Special Projects Consultant

Special Projects

About Discovery

Discovery’s core purpose is to make people healthier and to enhance and protect their lives. We seek out and invest in exceptional individuals who understand and support our core purpose, and whose own values align with those of Discovery. Our fast-paced and dynamic environment enables smart, self-driven people to be their best. As global thought leaders, Discovery is passionate about innovating in order to not only achieve financial success, but to ignite positive and meaningful change within our society.

About Discovery Vitality RSA

Vitality is at the heart of Discovery’s shared value model and aims to reward members for positive behaviour change. Vitality is a global thought leader in wellness and encourages members to live healthier lives. Vitality operates in a fast-paced and agile environment and has remained at the forefront of wellness thought leadership by delivering cutting edge innovation through bi-annual product launches. Within the team of 500+ creative minds, projects span across all areas, including marketing, finance, data, people, MIS and actuarial, operations, systems, strategic programs and wellness – providing opportunities for a holistic experience. Vitality partners with leading partners to provide members with a superior rewards experience, providing a dazzling service to our members. In all they do, Vitality people pride themselves in living the Discovery values and championing its core purpose of making people healthier and enhancing and protecting their lives whilst being the everyday ambassadors.

Key purpose of the role

The Special Projects Associate Specialist will support and manage strategic initiatives and special projects across various departments, directly supporting the CEO's office. This role involves coordinating resources, managing project timelines, and ensuring successful project completion. The Special Projects Associate Specialist will work closely with senior leadership to drive efficiencies, implement innovative solutions, and support strategic goals.

Areas of responsibility

The successful candidate will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following job functions:

• Project Support: Assist in planning, organizing, and managing high-risk projects to achieve specific objectives. Ensure all required business/project documentation is delivered.
• Compliance and Governance: Support governance-related responsibilities and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and internal policies.
• Data Analytics and Actuarial Analysis: Utilize statistical and actuarial techniques to support product design, innovation, and strategic decision-making.
• Strategic Initiatives: Participate in strategic debates, support the implementation of strategic initiatives, and drive efficiencies within the organization.
• Stakeholder Management: Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project alignment and successful outcomes.
• Executive Support: Provide direct support to the CEO's office, including preparing reports, conducting research, and assisting with high-level decision-making processes.

Competencies

• Analytical Skills: Strong problem-solving and research abilities.
• Project Coordination: Good organizational and planning skills, with experience in supporting complex projects.
• Communication: Effective written and verbal communication skills for executive-level delivery.
• Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of SQL, statistical modelling tools (SPSS, R, Python), and advanced Excel.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and contribute to long-term planning.
• Adaptability: Ability to deal with ambiguity and continuous change.
• Executive Presence: Ability to interact confidently with senior leadership and present information clearly and professionally.

Education and Experience

• Education: Relevant tertiary qualification, nearly or newly qualified actuary preferred.
• Experience: 2-5 years of experience in project management, and / or data analytics within the financial services industry or 3 years experience in management consulting at a leading consulting/advisory firm

Personal attributes

• Self-Driven: A self-starter with a positive, can-do attitude.
• Team Player: Ability to work cohesively in a team environment and balance multiple priorities.
• Ethical: Maintain confidentiality and manage boundaries effectively.
• Innovative: Passion for personal development and growth, with a high learning potential.
• Professionalism: Demonstrate a high level of professionalism and discretion in all interactions.

EMPLOYMENT EQUITY   
                             
The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.