Remote Senior Data Scientist - FMCG Analytics

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Remote work flexibility

Training resources and conferences

Data-centric organization

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Data Scientist to join a cutting-edge analytics team. This fully remote role within South Africa focuses on leveraging large datasets to drive strategic decisions across marketing, sales, and operations.

The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of experience, advanced degrees, and proven expertise in ML, statistical modeling, and data visualization. You will mentor others and contribute to data strategy in a fast-moving FMCG environment.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a quantitative field is required.
• Minimum 5 years in data science with a focus on business problems.
• Expertise in statistical modelling and ML algorithms (regression, classification, clustering, time series).
• Proficiency in Python or R and libraries (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow or PyTorch).
• Experience with SQL and big data tech (Spark, Hadoop).
• Strong data visualization and ability to communicate with non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement statistical models and ML algorithms on large datasets.
• Ingest, clean, and transform data from multiple sources to ensure data integrity.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Sales, Operations to translate challenges into data solutions.
• Develop predictive models for forecasting sales and customer segmentation.
• Create reports and dashboards for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay updated on advances in data science and AI, and mentor junior data scientists.

Skills

Statistical modeling

Machine learning

Data storytelling

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in a quantitative field

Tools

Python

R

Pandas

NumPy

Scikit-learn

TensorFlow

PyTorch

SQL

Spark

Hadoop

Tableau

Power BI

Matplotlib/Seaborn

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is actively seeking a talented and experienced Senior Data Scientist to join their cutting-edge analytics team. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leveraging vast datasets to uncover actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making across various business functions, including marketing, sales, supply chain, and product development. You will be instrumental in building advanced analytical models, interpreting complex data, and communicating findings to diverse stakeholders, ultimately shaping the future trajectory of our client's brands. This role is perfect for a data-driven professional passionate about applying advanced statistical and machine learning techniques to solve real-world business problems in a dynamic industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement sophisticated statistical models and machine learning algorithms to analyze large datasets related to consumer behavior, sales trends, market dynamics, and operational efficiency.
• Extract, clean, and transform data from various sources, ensuring data integrity and accuracy for analytical purposes.
• Collaborate closely with business units (e.g., Marketing, Sales, Operations) to understand their challenges and translate them into data-driven solutions.
• Develop predictive models for forecasting sales, identifying customer segmentation, and optimizing marketing campaigns.
• Utilize data visualization tools to create compelling and understandable reports, dashboards, and presentations for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and AI, and evaluate their potential application to the business.
• Mentor junior data scientists and contribute to building a strong data analytics culture within the organization.
• Communicate complex analytical findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to senior management and cross-functional teams.
• Contribute to data strategy development and data governance initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience as a Data Scientist, with a strong focus on applying advanced analytical techniques to business problems.
• Proven expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, time series analysis), and deep learning.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Experience with SQL for data extraction and manipulation, and familiarity with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop).
• Strong data visualization skills using tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Matplotlib/Seaborn.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Experience in the FMCG industry is a significant advantage.
• Must be able to work independently and collaboratively in a remote setting.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including a performance bonus, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, and a generous retirement savings plan.
• As a fully remote position, you benefit from unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance.
• Continuous learning and professional development are strongly encouraged, with access to training resources and conferences.
• You will be part of an innovative and data-centric organization making a significant impact on the FMCG landscape.