Senior Data Scientist (Cape Town)

Are you passionate about using AI and machine learning to solve real-world problems?
Do you thrive on driving innovation and mentoring others while shaping the future of data science in banking? Join a leading bank as a Senior Data Scientist and be part of a team that’s redefining how data drives smarter decisions, stronger credit strategies, and better customer experiences.

With your expertise in credit scoring, risk modelling, and advanced machine learning techniques, you’ll play a key role in building solutions that enhance financial decision-making, improve credit processes, and deliver meaningful impact to both the business and its customers.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of predictive models and intelligent algorithms that power strategic decision-making across the business.
• Drive Capitec’s AI strategy, positioning the bank as a leader in data-driven transformation.
• Mentor and guide junior data scientists, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning.
• Partner with business stakeholders to translate complex needs into practical, high-impact AI solutions.
• Ensure best practices in data governance, ethical AI, and compliance while delivering innovative solutions.
• Strategic thinker who links AI initiatives to business goals.
• Natural leader with a passion for mentoring and building high-performing teams.
• Analytical mindset with sharp problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Skilled project manager with experience coordinating large-scale AI initiatives.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Master’s degree in a quantitative discipline (Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Computer Science) with 6+ years relevant experience
• Proven experience leading and deploying machine learning solutions in real-world applications.
• Strong track record in requirements gathering and stakeholder communication across business units.
• Proficiency in reproducible coding practices and development standards.
• Expertise in Python, R, relational and non-relational databases.
• Hands-on experience in cloud environments (AWS, Azure, or GCP).
• Use Cases / Applied ML Expertise in:
• Credit Scoring: Logistic Regression, XGBoost, LightGBM
• Default Prediction: Random Forest, Gradient Boosted Models, Logistic Regression
• Loan Approval Automation: Decision Trees, GBMs
• Fraud Detection: Neural Networks, Isolation Forest, SVM
• Collections Prioritisation: Clustering, Gradient Boosting
• Customer Segmentation: K-means, DBSCAN, Hierarchical Clustering

The Reference Number for this position is NG60793 which is a Permanent Hybrid position based in Cape Town offering a cost to company of up to R1.5mil per annum negotiable on experience and ability. Contact Nokuthula at nokuthulag@ e-merge.co.za or call her on 011 463 3633 to discuss this and other opportunities.