Job Description
As the Capability Head – iDNA, you will lead and mature our enterprise data and analytics capabilities, covering data engineering, governance, platforms, insights, AI/ML, and data product development.
You will drive the strategic enablement of data across the bank, ensuring that business units can access high quality data, leverage advanced analytics, and embed data-driven thinking in everyday decision making.
This is a high-impact leadership role with visibility across senior executives and a central influence on the bank’s digital and data transformation journey
What You Will Do
- Develop and execute the enterprise data capability strategy for iDNA.
- Lead multi-disciplinary teams across data engineering, analytics, AI/ML, governance, and data product development.
- Drive the evolution of modern data platforms and cloud-based architectures.
- Establish robust data governance, compliance, and quality frameworks.
- Partner with business units to unlock value from data and analytics.
- Build talent pipelines and uplift data literacy across the organisation.
- Ensure operational excellence, delivery performance, and capability maturity progression.
- Represent the iDNA capability at strategic and executive forums.
What We’re Looking For
- Proven leadership experience in data, analytics, or technology at scale.
- Strong understanding of modern data platforms, engineering, cloud technologies, and AI/ML.
- Deep experience in data governance, quality, regulatory requirements, and risk management.
- Ability to translate data capabilities into business value.
- Strong communication, collaboration, and executive influencing skills.
- A visionary leader who can build future-fit capabilities and drive organisational change.
Qualifications & Experience
Minimum:
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Data Science, Engineering, Computer Science, or related experience in the field
- 10+ years’ experience in data, analytics, or technology leadership roles.
Preferred:
- Master’s degree (Advantageous).
- Certifications: TOGAF, DAMA, Cloud (AWS/GCP/Azure), Agile, Lean, or equivalent.
- Experience in banking or regulated financial services environments.
Important Closing Date Note
Take note that applications will not be accepted on the below date and onwards, kindly submit applications ahead of the closing date indicated below.
15/05/26
All appointments will be made in line with FirstRand Group’s Employment Equity plan. The Bank supports the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities. In order for us to fulfill this purpose, candidates can disclose their disability information on a voluntary basis. The Bank will keep this information confidential unless we are required by law to disclose this information to other parties.