DataOps Product Owner - Johannesburg (Hybrid)

OfferZen is seeking a DataOps Product Owner to join their team in Johannesburg. This hybrid role offers the opportunity to contribute to the evolution of their data infrastructure and processes.

About the Role

This position is pivotal in shaping the future of OfferZen's data operations. As the DataOps Product Owner, you will be the central point of contact for all things related to the data platform. This involves understanding the needs of various internal teams and translating them into a clear, actionable product roadmap. You will champion the DataOps vision, ensuring that data is managed, processed, and delivered efficiently and reliably. This role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of data pipelines, automation, and the software development lifecycle, all within a DataOps framework.

The DataOps Product Owner will be instrumental in defining and prioritising the work for the DataOps team. This includes:

• **Product Vision and Strategy:** Developing and communicating a clear vision and strategy for the DataOps product, aligning it with the overarching business goals of OfferZen.
• **Roadmap Development:** Creating and maintaining a comprehensive product roadmap, prioritising features and initiatives based on value, effort, and strategic impact.
• **Backlog Management:** Owning and managing the product backlog, ensuring that user stories and requirements are well-defined, estimated, and prioritised.
• **Stakeholder Collaboration:** Working closely with engineering teams, data scientists, analysts, and other stakeholders to gather requirements, provide feedback, and ensure alignment.
• **Agile Execution:** Facilitating agile ceremonies, such as sprint planning, reviews, and retrospectives, to ensure efficient delivery of product increments.
• **Data Governance and Quality:** Championing best practices in data governance, data quality, and data security, ensuring that the DataOps platform adheres to high standards.
• **Monitoring and Improvement:** Overseeing the performance and effectiveness of the DataOps platform, identifying areas for improvement and implementing enhancements.
• **Market and Technology Awareness:** Staying abreast of emerging trends and technologies in DataOps, cloud computing, and data management to inform product decisions.

What They're Looking For

To excel in this role, candidates should possess a blend of technical understanding, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills. Key qualifications include:

• Demonstrable experience in a Product Owner or similar product management role, preferably within a data-centric or engineering environment.
• A solid understanding of DataOps principles, methodologies, and tools, including CI/CD for data, data pipeline automation, and infrastructure as code.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and their data services.
• Experience working with agile development methodologies (Scrum, Kanban).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• A proven ability to translate complex technical requirements into clear, concise user stories and product specifications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is beneficial, but relevant experience will be highly valued.

In South Africa, Product Owner roles, particularly those with a specialised focus like DataOps, are in demand within the growing tech sector. While salaries can vary significantly based on experience, location, and the specific company's size and industry, you can expect competitive remuneration for a role of this nature. OfferZen, as a prominent player in the tech recruitment space, often attracts top talent, suggesting this role could present a significant career opportunity. The hybrid model reflects a modern approach to work, common in many Johannesburg-based tech organisations.

• Proficient in JavaScript and frameworks like React or Angular.
• Experience with HTML, CSS, and RESTful APIs.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field.