FirstRand

Intermediate Data Scientist

Randburg Full time

Job Description

Supports the development, enhancement, and maintenance of regulatory capital models (PD, LGD, EAD) within the FNB Commercial portfolio. The role focuses on analytical execution, model monitoring, and compliance with Prudential Authority and Basel requirements, while working closely with senior model owners and business stakeholders to support credit risk and capital decision‑making and regulatory reporting requirements.

Capital Model Development & Maintenance

  • Develop, test, update, and document components of PD, LGD, and EAD capital models under guidance of senior model owners.
  • Perform regular model testing, monitoring, recalibration support, and audits to ensure model accuracy and relevance.
  • Challenge model assumptions, inputs, and outputs to identify potential improvements or weaknesses.
  • Maintain ownership of assigned model components in line with approved model methodologies and standards.
  • Analytics & Capital Insight
  • Translate defined business or risk questions into appropriate analytical tasks supporting capital models.
  • Apply statistical and quantitative techniques to analyse portfolio performance and capital drivers.
  • Support analysis of credit risk, customer behaviour, and portfolio trends to inform capital outcomes.
  • Validate and interpret model outputs and prepare supporting analysis, reports, and presentations for stakeholders.
  • Assist with compiling monthly/quarterly/annual regulatory reporting deliverables. 

Technical Execution & Data Preparation

  • Source, prepare, and reconcile data used in capital modelling and monitoring.
  • Perform data quality checks, validations, and investigations to support reliable model inputs.
  • Assist in the productionalisation of capital models and monitoring processes within approved FirstRand architecture.
  • Contribute to shared capital modelling tools, code libraries, and reusable analytical assets.

Compliance, Governance & Risk

  • Adhere to regulatory capital model governance, policies, standards, and frameworks.
  • Ensure ethical use of data in line with privacy, confidentiality, and sensitivity classifications.
  • Report and escalate data quality, model, or information privacy incidents appropriately.
  •  Identify and escalate modelling or delivery risks that may impact capital outcomes or compliance.

Business Collaboration & Delivery

  • Support engagement with Pricing, Origination, Collections, and Risk teams to ensure accurate interpretation of capital model outputs.
  •  Assist in delivery planning and execution of agreed modelling and analysis outputs.
  •  Engage cross‑functionally to support consistent and appropriate use of capital models across FNB Commercial.
  • Build effective working relationships to manage expectations and support knowledge sharing.

Mentorship and Professional Development

  • Assist and support junior analysts with modelling processes and analytical tasks where required.
  • Participate in capital‑related projects aligned to broader FNB Commercial analytical priorities.
  • Actively seek feedback to improve technical capability and business understanding.

Cost & Operational Discipline

  • Deliver analytical work within agreed timelines, scope, and cost constraints.
  • Support effective resource usage and identify opportunities to improve efficiency.

Experience Required (Data Scientist II)

  • Minimum bachelor’s degree in mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Computer Science, Actuarial Science, or a related quantitative field.
  • Minimum 2-3 years relevant experience.
  • Strong level of proficiency in SAS or SQL (SAS preferred).
  • Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Ability to present technical insights to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated experience in predictive modelling.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating within a team to achieve objects.
     

 

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.

30/04/26

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.