Head Of Data Analytics

Lesaka Technologies; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial technology firm in South Africa seeks an experienced Head of Data and Analytics to lead the enterprise data function. This role involves defining and executing the data strategy, overseeing platforms, and delivering actionable analytics that influence business decisions. The ideal candidate has over 8 years of experience, including significant leadership roles, particularly in financial services or fintech. Strong skills in data governance, BI tools, and stakeholder management are essential. Competitive compensation is offered.

Qualifications

• More than 8 years of experience in data, analytics, or BI roles.
• 4–5 years in senior leadership positions.
• Experience in regulated, high-volume financial services sectors.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the data and analytics strategy.
• Establish data governance, quality, and compliance frameworks.
• Oversee data platforms and integration pipelines.
• Deliver analytics to influence business outcomes.
• Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary data team.

Skills

Data strategy development

Data governance

Analytics

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Power BI

Tableau

SQL

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science

Postgraduate certifications

Job description

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced Head of Data and Analytics to lead our enterprise data function. This role will define and execute the data strategy, oversee platforms, ensure data quality and governance, and deliver analytics and AI insights that drive decisions across product, risk, operations, and commercial areas. You will work closely with functional leaders and report directly to the CIO.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement the data and analytics strategy aligned with business priorities.
• Establish and maintain enterprise-wide data governance, quality, and compliance frameworks.
• Oversee design, operation, and evolution of data platforms, warehouses/lakehouses, and integration pipelines.
• Deliver actionable analytics, dashboards, and AI use cases to influence business outcomes.
• Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing multidisciplinary data team.
• Engage with senior stakeholders to ensure data drives business decisions.

Requirements:

• 8+ years in data, analytics, or BI roles, including 4–5 years in senior leadership.
• Experience in financial services, fintech, payments, or similarly regulated, high-volume environments.
• Proven track record in building or scaling a data function and delivering analytics/AI projects with measurable impact.
• Strong understanding of data platforms, governance, BI tools (Power BI, Tableau, etc.), and SQL; familiarity with cloud data platforms.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder management, and strategic thinking skills.

Education & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Engineering, Information Systems, Mathematics, Economics, or related field.
• Postgraduate or relevant certifications are advantageous but not required.