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 DescriptionThe Data Scientist will drive the design, development, adoption, and deployment of advanced analytics and AI solutions across all business units in the bank. The role will be responsible for collaborating with a team of data scientists in developing AI/ML models at scale, ensuring model governance and regulatory compliance, and supporting business units to embed AI into products, processes, and decision-making. The ideal candidate is both a strong technical leader and a strategic business partner.
- Support the development and execution of the bank’s Data Science & AI strategy in alignment with strategic business goals.
- Coordinate a team of data scientists and machine learning/AI developers in driving AI implementation across business and operations..
- Collaborate with senior business leaders to identify high-impact and emerging AI opportunities to gain a competitive edge.
- Oversee end-to-end delivery of machine learning models: data sourcing, feature engineering, model development, evaluation, deployment, and monitoring.
- Work closely with Data Engineering to ensure high-quality datasets for modeling.
- Ensure all models comply with internal model risk guidelines, CBN requirements, and global best practices.
- Stay updated with global AI trends, tools, and frameworks (GenAI, LLMs, RAG, agents, reinforcement learning).
- Lead Proof of Concept (PoC) and pilot initiatives for new AI capabilities.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field.
- Master’s Degree and/or professional certifications (e.g., Azure ML, AWS ML, TensorFlow, Databricks, SAS, Agent orchestration, Microsoft Fabrics) can be an advantage.
Experience:
- 6–8 years of experience in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Machine Learning.
- Minimum 3 years in a senior technical role.
- Experience in banking or financial services is strongly preferred.
- Proven track record of training and deploying ML and AI models to production at scale.
- Demonstrated experience with cloud platforms (particularly Microsoft Azure) and modern ML/AI tooling.
Behavioural Competencies:
- Adopting Practical Approaches
- Articulating Information
- Challenging Ideas
- Developing Expertise
- Documenting Facts
- Embracing Change
- Interpreting Data
- Managing Tasks
Technical Competencies:
- Big Data Frameworks and Tools
- Data Engineering
- Data Integrity
- IT Knowledge
- Stakeholder Management (IT)
Skills Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related field
- 6–8 years of experience in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, or Machine Learning
- At least 3 years of experience in a senior technical role
- Proven experience training and deploying machine learning and AI models to production at scale
- Demonstrated experience with cloud platforms, particularly Microsoft Azure, and modern ML/AI tooling
- Experience in banking or financial services
- Master’s degree
- Professional certifications such as Azure ML, AWS ML, TensorFlow, Databricks, SAS, agent orchestration, or Microsoft Fabric
Standard Bank Group Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Standard Bank Group and has not been reviewed or approved by Standard Bank Group.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Leave options span vacation, study, parental, compassionate/family responsibility, sick/short‑term incapacity, sabbatical, recognition and optional unpaid leave, subject to country practices. This breadth provides flexibility to manage family, study, health, and rest needs.
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Healthcare Strength — Core protection includes medical cover and death/incapacity insurance, with many markets offering permanent health insurance and optional life/funeral or gap‑cover add‑ons. Wellness and counselling programs further strengthen day‑to‑day health support.
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Fair & Transparent Compensation — Formal remuneration materials emphasize equal pay for work of equal value, structured market alignment, and pay‑equity analyses alongside clawback/forfeiture provisions. This governance signals predictable, fairness‑oriented pay practices.
Standard Bank Group Insights
What We Do
As a brand with a legacy of 161 years in Africa, we have a deep understanding and belief in the boundless opportunities that this continent presents. Our vision extends beyond mere geography; it encompasses a profound recognition of the potential for growth that resonates within our people, customers, entrepreneurs, and all who share our unwavering commitment and passion for investing in Africa. With a presence in 20 countries across sub-Saharan Africa, we have cultivated a diverse community of the most skilled, innovative, and creative minds in the industry. Our purpose is to drive Africa's growth, acting as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic development in the regions we serve. We strive to improve the lives of our fellow Africans by conducting business in an ethical and responsible manner. As a trusted partner, we consistently set higher standards and aspire to become better with each endeavour. We are more than just a banking institution; we are a driving force behind Africa's growth. Join us on this transformative journey. Together, we have the collective power to propel Africa into the future, making tangible progress for all who proudly call Africa home.
