Senior Data Scientist needed at Discovery Limited

Key Purpose

• The ideal candidate will be tasked with the strategic implementation of AI technologies to advance the Vitality business. Emphasizing the deployment of Machine Learning and, notably, Large Language Models (LLMs), the role is designed to increase member engagement and refine personalization strategies. This individual will play a key role in leveraging the robust capabilities of Vitality’s Microsoft Azure platform, combined with the sophisticated analytics of Databricks, to propel innovative solutions across the organization.

Areas of responsibility may include but not limited to:

• Extracting insights from complex data sets using advanced statistical methods, machine learning algorithms, and predictive modeling
• Operationalizing artificial intelligence solutions, including the development and deployment of large language models (LLMs) to enhance business processes
• Working closely with various departments to understand business needs and translate them into data-driven strategies
• Working with Vitality’s Head of BI, Data Architect and Data Engineers to enhance Vitality’s data products and AI platform
• Staying abreast of the latest industry trends and technologies, conducting research to drive innovation within the company
• Contribute to the compilation of reports and presentations for the Vitality Exco, Vitality Board, Discovery Board and Group Exco.
• Develop and leverage key working relationships with various stakeholders across the business to support the aims of the organization.
• Mentor, support and train junior analysts.

Behavioural Skills & Competencies

The following competencies and behavioural indicators are relevant to the position:

• Strong sense of ownership and drive
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organize, analyse, and disseminate information simply and effectively.
• Strong ability to work with, analyse and communicate findings from data (top-down verbal and written communication).
• A passion for delivering results with a sense of urgency for rapid action.
• Excellent time-management skills with the ability to prioritize deliverables and manage stakeholder expectations.
• Well-versed in the ability to disaggregate issues and problem-solving.
• A critical thinker who is curious and eager to know “why.”
• Creative and innovative.
• Comfortable adapting and responding to change and a fast-paced environment.
• Strong abilities in dealing with unstructured problems and complex environments.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Good writing and reporting skills.
• Good people skills and situational awareness.
• Ability to cope with business pressures and setbacks.
• Ability to think with a commercial and growth mindset.
• Good sense of materiality with the ability to put things into perspective.

Qualification & Experience

• Bachelor of Science degree in Actuarial Science, Statistics or Data Science, with an Honours degree would be advantageous.
• 5-8 years’ worth of relevant work experience
• Advanced proficiency in MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint and MS Outlook and SQL
• Advanced experience in Python and R
• Data engineering experience would be advantageous
• Ability to communicate technical complexity to a non-technical audience.
• An interest in Behavioural Science and analysing large datasets.
• Desire to teach and grow more junior members.