Data and Analytics Manager - JHB at KPMG South Africa

About the opportunity:

KPMG Southern Africa has been awarded several blue-chip company audits, majority of them listed on one or more stock exchanges. We are committed to providing our professionals with exposure to projects of significance, learning opportunities of value and a path to distinction amongst their peers. 

We are growing our team of data and analytics specialists and we are looking for a Manager who can help lead our dynamic team into the future.

This pivotal position involves providing strategic leadership, fostering innovation, and exercising oversight for our data and analytics team. The incumbent will play a crucial role in driving impactful solutions for our diverse client base spanning various industries. This will be achieved through the strategic utilization of advanced analytics techniques, utilizing cutting edge technologies including artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, machine learning algorithm, predictive analytics and many other.

Key responsibilities:

•  Provide strategic guidance and leadership to our data and analytics team, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
•  Exercise comprehensive oversight to ensure the successful and timely delivery of high-quality solutions.
•  Lead the development of advanced analytics models, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to deliver innovative solutions.
•  Apply predictive modelling and statistical analysis techniques to extract actionable insights and enhancing the value of client solutions.
•  Drive innovation by identifying and integrating new technologies and approaches, enhancing the overall effectiveness and efficiency of data and analytics initiatives.
•  Remain abreast of emerging trends, tools, and methodologies in the dynamic field of data and analytics to ensure our team stays ahead of industry advancements.
•  Assist with business development efforts by understanding our client's business needs, challenges, and objectives as well as review and provide insight on proposals and listen to the client for cross-sell opportunities in other areas of the firm where possible.
•  Develop tailored, value-adding data and analytics solutions to meet client requirements.
•  Foster the development of data and analytics specialist skills within the Technology Assurance division, including:
• Providing training on various related subjects, on-the-job training coaching, and mentoring to enhance team capabilities.
• Advising on relevant training programs to further develop expertise in data and analytics.

Skills and attributes required for the role:

Skills:

•  Demonstrates sound judgment and decision-making skills, enabling effective and informed choices in complex situations.
•  Exhibits a risk-averse approach, ensuring a careful and considered approach to potential challenges.
•  Possesses strong leadership skills, capable of guiding teams and initiatives with clarity and effectiveness.
•  Demonstrates excellent communication and interpersonal skills, adept at conveying intricate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
•  Displays strong project management skills, including the ability to prioritize, plan, and execute multiple projects simultaneously.
•  Experience in client-facing roles, showcasing an ability to comprehend client needs and deliver tailored solutions effectively.
•  Expertise in developing and implementing advanced analytics models, machine learning algorithms, and AI solutions.
•  Possesses sound experience in data architecture, data modelling, and proficiency in working with relational databases.
•  Demonstrates expertise in creating impactful dashboards, visualizations and storytelling to effectively communicate impactful insights.
•  Sound experience in application development, contributing to big data initiatives, and implementing projects in cloud environments.

Personal attributes:

•  Passion for business, Information Technology (IT) and data
•  Strong desire to learn through diverse experiences
•  Time management, discipline, accountability, self-motivation and eagerness
•  Self-leadership, an enquiring mind and the ability to work under pressure
•  Team leadership skill, ability and experience
•  Excellent client relationship development and conflict resolution skills

Minimum requirements to apply for the role (including qualifications and experience):

•  Advanced degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or a related field
•  Proven experience of at least 5 years with a strong track record of driving successful projects and teams, of which 4 years must be in data and analytics.
•  Certifications in relevant technologies (e.g., Microsoft Power Platforms, Machine learning, AWS, Python, R, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics etc) would be advantageous.

Added advantage:

•  Honours or other post graduate qualifications
•  CA(SA), CISA or CRISC