Analytics
The practice of analyzing data to extract insights that can be used to improve business performance. Opportunities in analytics include roles such as data analysts, business analysts, and data scientists.
Data Analyst
A data analyst interprets data and turns it into information that can offer ways to improve a business, affecting business decisions.
Soft Skills:
Critical thinking, problem-solving, communication.
Hard Skills:
Data analysis, statistical programming (e.g., R, Python), data visualisation tools (e.g., Tableau, PowerBI), SQL.
Personality Traits:
Analytical, detail-oriented, curious.
View video
Data Scientist
Data scientists utilise their analytical, statistical, and programming skills to collect, analyse, and interpret large data sets. They then use this information to develop data-driven solutions to difficult business challenges.
Soft Skills:
Problem-solving, communication, teamwork.
Hard Skills:
Machine learning, statistical modelling, programming (Python, R), data visualisation.
Personality Traits:
Analytical, curious, innovative.
Data Engineer
Data engineers are responsible for finding trends in data sets and developing algorithms to help make raw data more useful to the enterprise. This role requires a significant set of technical skills, including a deep knowledge of SQL database design and multiple programming languages.
Soft Skills:
Problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability.
Hard Skills:
Database systems (SQL, NoSQL), ETL processes, cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud, etc.), programming (Python, Java, etc.)
Personality Traits:
Analytical, detail-oriented, patient.
Business Intelligence Analyst
BI Analysts develop and implement BI solutions that increase efficiency and improve decision-making process. They provide a clear picture of business performance based on data analysis.
Soft Skills:
Communication, problem-solving, decision-making.
Hard Skills:
Data analysis, BI tools (e.g., Tableau, PowerBI), SQL, understanding of business operations.
Personality Traits:
Analytical, detail-oriented, strategic thinker.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers create data funnels and deliver software solutions. They typically work in the research and development departments of companies to innovate and optimise their business.
Soft Skills:
Problem-solving, communication, teamwork.
Hard Skills:
Machine learning algorithms, deep learning, programming (Python, R), cloud platforms (AWS, Google Cloud, etc.)
Personality Traits:
Analytical, innovative, persistent.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts, also known as ‘quants’, work in finance using statistical techniques, numerical programming, and data visualisation to study market trends and financial models.
Soft Skills:
Problem-solving, communication, critical thinking.
Hard Skills:
Statistical analysis, mathematical modelling, programming (Python, R), financial knowledge.
Personality Traits:
Analytical, detail-oriented, strategic thinker.
Statistician
Statisticians use mathematical techniques to analyse and interpret data and draw conclusions. They design experiments, questionnaires, and surveys to collect data on people and products.
Soft Skills:
Problem-solving, communication, attention to detail.
Hard Skills:
Statistical analysis, programming (Python, R), data visualisation.
Personality Traits:
Analytical, detail-oriented, patient.
Big Data Architect
Big Data Architects design, structure, and maintain the big data environment on which the business operates. They typically work with large amounts of data that are difficult to process using traditional techniques, and they need to ensure that the data is easily accessible for data analysts and scientists.
Soft Skills:
Communication, strategic planning, decision-making.
Hard Skills:
Proficiency in big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark), data warehousing, programming (Python, Java), understanding of cloud platforms.
Personality Traits:
Analytical, innovative, strategic thinker.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators are responsible for the performance, integrity and security of a database. They are involved in the planning and development of the database, as well as in troubleshooting any issues on behalf of the users.
Soft Skills:
Problem-solving, communication, attention to detail.
Hard Skills:
Proficiency in database systems (SQL, NoSQL), knowledge of backup and recovery procedures, understanding of database security, familiarity with cloud platforms.
Personality Traits:
Analytical, detail-oriented, organised.
