Chief Data Officer Job Vacancy in Nairobi, Kenya – Banking & Financial Services

Job Description

Position: Chief Data Officer

Company: Barclays Bank Kenya

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Experience: 10+ years of senior data leadership experience

Education: Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Business Administration or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Banking & Financial Services

Department: Data & Analytics

Salary: SSP 3,500,000 – SSP 5,000,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Barclays Bank Kenya is a leading financial institution with a strong heritage of delivering innovative banking solutions across East Africa. As part of the global Barclays Group, the bank combines international expertise with deep local market knowledge to provide a comprehensive suite of services, including retail banking, corporate finance, wealth management, and digital banking platforms. The organization is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, sustainability, and technological advancement, positioning itself as an employer of choice for top talent seeking dynamic career opportunities in Kenya. With a focus on digital transformation, Barclays Kenya continuously invests in cutting‑edge data infrastructure, AI‑driven insights, and robust risk management frameworks to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. This commitment creates a fertile environment for professionals who are passionate about leveraging data to drive strategic growth, enhance customer experiences, and uphold the highest standards of regulatory compliance. Join a forward‑thinking team that values innovation, integrity, and impact, and become part of a legacy that shapes the future of banking in Kenya and beyond.

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Job Overview

The Chief Data Officer (CDO) will lead Barclays Bank Kenya’s data strategy, governance, and analytics initiatives, ensuring that data assets are transformed into actionable insights that support business objectives. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the CDO will collaborate with senior leaders across Retail Banking, Corporate Banking, Risk, Compliance, and Technology to embed data‑driven decision making throughout the organization. This executive role is pivotal in shaping the bank’s digital future, overseeing data architecture, data quality, data privacy, and advanced analytics capabilities. The successful candidate will champion a data‑centric culture, drive innovation through AI and machine learning, and ensure compliance with local and international data regulations. This is a unique opportunity to influence the strategic direction of one of Kenya’s most respected banks while contributing to the broader financial ecosystem.

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Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive data strategy aligned with Barclays Kenya’s business goals and regulatory requirements.
• Lead the design, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise‑wide data architecture, ensuring scalability, security, and accessibility.
• Establish data governance frameworks, policies, and standards to guarantee data quality, integrity, and compliance.
• Drive the adoption of advanced analytics, AI, and machine learning solutions to enhance product development, risk assessment, and customer personalization.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional leaders to identify data‑driven opportunities that improve operational efficiency and revenue growth.
• Oversee data privacy initiatives, ensuring adherence to Kenya Data Protection Act and global standards such as GDPR.
• Build and mentor a high‑performing data team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
• Represent the bank in industry forums, regulatory bodies, and partner ecosystems to stay abreast of emerging data trends.

Required Skills

• Strategic vision with proven ability to translate data insights into business value.
• Deep expertise in data architecture, data warehousing, and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
• Strong knowledge of data governance, data quality management, and regulatory compliance.
• Hands‑on experience with AI/ML tools, big data technologies (Spark, Hadoop), and advanced analytics platforms.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to influence senior executives and drive cultural change toward data‑centricity.

Education

A Master’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Business Administration, Finance, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as CDMP, TOGAF, or relevant cloud certifications are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in data leadership roles within the banking or financial services sector, with at least 5 years in an executive capacity overseeing enterprise data initiatives.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 3,500,000 to SSP 5,000,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health benefits, and retirement contributions.

Benefits

• Competitive health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Annual performance bonus and long‑term incentive schemes.
• Professional development allowance and sponsorship for certifications.
• Flexible working arrangements and remote work options.

Training

• Executive leadership development programs.
• Access to cutting‑edge data science workshops and conferences.
• Mentorship from senior technology and business leaders.

Working Environment

Barclays Kenya offers a collaborative, inclusive, and technology‑forward workplace located in Nairobi’s vibrant Central Business District. Employees benefit from state‑of‑the‑art facilities, modern collaboration tools, and a culture that encourages innovation, diversity, and work‑life balance.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their data leadership achievements through the online portal on the Barclays Kenya Careers page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a multi‑stage interview process, including technical assessments and leadership evaluations.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Barclays Bank Kenya is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any such characteristic.