Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, analysing and interpreting data. With these elements in hand, a Data Analyst develops a marketing vision to help companies make informed decisions. However, the role of a Data Analyst is more than that: they can identify current and future trends through the processing of large datasets.

To become a Data Analyst, it is important to be organised, inquisitive and rigorous. The profession of Data Analyst also requires the acquisition of several key skills: good command of data analysis and management tools (SQL), and knowledge of programming languages (Python, R) and data visualisation tools (Tableau, PowerBi, Qlikview).

There are various training options for Data Analysts. Most Data Analysts have at least a bachelor’s degree in statistics, mathematics, IT or a similar field. A master’s degree is required to work in the Big Data universe. There is also the possibility of attending engineering schools specialising in statistics or Big Data. Online courses and certifications can be useful too. During their further education studies, students may sometimes be required to undertake internships or work-study programmes within a company to enable them to acquire real professional experience.

Data Analysts will use tools such as Tableau, Power BI or Excel to create interactive data visualisations to make it easier to understand results.

The difference between a Data Analyst and a Data Scientist is indicated in the job title: whereas Data Analysts generally focus on analysing and presenting data to assist decision-making, Data Scientists, as the name suggests, are scientists. They develop modelling tools and algorithms.

Data Analysts are primarily sought-after in sectors such as finance, health, technology, e-commerce and consulting services. With the constant development of digital technology, more and more sectors are hiring data specialists.

Thanks to their expertise, Data Analysts help companies by providing them with in-depth analyses, assessment reports and data-driven recommendations. A Data Analyst will thus play a guiding role in facilitating decision-making within the company.

A Data Analyst can progress towards more specialised roles in number of ways. These roles include:

• Data Scientist, with prospects for promotion to IT Architect, Business Analyst;
• Data Engineer, with prospects for promotion to Data Quality Manager or Big Data Architect;
• Holding positions of responsibility in management: team leader in data analysis.

Being a Data Analyst primarily involves working in an office within a Data team (generally in major companies) or directly in the company’s strategy department or financial department. A typical day involves collecting and cleansing data, analysing it and creating reports. A Data Analyst may also collaborate with other departments of that company to understand their data needs and be at the crossroads of multiple professions within the company.

The salary of a Data Analyst can vary depending on geographical location, experience, sector of activity and company size. A “junior” Data Analyst can typically expect an annual salary of between €35k and €45k, while a Data Analyst nearing the end of their career and in a permanent position can expect an annual salary of up to €87k.