Data Scientist III

Job Description
To plan, build, optimise and implement innovative quantitative analytical methodologies, procedures, products and advanced

mathematical models that provide analytical support and interpret insights, using advanced analytics technologies, to address business opportunities and problems and implement business strategy.

Hello,
Future Data Scientist III

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 credit acquisition 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 credit 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 years' relevant work experience, of which includes 4 + years within Credit Risk analytics and 2 + years' experience in Predictive analytics
• Proven experience in leading teams and/or projects
• A strong level of proficiency in data mining and coding using tools such as: SQL, SAS, Python and R
• A strong numerical and statistical competency is 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.
• Strong skills in Power BI, presenting data in a compelling and accessible manner, using storytelling techniques to influence decision-making.
• Prior experience in financial services or credit risk 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.*
17/10/25

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 for us 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.