Claire Tolmay has built her career at the intersection of science, business, and data, driven by a deep passion for applying analytics and artificial intelligence to solve complex challenges. Holding master’s degrees in Physiology and Psychology, along with a postgraduate qualification in Data Science and Business Analytics, she brings a uniquely multidisciplinary perspective to leadership in data and AI.
At Nestlé, Claire combined innovation with data-driven transformation, leading award-winning initiatives to combat malnutrition in Africa while pioneering continent-wide data systems, performance reporting frameworks, and global analytics implementations that informed sales, marketing, and digital strategies.
She went on to join fintech scale-up Ozow, where she established the data science function, developed AI-driven payment solutions, and advanced the organisation’s analytics maturity. At Games Global, she scaled analytics and AI capabilities, led large-scale cloud migrations, built A/B testing infrastructure, introduced AI-powered personalisation, and achieved SOC2 compliance through robust data and system controls.
In her current role as Product Line Head for AI and Analytics at Capitec Business Bank, Claire is leading multi-year programmes to embed AI into credit processes, client engagement, and SME growth strategies. Recognised as Data Analytics Leader of the Year 2024, she continues to champion inclusive leadership, data literacy, and the creation of measurable business and societal impact.
DataIQ asked: “How do you see the role of the data leader evolving over the next 12-24 months?”
“For me, the role of the data leader is evolving from laying the foundations to creating visible impact at scale. My journey has shifted from building teams, systems, and governance to focusing on how AI and analytics can transform decision-making, improve products and services, and create value for people and organisations. Over the next 12–24 months, data leaders in Africa will be called to do the same – moving beyond proof-of-concept into tangible delivery that addresses real economic and social challenges.
“I believe the African context requires leaders who balance innovation with inclusivity. It’s not just about adopting the latest AI tools, but adapting them to diverse environments, from resource-constrained operations to rapidly growing digital ecosystems. Equally, leadership will require trust, storytelling, and empowerment, ensuring teams and stakeholders see data not as a technical exercise, but as a catalyst for growth and resilience. This, I believe, is where Africa’s data leaders will make their mark.”