Data Scientist, People & Culture, DIO

Company Description

Standard Bank Group is a leading Africa-focused financial services group, and an innovative player on the global stage, that offers a variety of career-enhancing opportunities – plus the chance to work alongside some of the sector’s most talented, motivated professionals. Our clients range from individuals, to businesses of all sizes, high net worth families and large multinational corporates and institutions. We’re passionate about creating growth in Africa. Bringing true, meaningful value to our clients and the communities we serve and creating a real sense of purpose for you.

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Data Scientist to join our Workforce Insights team, where you will help transform how the organisation understands, plans and develops its workforce.

In this role, you will apply advanced analytics, machine learning, Generative AI and modern data science techniques to solve complex workforce challenges. Leveraging Microsoft Fabric, Azure AI and large-scale people data, you will develop predictive models, AI-enabled solutions and actionable insights that support workforce planning, skills intelligence, talent management, organisational effectiveness and employee experience.

Working closely with People & Culture, business leaders, data engineers and technology teams, you will translate business challenges into scalable analytical products that drive evidence-based decision making and unlock measurable business value.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications
Postgraduate qualification in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Operations Research, Engineering, Econometrics or a related quantitative discipline.

Experience required

• 5-8 years experience in Data Science, Advanced Analytics or Machine Learning, with demonstrated experience developing and operationalising machine learning solutions in cloud environments.
• Must have experience working with Microsoft Fabric, Azure and modern enterprise data platforms.
• Track record delivering business impact through AI, predictive analytics and advanced modelling with the ability to communicate complex analytical concepts to senior business stakeholders.
• Develop and deploy advanced analytics, machine learning and Generative AI solutions to address strategic workforce challenges.
• Build predictive models and workforce intelligence products that support talent, skills, succession, productivity and workforce planning decisions.
• Leverage Microsoft Fabric, OneLake, Power BI and Azure AI services to create scalable, production-ready solutions.
• Transform large and complex workforce datasets into actionable insights, compelling narratives and executive decision support.
• Apply Responsible AI principles, ensuring solutions are ethical, explainable, secure and compliant.
• Partner with People & Culture and business stakeholders to identify opportunities where data science and AI can improve workforce outcomes and employee experiences.
• Contribute to the evolution of the Workforce Insights function by introducing leading practices in AI, analytics and decision intelligence.
• Experience within People & Culture, Workforce Analytics, Organisational Effectiveness or related domains would be highly advantageous.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Adopting Practical Approaches
• Articulating Information
• Challenging Ideas
• Checking Things
• Examining Information
• Exploring Possibilities
• Interacting with People
• Interpreting Data
• Meeting Timescales
• Producing Output
• Providing Insights
• Team Working

Technical Competencies:

• Data Analysis
• Database Administration
• Data Integrity
• Knowledge Classification
• Research & Information Gathering

Additional Information

View all current vacancies at Standard Bank Group →

1. Read the full job description and requirements on this page carefully before applying — tailor your application to what the employer actually asks for.
2. Update your CV and save it as a PDF. Make sure your contact details, most recent experience and qualifications are easy to find.
3. Click the apply button on this page to complete your application on Standard Bank Group's own careers site. The employer manages the shortlisting process directly.
4. Have certified copies of your ID and qualifications ready. Many South African employers request them once you are shortlisted.
5. Applications close on 12 September 2026. Submit well before the deadline — late applications are normally not considered.
6. Keep a record of what you submitted and when. If you have not heard back within a few weeks of the closing date, it is acceptable to follow up politely.

If Standard Bank Group shortlists you for the Data Scientist, People & Culture, DIO position, preparation makes the difference. Work through these steps:

• Research Standard Bank Group before the interview — look for their official website, social profiles and any recent news. Interviewers expect you to know why you want to work there specifically.
• Go through the job description above and prepare a specific example from your own experience for each of the main duties. Most interview questions will be drawn from what the advert emphasises.
• Structure your answers with the STAR method — Situation, Task, Action, Result. Concrete stories with measurable outcomes are far stronger than general claims about your abilities.
• Prepare two or three thoughtful questions to ask the panel — about the team, how success is measured in the role, or growth opportunities. It signals genuine interest.
• Plan your logistics early. Confirm whether the interview is in person in Johannesburg or online, and arrive or log in at least ten minutes early.