Head of Data Analytics and Personalisation

Absa Group; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading bank in South Africa is seeking a Head of Data Analytics and Personalisation. This role focuses on driving data-driven strategies to enhance customer engagement and business growth. The ideal candidate will lead advanced analytics initiatives, develop AI-driven insights, and build a high-performing team. Join us to shape the future of banking through innovative data solutions.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in Data Analytics and AI.
• Proven experience leading data analytics initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive Data Analytics strategy.
• Design and implement AI-driven personalisation models.
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team.

Skills

Strategic Thinking

Problem-Solving

Leadership

Stakeholder Management

Customer-Centric Mindset

Data Storytelling

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Science

Bachelor's Degrees and Advanced Diplomas in Business

Tools

SQL

Python

R

Power BI

AWS

Azure

Job description

Empowering Africa’s tomorrow, together…one story at a time.

With over 100 years of rich history and a strong presence as a local bank with regional and international expertise, a career with our family offers the opportunity to be part of this exciting growth journey, to reset our future, and shape our destiny as a proudly African group.

Job Summary

The Head of Data Analytics and Personalisation is responsible for driving data-driven decision-making and customer personalisation strategies to enhance business growth, operational efficiency, and customer experience. This role will lead the development and execution of advanced analytics, AI-driven insights, and customer segmentation strategies to optimise engagement, product offerings, and business outcomes.

Job Description

1. Data Analytics Strategy & Execution
   • Develop and implement a comprehensive Data Analytics strategy aligned with business objectives.
   • Lead advanced data modelling, machine learning, and AI initiatives to generate actionable insights.
   • Ensure analytics drive operational efficiencies, revenue growth, and risk management.
2. Customer Personalisation & Engagement
   • Design and implement AI-driven personalisation models to enhance customer engagement across digital and traditional channels.
   • Leverage predictive analytics for customer segmentation, targeting, and hyper-personalised experiences.
   • Establish frameworks to measure the impact of personalisation on customer satisfaction, retention, and lifetime value.
3. Leadership & Team Development
   • Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing data analytics and personalisation team.
   • Foster a culture of innovation, continuous learning, and data-driven decision-making.
   • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including marketing, digital, product, and technology, to embed analytics into strategic initiatives.
4. Data Infrastructure & Governance
   • Partner with teams to ensure a scalable, secure, and efficient data infrastructure.
   • Promote and enforce data governance, quality, and ethical AI practices.
   • Oversee data privacy compliance and regulatory adherence.
5. Performance Measurement & Business Impact
   • Define and track KPIs to measure the impact of analytics and personalisation on business performance.
   • Refine strategies based on insights, market trends, and evolving customer needs.
   • Provide executive-level reporting and storytelling to communicate data-driven strategies and outcomes.

Key Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Business Analytics, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in Data Analytics, AI, customer insights, or personalisation strategy.
• Proven experience leading Data analytics and AI-driven personalisation initiatives in customer-centric organisations.
• Strong background in data science, machine learning, and predictive modelling.
• Experience with big data platforms, cloud technologies, and personalisation engines.

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic Thinking & Problem-Solving: translating data insights into actionable strategies.
• Technical Expertise: proficiency in SQL, Python, R, Power BI, AWS, Azure, etc.
• Leadership & Stakeholder Management: influencing and collaborating with C-suite and business leaders.
• Customer-Centric Mindset: understanding customer behaviour and engagement strategies.
• Data Storytelling & Communication: presenting complex data insights clearly and compellingly.

Education

Bachelor's Degrees and Advanced Diplomas in Business, Commerce, and Management Studies.

Absa Bank Limited is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. In compliance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups to contribute towards achieving equitable demographic representation and diversity.

Absa Bank Limited reserves the right not to make an appointment to the post as advertised.