Product Manager

About the Role

Sanlam Business Intelligence (SBI) is a hub for insights, analytics, and machine learning within the Sanlam Life & Savings cluster. SBI is a large team, comprised of analysts, actuaries, data scientists and engineers who come together to drive data-driven solutions for Sanlam, impacting key business decisions and strategic value drivers like sales, retention, client experience and innovating on traditional actuarial practices in pricing and reserving.

We are seeking an experienced Product Manager, reporting to the Chief Data & Analytics Officer of SBI, to lead and evolve our Client Data Hub (CDH), a critical data asset that enables analysts, actuaries and data scientists to deliver strategic insights and innovation across Sanlam. This role combines technical leadership, strategic thinking, and hands-on execution to drive business value through data.

Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with stakeholders across Sanlam Group, particularly SLS businesses, distribution channels (intermediated and direct) and in SBI (Actuarial Analytics, Descriptive Analytics and Data Science) to understand business needs and opportunities
• Translate business needs and opportunities into the CDH vision, strategy and roadmap as the custodian of the Customer 360 Analytical view
• Oversee the evolution of CDH as a data asset that enables insights, advanced analytics, machine learning, and actuarial innovations that enable business to make data driven decisions that create business value
• Collaborate with and provide guidance to a cross-functional team of architects, analysts and engineers and ensure that delivery is high quality, aligned with business requirements and within the Sanlam data governance framework. Actively participate in technical discussions and solution design to understand implementation complexities
• Collaborate with SBI management to design, refine, and implement the target operating model for the CDH team and its primary internal stakeholders. Manage the product backlog and prioritize initiatives based on business value, strategic importance and technical feasibility
• Drive continuous improvement in data quality, accessibility, and usability
• Define KPIs and success metrics, continuously measuring product performance and optimising for efficiency and business impact.
• Measure and communicate the business impact of CDH initiatives on key strategic value drivers

Required Skills and Experience

• Deep knowledge of the insurance industry, an understanding of its revenue and profit drivers, working knowledge of how businesses, distribution channels and marketing can use data to drive value
• Proven experience in product ownership or management of data platforms/solutions
• An understanding (and willingness to deepen understanding) of data architecture, analytics, and business intelligence concepts
• Demonstrated leadership experience in managing technical teams
• Experience in stakeholder management across different organizational levels
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts into business value propositions
• Experience with agile methodologies and practices

Technical Knowledge

• Understanding of data modelling and data governance principles
• Familiarity with business intelligence tools and visualization platforms
• Understanding of machine learning concepts and how it can drive value in the life industry
• Knowledge of modern data architecture patterns and best practices
• Understanding of data security and compliance requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Actuarial / Business Science, Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field
• Relevant professional certifications (e.g., Agile, Data Management) are advantageous
• 5+ years of experience in data-driven roles
• 3+ years of leadership experience