves managing analytics projects and collaborating across teams to drive impactful business outcomes. Applications are encouraged in advance of the closing date of 17th December 2025.

Qualifications

• 4–5 years' relevant work experience in analytics, including 2+ years in Predictive analytics.
• Strong numerical and statistical competency.
• Excellent skills in stakeholder engagement and communication.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain analytical capabilities and model libraries.
• Lead design and implementation of marketing acquisition strategies.
• Build scalable data products to monetize data assets.
• Manage and mentor junior analysts and data scientists.

Skills

SQL

SAS

Python

R

Data Mining

Education

Bachelor's degree in Quantitative Risk Management, Mathematics, Statistics, Actuarial Science, or Bcom Quantitative Finance

Postgraduate qualification

Job description

Job Description

Hello, Future Data Scientist We design for the shapeshifters and the game changers.

As part of our talent team at Direct Axis, 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.

Key Responsibilities

• Advanced analytics and Modelling: Develop and maintain core analytical capabilities and model libraries using advanced statistical, quantitative, and econometric techniques. Build predictive and prescriptive models to optimize credit acquisition strategies, cost efficiency, and revenue generation. Apply machine learning and numeric optimization techniques to solve complex business problems.
• Strategy & Execution: Lead the design and implementation of marketing acquisition and conversion strategies. Own and drive analytics projects from ideation to delivery. Support experimentation and decision-making through robust statistical analysis.
• Data Products & Value Creation: Build scalable data products to monetize data assets. Derive actionable insights from large datasets to inform business decisions. Conduct ad-hoc analytics to support tactical and strategic initiatives.
• Leadership & Collaboration: Manage and mentor junior analysts and data scientists. Collaborate cross‑functionally with business, technology, and risk teams. Engage stakeholders to align analytics initiatives with business goals.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum qualification: a relevant bachelors degree in Quantitative Risk Management, BSc in Mathematics, Statistics, Actuarial Science, Bcom Quantitative Finance or related field.
• Preferred qualification: a relevant Postgraduate qualification.
• Experience: A minimum of 4–5 years' relevant work experience, including 2+ years in Predictive analytics.
• Strong proficiency in data mining and coding using tools such as SQL, SAS, Python and R.
• Strong numerical and statistical competency required.
• Demonstrated ability to understand and navigate complex business environments, aligning data‑driven strategies with organizational goals.

• Proven capability to convert data insights into actionable, high‑impact strategic recommendations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a track record of effectively engaging diverse stakeholders across all levels.
• A genuine passion for leveraging data to address real‑world challenges and drive meaningful outcomes.
• Ability to excel in fast‑paced, evolving settings while maintaining focus and delivering results.
• Prior experience in financial services is highly advantageous.

Job Details

Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards; kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below.

17 / 12 / 25. 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 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.

Introduce yourself to our recruiters and we will get in touch if there's a role that seems like a good match. Should you have any queries, please log it via .