Life as a Data Analyst in Singapore
Data science is one of the most in-demand and fastest-growing fields in the world. Within this field, the role of a data analyst is one that has steadily gained more attention. In Singapore, the demand for data analysts is even higher, as the city-state is a major technological hub and a global centre for business. In the last few years, data centre operations have grown significantly. Singapore is becoming a hotspot for data storage and processing and is ranked the fourth-largest market in the Asia-Pacific for Internet data centres behind Japan, China, and India1.
This increase in demand for more data analytics professionals has created more interest in the field. But what does being a data analytics professional entails?
In this article, we will look deeper into the exciting job involving data analytics. Whether you're a budding data enthusiast or an experienced professional pondering your next move, this will give you a glimpse into the life of a data analyst in Singapore.
What Does a Data Analyst Do?
A data analyst is a professional who is responsible for collecting, organising, and analysing large sets of data to extract meaningful insights and patterns2. They transform raw data into meaningful information, using advanced tools and algorithms to analyse, interpret, and visualise data. Beyond mere data crunching, a data analyst often helps make informed decisions, and contributes to business growth. Their role bridges the gap between the technical and non-technical, changing complex findings into comprehensible narratives that can guide strategy and innovation. Their expertise is essential across industries, including finance, healthcare, marketing, and technology, as well as organisations that rely on data-driven insights to make strategic choices.
Skills Required for a Data Analyst in Singapore
Technical Skills
A data analyst must understand the intricacies of business operations, aligning data-driven solutions with business objectives. They should also be well-versed in programming knowledge, especially in languages like Python and SQL.
Data Visualisation
With a growing demand to make sense of complex data sets, skills in data visualisation tools are crucial. Data analysts should be able to present information in an easily digestible format is paramount. Skills in tools like Tableau, PowerBI, or even Python's Matplotlib and Seaborn libraries empower data analysts to visually represent data.
Communication Skills
Data analysts must articulate their findings clearly, making them accessible to both technical and non-technical audiences. This involves crafting compelling narratives around data, facilitating data-driven decision-making at all organisational levels.
Analytical and Critical Thinking
Data analysts are problem solvers at heart. They require a keen analytical mind, enabling them to discern patterns and anomalies within vast data sets. Furthermore, critical thinking is vital, ensuring they ask the right questions, challenge assumptions, and approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset.
Data Analyst Job Market in Singapore
Does having the skills needed to be a data analyst translate into better career opportunities? This can give you some indication.
Job Opportunities:
The rapid growth in the digital sector offers a plethora of career opportunities and growth for data analysts. A data analyst can also branch out to different career paths such as data scientist, consultants, specialised analysts, or even go up to a management role.
Top Industries:
Finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and tech start-ups are among the leading industries hunting for data analytics talents.
Salary Insights:
According to Glassdoor, data analysts in Singapore can earn an approximate average salary of $12,500 per month3. With experience and higher education, this figure can rise significantly.
Trends:
Research indicates that employees' salaries can increase around 30% more with a higher level of education in the field4.
Data Analyst as an Expat in Singapore
Singapore's strategic positioning as a low corporate tax hub, notably the lowest in Southeast Asia5 and second lowest in Asia, has attracted numerous multinational companies. This has also brought in expatriates. Beyond corporate advantages, Singapore offers competitive non-residential tax rates, making it a popular choice for expat professionals.
Is Data Analytics a Good Career Path?
With the opportunity for a rewarding job and the ability to expand your horizons, being a data analyst is indeed a good career path. As the world relies more on data, you are not just exploring numbers, but unlocking future potential.
Want to increase your skills and knowledge in data analytics? Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) offers a Graduate Certificate in Analytics (E-Learning) with a curriculum designed to prepare you for the dynamic world of data science in Singapore and beyond.
Learn more by scheduling a call with our Student Advisors.
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