Job Description

Let's Write Africa's Story Together!

Old Mutual is a firm believer in the African opportunity and our diverse talent reflects this.

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Symmetry is a business in build mode, evolving, growing and redefining what investment solutions should look like.

We are looking for a Data Scientist to join our Technology and Data team. The incumbent must have 5 to 7 years of experience in Data Science, preferably within the Financial Services or Investment industry, and should be passionate about applying machine learning, predictive analytics and quantitative methods to financial and investment challenges. You will support data-driven investment insights and help enhance portfolio construction, manager evaluation and performance analytics, working closely with portfolio managers, investment analysts and risk professionals.

The successful incumbent must be adept at handling large, complex datasets, developing and applying robust analytical processes including data cleansing, data interpretation models, forecasting, pattern identification and trend analysis.

The role requires solid technical skills, practical understanding of financial data and the ability to collaborate effectively across teams.

Key Responsibilities:

End-to-End Analytics Solution Ownership

• Lead the design, development, deployment and ongoing monitoring of investment-related analytics and machine learning solutions.
• Ensure models are robust, explainable and production-ready, with appropriate governance, documentation and alignment with regulatory and internal standards.

Applied Analytics & Investment Data Modelling

• Develop and maintain analytical models and data-driven insights that support manager research, portfolio analysis and investment decision processes.
• Work closely with quantitative specialists and investment teams to translate analytical requirements into scalable solutions, leveraging statistical and machine learning techniques where appropriate.

Data Architecture & Infrastructure Collaboration

• Define architecture needs, work with engineering and cloud teams to build scalable, high-performance data pipelines, warehouses and platforms.

Governance & Model Risk Management

• Establish best practices for model validation, CI/CD, MLOps and ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance, reliability and data quality.

Cross-Functional Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as a bridge between Investment, DFM, Product, Operations and Technology and Data teams; communicate insights clearly and mentor junior data scientists.

AI Literacy & Capability Building

• Promote understanding and adoption of AI and data-driven approaches across the business, providing training, workshops and guidance.

Qualifications and Experience required

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Financial Engineering, or a related field.
• 5 to 7 years of experience in Data Science or advanced analytics, preferably within Financial Services, Investment Management and/or Economics environment.
• Data Science / Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning Certifications (Preferred)
• Experience in building and deploying machine learning and AI models in production environments.
• Expertise in Python, SQL, (R optional) and other relevant programming languages for data science and quantitative research.
• Experience with machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, XGBoost, or similar).
• Exposure to cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure etc.) and distributed computing (Spark, Dask etc.)
• Experience with big data technologies (Hadoop, Snowflake, Databricks) and data engineering best practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate complex investment data into actionable insights.
• Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
• Mentoring capabilities to guide junior data scientists/analysts/engineers.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to embed data science practices in a purpose-led investment business.
• Exposure to diverse investment strategies and real-world financial applications.
• A collaborative and innovative team culture.
• Flexibility and growth potential in a supportive environment.

Skills

Action Planning, Business Requirements Analysis, Computer Literacy, Data Compilation, Data Controls, Data Management, Executing Plans, IT Architecture, IT Network Security, Policies & Procedures

Competencies

Business InsightCultivates InnovationDrives ResultsManages AmbiguityManages ComplexityPlans and AlignsSituational AdaptabilityStrategic Mindset

Education

NQF Level 7 - Degree, Advance Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate or equivalent

Closing Date

05 April 2026 , 23:59

The appointment will be made from the designated group in line with the Employment Equity Plan of Old Mutual South Africa and the specific business unit in question.

The Old Mutual Story!