Chief Information Analyst

This vacancy, a re-advertisement within the University of Pretoria’s Department of Institutional Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, is for a Chief Information Analyst at Peromnes post level 6. The role sits within the Institutional Research and Analytics unit and is central to the university’s ambition to remain a leading research institution by turning complex institutional data into strategic intelligence. The successful candidate will lead the design and implementation of advanced predictive and prescriptive analytics models and dashboards, using business intelligence tools such as Power BI or Tableau, to support executive and operational decision-making. This is not merely a reporting role; it requires someone who can use SQL, Python, or R to conduct deep analysis, automate reporting, identify trends, and generate actionable insights for institutional forecasting, risk analysis, and strategy execution.

The position carries responsibility for developing, maintaining, integrating, and optimising business intelligence, data warehousing, and analytics systems. This includes working with data from PeopleSoft, HEMIS, HR, finance, and academic systems to create a secure, scalable, and unified analytics environment. The Chief Information Analyst will collaborate with business intelligence teams across the university to implement AI-assisted automation, cloud-based analytics, and robust controls for data quality, integrity, access, security, and system availability, all in line with POPIA and institutional IT governance. The role also supports institutional, external audit, and Department of Higher Education and Training compliance requirements by ensuring data processes are accurate, traceable, well documented, and aligned with governance and reporting standards. Beyond technical delivery, the incumbent will provide advisory support to faculties and administrative units, mentor junior analysts, strengthen institutional data literacy, and foster collaborative relationships with national and international peers.

To be considered, applicants need an Honours degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field, along with at least five years of demonstrated experience in SQL Server, ETL processes, data modelling, and dashboard development. They must also have proven ability to design data visualisations and prescriptive reports for executive and operational audiences, and to manage data systems, integrations, and reporting automation within complex organisations. The required competencies span data analytics, BI systems, predictive modelling, database management, SQL programming, data governance, POPIA compliance, higher education policy, and DHET reporting frameworks. Additional preferences include a Master’s degree, experience in higher education or large-scale institutional data environments, exposure to AI-assisted analytics and cloud platforms, project management or Agile experience, relevant certifications, and strong data storytelling skills.

Shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in skills assessments as part of the selection process. The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity, and diversity, and in line with its Employment Equity Plan, preference may be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups. All applicants who meet the requirements are invited to apply, and by applying, candidates consent to verification of their credentials, including qualifications, criminal record, and credit record.