What Senior Data Team Lead Jobs are in South Africa?

• Bachelor's Degree (NQF Level 7) in a relevant field (essential)
• Postgraduate qualification in Data Management, Information Systems, or Business Administration (advantageous)
• Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) Practitioner or Master level, or currently working towards certification (highly advantageous)
• Exposure to AI governance frameworks or Responsible AI standards such as ISO/IEC 42001 or the NIST AI Risk Management Framework will be advantageous

• 810 years' experience in Data Management, Business Intelligence, or Enterprise Data Management
• At least 5 years leading enterprise Data Governance, Data Quality, Master Data, or Data Stewardship initiatives within large organisations
• Demonstrated experience implementing enterprise Data Governance frameworks in complex environments
• Experience establishing governance operating models, governance forums, policies, controls, and adoption roadmaps
• Exposure to governing data for AI and advanced analytics initiatives will be advantageous
• Proven ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders across business, IT, Risk, Audit, and Compliance
• Experience within the mining or heavy industrial sector will be a strong advantage
• Working knowledge of POPIA and other relevant data privacy and regulatory frameworks

• Strong knowledge of DAMA-DMBOK2 principles including:
• Data Governance
• Data Quality
• Metadata Management
• Master Data Management
• Data Architecture
• Experience with enterprise BI and data platforms including SAP BW/4HANA, SAP HANA, BusinessObjects, Tableau, and AWS Data Lake
• Knowledge of metadata management, data cataloguing, lineage, and data quality platforms
• Understanding of enterprise data architecture and governance best practices
• Knowledge of AI/ML data lifecycle concepts including model inputs, training data, model drift, explainability, and bias
• Awareness of AI governance frameworks including ISO/IEC 42001, the EU AI Act, and the NIST AI Risk Management Framework
• Understanding of mining value chain data will be advantageous

• Designing, implementing, and continuously improving the enterprise Data Governance Framework
• Developing governance policies, standards, procedures, and controls covering data quality, metadata, master data, privacy, classification, and lifecycle management
• Establishing governance councils, forums, operating models, and stewardship communities
• Defining and implementing enterprise Data Quality standards, Critical Data Elements (CDEs), scorecards, and remediation processes
• Leading Metadata Management, Business Glossary, Data Catalogue, and Data Lineage initiatives
• Driving Master Data Governance across key business domains
• Ensuring compliance with POPIA, legal retention requirements, records management standards, and corporate governance obligations
• Managing enterprise Data Risk registers, governance controls, audit readiness, and remediation activities
• Extending governance practices to support Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, predictive analytics, and advanced analytics initiatives
• Establishing governance requirements for AI training data, model documentation, monitoring, transparency, and responsible AI practices
• Partnering with business leaders, IT, Information Security, Legal, Risk, and Data Engineering teams to embed governance across the organisation
• Driving organisational adoption through stakeholder engagement, communication, awareness programmes, and training initiatives

• Strategic and enterprise-wide thinking
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills
• Excellent communication and facilitation abilities
• Analytical problem-solving capability
• Strong governance, compliance, and risk management mindset
• High attention to detail and commitment to data quality
• Ability to drive organisational change and continuous improvement
• Professional integrity and sound judgement when handling sensitive information

  Lead Generation, Data Research & Growth Specialist

Help drive business growth by identifying decision-makers, generating qualified leads, and supporting outbound business development across two UK-based executive search and recruitment businesses.

Location: Remote South Africa | Working Arrangement: Remote | Working Hours: 9:00am 6:00pm | Salary: R25,000 R30,000

Our client operates two UK-based executive search and recruitment businesses focused on business growth and market expansion.

The businesses are seeking a dedicated professional to support lead generation, prospect research, outbound outreach, and business development activities while helping generate qualified opportunities for the founder.

This role is responsible for supporting the growth of two UK-based executive search and recruitment businesses through targeted prospect research, lead generation, outbound email campaigns, LinkedIn outreach, telephone prospecting, and CRM management. You will identify target companies, source key decision-makers, build high-quality prospect databases, and generate qualified business opportunities.

