Data Science Lead

Job Title: Data Science Lead
Reports To: Head of Finance
Department: Finance
Division: Finance, Legal &ICT
Location: ABSA Tower
Basic Salary: Open

Job Purpose Statement:

  • The job holder is responsible for managing the groups data management, analyzing complex datasets, developing predictive models, and providing data-driven insights to enhance decision-making across all Optiven departments
  • Developing and implementing data strategies and policies.
  • Ensuring data protection compliance and security.
  • Overseeing end to end data management including design, capture, analysis, storage and retrial
  • Data visualization and interpretation to support business growth.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement data policies in line with organizational objectives and Legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Design organization data frameworks in line with Business Requirements.
  • Oversee data governance processes to maintain data integrity, security, and accessibility.
  • Manage data infrastructure to ensure efficient storage, organization, and retrieval of information.
  • Regularly review processes to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
  • Collect, clean, and pre-process data from source systems (e.g. ERP, CRM, financial systems, HR records customer feedback platforms etc.).
  • Conduct advanced data analysis using statistical models and machine learning techniques.
  • Develop predictive models to improve forecasting accuracy and enhance strategic planning.
  • Deliver clear, actionable insights to support data-driven decision-making.
  • Design, develop, and maintain interactive dashboards to visualize complex data sets for real-time decision-making.
  • Analyze data trends and patterns to generate actionable insights for stakeholders
  • Detect anomalies in data and conduct root-cause analysis to help departments understand performance gaps.
  • Ensure compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR, DPA, and other relevant laws.
  • Implement data governance frameworks aligned with Kenya’s Data Protection Act (2019).
  • Ensure compliance with GDPR, ISO 27001, and other relevant standards.
  • Monitor data security risks and suggest mitigation strategies.
  • Conduct quarterly data audits and enforce role-based access controls.
  • Implement robust data security measures and conduct staff training programs to promote data protection awareness.
  • Create comprehensive reports that present key metrics, findings, and insights.
  • Develop automated and standardized reporting mechanisms aligned with business needs.
  • Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of data initiatives.
  • Analyze customer segmentation, preferences, and purchase behavior.
  • Track and reduce customer churn rates through retention analytics.
  • Optimize digital marketing campaigns using web and social media analytics.
  • Deploy AI-powered forecasting tools to support.
  • Perform A/B testing to optimize marketing campaigns and sales strategies
  • Provide quarterly business intelligence reviews to management.
  • Stay informed about emerging data science trends, tools, and best practices.
  • Identify and implement innovative techniques to improve data analysis, reporting, and operational efficiency.
  • Automate repetitive data analysis processes, reducing manual intervention.
  • Evaluate and recommend data management systems that enhance the organization’s data capabilities.
  • Manage and mentor the data science team.
  • Assign tasks, monitor progress, and provide guidance to ensure successful project delivery.
  • Foster a collaborative and innovative team environment.
  • Perform other duties as maybe assigned from time-to-time.

Qualification And Experience Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics or a related field.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in data science or analytics roles, with at least 1-2 years in a supervisory role.
  • Certifications in data science, analysis and/or data protection (e.g., Certified Data Management Professional, Certified Information Privacy Professional).
  • Strong knowledge of machine learning, statistical analysis, and big data technologies.
  • Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and programming languages (e.g. Python, R).

Competency Requirements:

  • Strong analytical & problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to translate business problems into data-driven solutions.
  • Excellent communication & reporting skills for non-technical stakeholders.
  • Hands-on experience with AI, data mining, and predictive modeling.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, results-driven environment.
  • Critical Thinking
  • Adaptability
  • Innovative
  • Collaboration
  • Decision-Making

Application Details:

  • How to Apply: Submit your application via recruitment@optiven.ke.
  • Deadline: Applications close on 15th April 2025.
  • Shortlisting Process: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
  • Recruitment Fee: Optiven Group does not charge any fee for job applications, interviews, or placements.
  • Communication: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted due to high application volumes.
  • Disqualification: Any form of canvassing leads to automatic disqualification.
  • Consent: By applying, candidates agree to allow background checks as necessary.
  • Equal Opportunity: Optiven Group is an equal opportunity employer.

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