Lead, Data Analytics

About NZ Super Fund

The Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation manage a sovereign wealth fund dedicated to generating strong, sustainable returns to support New Zealanders' future superannuation needs. Their work focuses on innovative, impactful investing and sustainable finance, with a commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The NZ Super Fund was globally recognized as the best-performing sovereign wealth fund in 2024.

Role Overview

As Lead of the Data Analytics team reporting to the Head of Data Analytics, you will spearhead the Investment Group’s center of excellence in advanced analytics, quantitative modeling, and AI. This role involves overseeing the design, development, and implementation of scalable analytical models and tools that enhance investment decisions while championing best practices within the organization. Collaborating closely with IT and data teams, you will support and mentor citizen developers, report creators, and data consumers to uplift organizational analytics capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Data Analytics team to fulfill business requirements effectively.
• Drive the creation of innovative quantitative and AI-driven models aligned with strategic investment goals.
• Manage team priorities and resource allocation to balance user needs, strategic objectives, and value generation.
• Oversee analytics projects and algorithm development from methodology design through deployment and maintenance, establishing standards and best practices.
• Offer strategic counsel to investment teams regarding data and technology applications to enhance capability, efficiency, and risk management, distilling technical insights into accessible guidance.
• Collaborate on cross-functional initiatives with IT, Data Technology, and Data Services to tackle complex challenges.
• Provide education and support for citizen developers and other data users to build analytics proficiency.

Required Skills and Experience

• Extensive experience (7+ years) in advanced quantitative analysis, including statistics, data science, or financial engineering, preferably within finance, investment banking, or asset management.
• Proven expertise delivering sophisticated statistical, econometric, or AI analytics models into production environments.
• Strong commercial insight, critical thinking abilities, and negotiation skills.
• Competency in diverse data analysis, programming, and development tools, alongside solid practices in data collection, validation, and coding.
• Ability to creatively solve complex, novel problems without established precedents.
• Excellent relationship management skills and experience leading projects in collaborative settings.
• Outstanding communication skills, adept at bridging technical and non-technical audiences both verbally and in writing.
• Positive, team-oriented attitude with a constructive approach to internal and external relations.
• Familiarity with investment concepts and portfolio management is advantageous but not mandatory.

What We Offer

• An inspiring workplace united by a shared purpose of sustainable investment delivering strong returns.
• Competitive compensation including base salary, discretionary bonuses, and up to 8% KiwiSaver matching.
• Opportunities for professional growth through development programs, career progression, and job rotations.
• Comprehensive benefits including generous leave, parental support, and insurance cover.
• A flexible and inclusive work environment reflecting a commitment to equity and diversity.

Diversity and Inclusion

We actively encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences, including those seeking flexible arrangements or who have disabilities. The Guardians are dedicated to equal opportunity hiring and eliminating bias, recognizing that diverse perspectives enhance problem-solving and the fulfillment of our mission. We honor Te Tiriti o Waitangi by partnering with Iwi/Māori organizations and welcoming Mana Whenua to join our team, integrating Te Ao Māori practices into our culture for future generations.