Principal Data Architect - HQ Sandton at The South African Breweries (SAB)

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning & Alignment

• Defining the Data Roadmap for Africa in consultation with key stakeholders, and future-proofing with Global roadmaps and Industry trends
• Ensuring alignment with business goals and IT strategies
• Evaluating and recommending new technologies, tools and methodologies to improve data management and architecture
• Lead stakeholder engagement sessions and provide material updates on the platform that include cost, new capabilities, and features

Team Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Leading the Data team, ensuring effective delivery and support for the relevant Tech Products, Analytics teams and Towers
• Ability to develop strong relationships with internal stakeholders
• Manage and work with diverse teams across Global markets
• Ability to work quickly, accurately, and consistently under pressure and communicate effectively to all stakeholders
• Support the business throughout the change process

Data Architecture & Design

• Designing, creating, and maintaining our data architecture to support the organization’s data needs and ensure the availability, reliability, cost, and performance of our data systems
• Developing strategies for integrating data from various sources and ensuring data consistency and accuracy across systems
• Database Management: Design and implement database structures, schemas and systems

Data Governance & Quality

• Establishing and enforcing data governance policies, data standards, and best practices to ensure data quality and compliance
• Identifying and resolving data-related issues, including performance bottlenecks, data inconsistencies, and integration problems

Performance Optimization

• Optimising performance, scalability, cost, and reliability of database systems

Minimum requirements:

• Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or a related field. Advanced degree preferred or equivalent experience
• Certifications: Relevant certifications, Azure/AWS are advantageous
• Proven experience as a Data Architect or similar role, with a strong track record in designing and implementing complex data architecture
• Experience with data modeling tools (e.g., Erwin, IBM InfoSphere Data Architect)
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, Databricks, Delta Lake)
• Background in Data Modeling, Data Engineering, Business Intelligence, Analytics
• Proficiency in database management systems (e.g., SQL, NoSQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL, DB2)
• Deep knowledge of data integration tools and ETL/ELT/Replication processes
• Deep understanding of data modeling (Relational and Dimensional), database design, and data integration
• Extensive Data Engineering experience to technically lead a DevOps Data team
• Strong understanding of Agile & Scrum with a proven track record of delivery
• Very strong problem-solving skills with an ability to manage complexity and ambiguity
• ​Proven track record managing all aspects of a successful product throughout its lifecycle