Data Analyst

Job Description Data Analyst Position :Business Intelligence Analyst Department :BI & Analytics Location : Cape Town Reporting to : BI & Analytics Manager Role Summary We are seeking a detail-oriented Data Operations Analyst to own the collection, processing, cleansing, mapping, and validation of data ingested into our SQL-based data environment. This role is critical in ensuring data accuracy, consistency, and reliability across business reporting and analytics platforms as we transition our data infrastructure to Microsoft Azure. The successful candidate will work closely with internal stakeholders, data sources, and technical teams to ensure high-quality data flows from source systems into our core databases. Key Responsibilities Data Collection & Ingestion Collect data from multiple internal and external sources (files, APIs, manual submissions, system exports) Prepare and ingest data into SQL databases using defined processes Support ongoing migration of data workflows to Azure-based services Data Processing & Transformation Cleanse, standardise, and transform raw data into structured, usable formats Map incoming data to existing database schemas and business definitions Apply business rules and transformation logic consistently Data Quality & Validation Validate ingested data for accuracy, completeness, consistency, and timeliness Identify, investigate, and resolve data quality issues at source Implement and maintain validation checks and reconciliation processes Flag anomalies, trends, or risks in incoming datasets Database & Data Management Work directly with SQL databases to query, validate, and maintain data Assist with schema updates, documentation, and data dictionary maintenance Ensure data integrity across historical and incremental loads Documentation & Process Improvement Document data sources, mappings, transformation rules, and validation logic Continuously improve data ingestion and quality processes Support automation initiatives to reduce manual data handling Stakeholder Support Work closely with analysts, reporting teams, and business users to resolve data queries Provide trusted datasets for dashboards, reports, and decision-making Data Quality Mindset High attention to detail and accuracy Strong understanding of data validation and quality control techniques Ability to trace issues back to source systems Leadership and Culture Manage own personal development through your PDP (Personal Development Plan). Request training and feedback on performance at least once a month and strive to improve based on these interventions. Adhere to and live the company's values. Be an active participant and ambassador in all culture initiatives and activities. Take responsibility for all issues facing the department, work as a team and mentor/coach new team members as required. Communicate with your line manager regularly and make recommendations on improving efficiencies and effectiveness in the department. Contribute positively to create a harmonious working environment for all team members. Build meaningful connections with all stakeholders. Soft Skills & Attributes Methodical, organised, and process-driven Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking Able to work independently while collaborating with technical and non-technical teams Comfortable working with large volumes of data and tight deadlines Clear communicator who can explain data issues in business terms Required Skills & Experience Degree or diploma in Information Systems, Data Analytics, Computer Science, Finance, or related field 14 years experience in a data, analytics, or systems support role (adjust for seniority) Strong working knowledge of SQL (queries, joins, validation, reconciliation) Experience handling raw, messy, or unstructured data Solid understanding of data cleansing, transformation, and mapping concepts Familiarity with ETL / ELT processes and data pipelines Experience with Excel (advanced formulas, Power Query preferred) Advantageous Exposure to Microsoft Azure (Azure SQL, Data Factory, Blob Storage, Synapse) Experience with Power BI or other reporting tools Basic Python or scripting experience for data automation Understanding of data governance, lineage, and documentation best practices