• Build highly targeted prospect databases across multiple sectors.
• Source accurate contact information, including email addresses, direct dials, and LinkedIn profiles.
• Identify senior decision-makers, including CEOs, Managing Directors, HR Directors, Operations Directors, Commercial Directors, and Business Owners.
• Use advanced research techniques to find difficult-to-source contact details.
• Maintain clean and accurate databases for ongoing outreach campaigns.
• Build and manage outbound email campaigns.
• Upload prospect lists and segment target audiences.
• Manage campaign scheduling and monitor performance.
• Track open rates, reply rates, and campaign effectiveness.
• Continuously improve outreach through testing and optimisation.
• Identify and connect with relevant decision makers through LinkedIn.
• Manage outbound LinkedIn messaging campaigns.
• Engage with prospects and generate conversations.
• Support the founder's personal brand outreach activity.
• Follow up warm leads generated through email and LinkedIn campaigns.
• Conduct outbound prospecting calls.
• Qualify opportunities and arrange meetings.
• Maintain consistent call activity and follow-up processes.
• Keep CRM systems updated daily.
• Track outreach activity and lead progression.
• Manage reporting and maintain prospect records.
• Ensure all lead activity is properly documented.
• Use LinkedIn Sales Navigator, CRM systems, email outreach platforms, data scraping and research tools, AI platforms including ChatGPT, and Excel/Google Sheets to support workflow efficiency.

• Previous B2B lead generation experience.
• Strong spoken and written English.
• Experience sourcing decision-maker contact information.
• Strong internet research and data mining ability.
• Comfortable speaking with senior professionals.
• Highly organised and able to work independently.
• Strong understanding of digital sales tools and automation.
• Experience working with UK or international businesses preferred.

• Develop, implement, and oversee the global data privacy program.
• Conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) and ensure remediation actions are taken.
• Advise on all aspects of data privacy law, including data collection, processing, storage, and cross-border transfers.
• Draft and review privacy policies, notices, and data processing agreements.
• Manage data subject access requests (DSARs) and breaches in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Train and educate employees on data privacy best practices and compliance obligations.
• Stay abreast of new data privacy laws and regulations globally and assess their impact on the business.
• Collaborate with IT, Security, Marketing, and Product teams to embed privacy-by-design principles.
• Represent the company in interactions with data protection authorities.
• Lead and mentor a team of privacy professionals.

• Admitted Attorney with at least 10 years of relevant experience, with a significant focus on data privacy and protection.
• Expert knowledge of POPIA, GDPR, CCPA, and other major global data privacy regulations.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing comprehensive privacy programs.
• Experience in drafting and negotiating data protection agreements.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and data breach response.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex legal concepts to non-legal audiences.
• Proven leadership and team management capabilities.
• Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) or equivalent certification is highly desirable.
• Must be comfortable working independently in a remote setting, demonstrating strong self-discipline and time management.

• Highly competitive salary and performance bonus structure.
• Fully remote work arrangement offering unparalleled flexibility.
• Contribution to a leading technology company's global compliance framework.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development in a rapidly evolving field.
• Access to state-of-the-art remote work technology and support.
• Generous paid time off and flexible working hours.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Opportunity to build and lead a significant legal function.

Our client, a leading global technology firm at the forefront of innovation, is actively recruiting a highly experienced Lead Data Privacy Counsel. This is a remote-first position, allowing exceptional candidates to work from virtually anywhere within South Africa, though regular engagement with teams operating within the Tembisa, Gauteng region may be required. The successful candidate will be instrumental in shaping and implementing the company's global data privacy strategy, ensuring compliance with evolving data protection regulations such as POPIA, GDPR, and CCPA. This role demands a proactive legal professional with a profound understanding of data privacy law, cybersecurity, and risk management. You will lead a dedicated team of privacy legal experts, advising cross-functional teams on all data-related legal matters. This is an unparalleled opportunity to make a significant impact on a globally recognized organization's privacy posture, working in a flexible, digitally enabled environment.

• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive data privacy policies and procedures across the organization.
• Provide expert legal counsel on data privacy matters, including data collection, processing, storage, and cross-border data transfers.
• Conduct privacy impact assessments (PIAs) and data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) for new products, services, and business initiatives.
• Manage and respond to data subject access requests (DSARs) and regulatory inquiries.
• Liaise with data protection authorities and external counsel on privacy-related issues.
• Develop and deliver data privacy training programs for employees at all levels.
• Advise on privacy implications of marketing activities, AI, and emerging technologies.
• Manage data breach response efforts, including notification procedures and mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the legal aspects of data processing agreements (DPAs) with third-party vendors.
• Lead and mentor a team of data privacy legal professionals, fostering a culture of compliance and excellence.

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa with a minimum of 8 years' post-admission experience, with a substantial focus on data privacy and protection law.
• In-depth knowledge of South African POPIA, EU GDPR, and other international data protection regulations.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing privacy programs within a large, complex organization, preferably in the technology sector.
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and risk management.
• Experience in drafting and negotiating privacy-related agreements (DPAs, CCPA Addendums, etc.).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and ability to manage a legal team.
• CIPP/E or other relevant privacy certifications are highly advantageous.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to thrive in a remote work environment.

