The Lead Data Production is responsible for managing and optimizing data processing workflows for South Africa’s official TV audience measurement currency. This role ensures timely, accurate, and compliant data delivery through robust ETL processes, quality assurance, and automation initiatives. The position collaborates closely with Operations, Methodology, and Technology teams to maintain data integrity and support continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

1) Data Workflow Management: Oversee daily data processing pipelines for panel, RPD, and streaming data sources; ensure T+1; T+28 delivery.

2) Quality Assurance: Implement multi-layer QA checks, anomaly detection, and validation against BRC standards.

3) Automation & Optimization: Identify and implement automation opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce latency.

4) Compliance & Documentation: Ensure adherence to POPIA and BRC guidelines; maintain documentation for audits and accreditation.

5) Collaboration: Work with Methodology teams to operationalize changes; support Operations in incident resolution and root cause analysis.

6) Vendor Coordination: Liaise with data suppliers and technology partners to ensure SLA compliance.

Qualifications & Experience

6+ years in data operations or ETL pipeline management; experience in audience measurement or media analytics preferred. Strong knowledge of SQL, Python, and data orchestration tools (Airflow, Azure Data Factory). Familiarity with South African TV ecosystem, client governance, and POPIA compliance. Experience with cloud platforms (Azure/AWS) and big data technologies.

Key Competencies

Technical expertise in data processing; problem-solving; attention to detail; collaboration; leadership.

Success Metrics

On-time data delivery (T+1, T+28); QA pass rates; automation coverage; SLA adherence; compliance with internal GfK and POPIA standards.

What We Offer

Opportunity to lead data production for South Africa’s official TV audience measurement currency; exposure to advanced data technologies and industry best practices.

NIQ may utilize artificial intelligence (AI) tools at various stages of the recruitment process, including résumé screening, candidate assessments, interview scheduling, job matching, communication support, and certain administrative tasks that help streamline workflows. These tools are intended to improve efficiency and support fair and consistent evaluation based on job-related criteria. All use of AI is governed by NIQ’s principles of fairness, transparency, human oversight, and inclusion. Final hiring decisions are made exclusively by humans. NIQ regularly reviews its AI tools to help mitigate bias and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. If you have questions, require accommodations, or wish to request human review were permitted by law, please contact your local HR representative. For more information, please visit NIQ’s AI Safety Policies and Guiding Principles: https://www.nielseniq.com/global/en/ai-safety-policies.

Our Benefits

• Flexible working environment
• Volunteer time off
• LinkedIn Learning
• Employee-Assistance-Program (EAP)

About NIQ

NIQ is the world’s leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. In 2023, NIQ combined with GfK, bringing together the two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights—delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the-art platforms—NIQ delivers the Full View™. NIQ is an Advent International portfolio company with operations in 100+ markets, covering more than 90% of the world’s population.

For more information, visit NIQ.com

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Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At NIQ, we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that mirrors the rich diversity of the communities and markets we serve. We believe that embracing a wide range of perspectives drives innovation and excellence.  All employment decisions at NIQ are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We invite individuals who share our dedication to inclusivity and equity to join us in making a meaningful impact. To learn more about our ongoing efforts in diversity and inclusion, please visit the https://nielseniq.com/global/en/news-center/diversity-inclusion