Remote Lead Data Scientist - Financial Risk

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in financial services technology, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Data Scientist to spearhead their **remote-first** financial risk modeling team. This is a critical role based out of **Tembisa, Gauteng**, offering a fully remote working experience, allowing you to contribute from anywhere. You will be responsible for developing and deploying advanced machine learning models to assess and mitigate financial risks across various platforms. This position requires a deep understanding of statistical modeling, big data technologies, and the financial industry's unique challenges. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities and a passion for leveraging data to drive impactful business outcomes in the **Banking & Finance** sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of sophisticated machine learning models for financial risk assessment (e.g., credit risk, market risk, fraud detection).
• Mentor and guide a team of data scientists, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and business stakeholders to define project scope and deliver actionable insights.
• Process and analyze large, complex datasets from diverse sources, ensuring data quality and integrity.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence relevant to finance.
• Develop and maintain robust documentation for models, methodologies, and results.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior management and technical teams.
• Champion best practices in model validation, deployment, and monitoring in a **remote** environment.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in data science, with at least 2 years in a leadership or lead role.
• Proven expertise in building and deploying machine learning models, particularly in financial risk management within the **Banking & Finance** industry.
• Strong programming skills in Python or R, and experience with relevant libraries (e.g., Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Pandas).
• Proficiency in SQL and experience working with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop).
• Excellent understanding of statistical modeling, hypothesis testing, and experimental design.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience working in a **remote-first** setting, demonstrating strong self‑discipline and time‑management skills.
• Knowledge of financial regulations and compliance is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary of ** R**.
• Fully remote work arrangement with flexible hours.
• Opportunities for advanced training and conferences.
• Contribution towards home office setup.
• Access to cutting‑edge technology and research.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating **remote** team culture.
• Performance‑based bonuses.