Role profile
Location: Johannesburg (hybrid: blend of work-from-home and on-site at client and office locations)
We are looking for a Data Science Principal who can join our team to conceptualise and deliver enterprise machine learning and AI use cases for large organisations in South Africa.
We work on modern cloud platforms for data, ML and AI. Our work spans the end-to-end data science lifecycle, including production deployment and MLOps.
Are you inspired to lead enterprise-grade AI delivery that solves challenging business problems? Are you inspired to shape how organisations use advanced analytics, ML and emerging AI capabilities to deliver measurable value? Then you will love it here!
Main Purpose of the Role
Data Science Principals sit on the leadership team of the Data and AI practice. They help set technical direction, shape the service offering and grow the team. They lead end-to-end delivery of enterprise data science and AI solutions, from discovery and design through to production deployment.
About the role
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- A tertiary degree (honours preferred) in a quantitative or technology field
- One or more data and analytics technology certifications at architect or practitioner level
EXPERIENCE
- 10+ years relevant experience, with at least 7 years in data science and AI
- Track record of delivering enterprise-scale ML and AI solutions
- Experience working with large South African organisations across multiple sectors
TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE
- End-to-end data science lifecycle and ML deployment frameworks (MLOps)
- Modern ML and AI techniques, including generative AI and LLMs and applied statistical methods
- Cloud platforms for data, ML and AI from one or more major hyperscalers
- Data modelling across patterns: ERD, dimensional, Data Vault and NoSQL
- Relational databases and strong SQL proficiency
- Data quality management and data-related regulations (POPIA, GDPR, BCBS 239) is advantageous
- Be part of the leadership team of the Data and AI practice, setting technical direction and shaping the service offering
- Conceptualise and frame high-impact ML and AI use cases with senior client stakeholders, translating business problems into technical solutions
- Lead the end-to-end delivery of enterprise-scale data science and AI solutions from discovery and design through to production deployment
- Architect and oversee the development of robust data pipelines that support real-time and batch ML predictive solutions
- Provide technical leadership and mentoring to data scientists, ML engineers and consultants across multiple client engagements
- Act as a trusted advisor to clients on data science strategy, ML operations and responsible AI practices
- Contribute to thought leadership and the continued growth of the Data and AI practice
- Strong problem-solving ability with the capacity to architect proof-of-value and production data-led solutions using advanced analytics
- Natural leadership and the ability to build trust-based relationships with senior stakeholders
- Excellent communication skills to structure problems, articulate solutions and influence technical and executive audiences
- Experience with design thinking, lean start-up and agile delivery practices
- Consulting orientation with a delivery focus and a quality-driven mindset
- Collaborative, proactive and resilient under pressure
About you
- Openness
- Collaboration
- Practical Focus
- Delivery Focus
- Empathy
- Assertive
- Resilient
- Approachable
- Professional
- Proactive
- Good communicator
- Able to work well under pressure
- Holds self accountable
- Organised
- Reliable
- Delivery focused
- Quality driven
- Flexible
- Willing to travel
Note: We give full consideration to every applicant's fit to this role, so if you decide to apply and you do not hear from BSG within a maximum of a four week period, please consider your application unsuccessful at this time.
