Head Data Science (Direct and Digital Insurance)

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

Job summary

A leading African financial institution is seeking a Head: Data Science to drive the development of machine learning and AI models. This role will lead innovation across telematics, risk modelling, and customer decisioning. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in Data Science or related fields, plus significant experience in building AI models. The position is vital in positioning the bank at the forefront of digital insurance innovation.

Qualifications

• Master’s level in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering.
• Experience in building machine learning and AI models.
• Strong analytical skills in data interpretation and risk modelling.

Responsibilities

• Build and operationalise machine learning and AI models.
• Drive innovation across telematics, risk modelling, and customer decisioning.
• Develop models for customer segmentation and client lifetime value.

Skills

Machine learning

AI model building

Data analysis

Predictive modelling

Customer segmentation

Education

Master's Degree in Data Science

Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Sciences

Advanced Diploma in Mathematics

Job description

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

With over 100 years of rich history and strongly positioned 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 role will be responsible for building and operationalising machine learning and AI models. The Head: Data Science drives experimentation and innovation across telematics, risk modelling, and customer decisioning (including customer segmentation and client lifetime value). The role positions Absa Insurance at the forefront of digital insurance innovation and is explicitly distinct from Management Information and reporting functions. Master’s level in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Engineering.

Job Description

The role will be responsible for building and operationalising machine learning and AI models. The Head: Data Science drives experimentation and innovation across telematics, risk modelling, and customer decisioning (including customer segmentation and client lifetime value). The role positions Absa Insurance at the forefront of digital insurance innovation and is explicitly distinct from Management Information and reporting functions.

Telematics

• Build driver behaviour models that predict risk and reward safe driving.

• Use connected-device data (e.g., vehicle sensors, IoT geysers) to enable proactive risk management.

• Translate raw telematics data into underwriting insights and customer value propositions.

Risk Modelling

• Predictive Underwriting: Apply AI/ML to assess claim probability upfront (telematics, geospatial risk, external data) to sharpen risk selection.

• Portfolio Stress Signals: Monitor book performance with models for lapse/NTU risk, persistency, and concentration exposures, providing early warning to complement actuarial reserving.

Customer Decisioning

• Develop models for customer segmentation, targeting, and personalised offers.

• Predict client lifetime value (CLV) to optimise acquisition and retention investments.

• Support decision engines for next-best action, pricing, and cross-sell in digital channels.

Education

Bachelor’s Degrees and Advanced Diplomas: Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences (Required); Master’s Degree: Data Science (Required); Masters Degrees (coursework and research): Computer and Information Science (Required); Masters Degrees (coursework and research): Mathematics (Required); Masters Degrees (coursework and research): Statistics (Required).

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 whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile and add to the diversity of the Bank.

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