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, reflective of the seniority and critical nature of this role. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility. Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits are provided, along with generous paid time off. We support continuous professional development, offering access to industry conferences and certifications. Employees benefit from state-of-the-art remote working tools and a collaborative virtual team culture. Opportunities for career advancement within this global organization are significant. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and empowered.

Data Science Lead

ARC (a division of Badger SA) | George, Western Cape | Permanent | On-site

Lead AI that delivers real business impact.

At ARC, we're building the next generation of data, analytics and AI capabilities for Badger Holdings, including dotsure.co.za and Pacific International Insurance. Our mission is simple: use intelligent technology to create smarter decisions, better customer experiences and stronger businesses

We're looking for an experienced Data Science Lead to lead our Data Science team while remaining deeply involved in solving complex business problems through machine learning and AI.

This is a true player-coach opportunity. You'll guide a talented team, shape technical direction and personally deliver high-impact machine learning solutions from concept through to production.

What you'll do

As our data science lead, you'll lead a team of three data scientists and one machine learning engineer while driving strategic AI initiatives across the business.

You'll:

• Lead the end-to-end delivery of machine learning and AI projects from business discovery through deployment and monitoring.
• Build, validate and deploy predictive models across customer lifetime value (CLV), fraud detection, lapse prediction, pricing optimisation, claims prediction and customer segmentation.
• Work closely with stakeholders across underwriting, claims, finance and operations to identify high-value opportunities.
• Translate commercial challenges into scalable data science solutions.
• Ensure models are production-ready, explainable, governed and deliver measurable business value.
• Present insights and recommendations to senior leadership and executive stakeholders.
• Mentor, coach and develop the data science team while establishing technical best practices.
• Collaborate with data engineering, analytics engineering and ML engineering to deliver robust AI solutions.
• Contribute to ARC's evolving AI ecosystem across Azure, GCP and modern cloud data platforms.

What we're looking for

You'll thrive in this role if you combine technical excellence with strong leadership and commercial thinking.

REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in data science, computer science, statistics, mathematics, engineering or a related quantitative discipline.
• A postgraduate qualification in a relevant field is advantageous.
• Relevant cloud, AI or machine learning certifications (Azure, Google Cloud, AWS, Databricks or Snowflake) will be advantageous.

Essential experience

• 5+ years' experience in data science, machine learning or artificial intelligence.
• Previous experience leading or mentoring Data Science teams.
• Proven success delivering production machine learning models with measurable business impact.
• Strong Python and SQL skills.
• Experience across supervised, unsupervised and time-series modelling techniques.
• Experience owning the full machine learning lifecycle from problem definition to production deployment.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and business partnering skills.
• Experience presenting technical concepts to senior leadership and non-technical audiences.
• Knowledge of cloud platforms such as Azure, AWS or Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
• Understanding of model governance, explainability and responsible AI.

Highly advantageous

• Insurance or financial services experience.
• Experience with fraud detection, customer propensity, churn or CLV modelling.
• MLOps and production deployment pipelines.
• Snowflake, dbt or modern cloud data platforms.
• Azure ML, Vertex AI, BigQuery ML or Databricks.
• Exposure to Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs) or AI Agent frameworks.
• Experience working within regulated environments (POPIA, FAIS, TCF).

The kind of leader we're looking for

• You're someone who enjoys building as much as leading.
• You lead by example, enjoy solving complex business problems, and are motivated by seeing your models deployed into production where they create measurable value.
• You communicate confidently with both technical teams and business stakeholders, develop those around you, and continuously look for better ways to apply AI to real-world challenges.

Why join ARC?

This is an opportunity to shape the future of AI within a growing organisation that is investing heavily in data and intelligent technologies.

You'll have the opportunity to:

• Lead meaningful AI initiatives with visible commercial impact.
• Stay hands-on with data science while growing your leadership career.
• Work with modern cloud technologies including Python, Azure, Snowflake, dbt and GCP.
• Influence AI strategy across multiple businesses.
• Build and mentor a high-performing data science team.
• See your work move beyond experimentation into production.

Location

This permanent role is based in George, Western Cape and is an on-site position. Relocation support may be considered for the right candidate.

If you're passionate about applying AI to solve real business problems, enjoy leading high-performing teams and want to build technology that makes a measurable difference, we'd love to hear from you.