Data Scientist

About the Role:

We have a current opening for a Data Scientist and are actively reviewing applications.

The Data Scientist will operationalize advanced analytics and AI capabilities for Ferrero North America.

The position exists to deploy, run and maintain the predictive and machine learning models developed by the Global Data Science & AI team - beginning with end-to-end Marketing Mix Modeling and VGO price elasticity - against North American data, and to translate model outputs into decisions the commercial organization can act on.

As the only data science resource in the region, the role operates with a high degree of autonomy. It works in close technical partnership with Global Data Science while serving NAM business stakeholders directly, without intermediation.

Limits: the position does not own model development, which remains with Global Data Science. It is accountable for model execution, validation, iteration and adoption in the North American market, and for the analytical support that enables the commercial organization to make data-informed decisions.

The position is hybrid and will be located in Parsippany, NJ.

Main Responsibilities:

• MODEL DEPLOYMENT AND OPERATION. Execute model runs on North American data using the platforms and applications provided by Global Data Science. Review outputs for statistical validity and business coherence. Iterate on data inputs and model specification where results require it. Maintain model performance over time and re-run as data refreshes. Identify where changing market or business dynamics affect model assumptions and adjust accordingly.

• BUSINESS TRANSLATION AND STAKEHOLDER PARTNERSHIP. Interpret model outputs and articulate them in business terms to non-technical stakeholders across the commercial organization. Support the decision-making cadence through which models inform commercial planning. Work directly with business teams without intermediation, and address challenges to results with reasoned explanation.

• DATA PREPARATION AND VALIDATION. Design and apply cleaning, classification and validation procedures for the North American datasets feeding the models — retail sell-out, eCommerce, promotional, pricing and media data. Ensure data integrity sufficient for modeling and work with data engineering to resolve upstream quality issues.

• ANALYTICAL SUPPORT TO THE COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATION. Provide ad hoc analysis and methodological guidance to business partners. Build reporting and self-service outputs that allow stakeholders to consume model results independently.

• PARTNERSHIP WITH GLOBAL DATA SCIENCE. Collaborate with the global team on model adaptation for the North American market and feed local requirements and findings back into global model development. Contribute to model development and enhancement where required.

• AUTOMATION AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT. Script automation for recurring analytical workflows. Identify opportunities to improve efficiency in data preparation, model execution and output delivery.

About You:

• Academic background: Bachelor's degree in a quantitative discipline - mathematics, statistics, econometrics, engineering or equivalent - required. A master's degree combining a quantitative foundation with specialization in data science or AI is preferred.

• Mathematical and statistical foundation - essential: Applied statistics, experimental design and the ability to evaluate model validity independently. This is the non-negotiable requirement of the role.

• Machine learning methods: Practical application of ML techniques to commercial problems, including the judgement to recognize when a model's assumptions no longer hold.

• Programming and platforms: Python is foundational and required. SQL required. Power BI or equivalent visualization tooling. Databricks is advantageous - it is the collaboration platform used by Global Data Science.

• Business communication - weighted equally with technical capability: Ability to articulate analytical reasoning in non-technical terms to commercial stakeholders, and to work with imperfect data while still delivering meaningful insight.

Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

As part of our recruitment process, Ferrero may use artificial intelligence (AI) enabled tools to assist with reviewing candidate applications. These tools are used solely to support recruiters by summarizing application information and identifying potential alignment with job requirements. AI does not independently screen out or select candidates, and it does not replace human judgment. Final decisions regarding candidate progression are always made by Ferrero recruiters and hiring managers.

What We Offer:

Careers with caring built in - discover our benefits here

The base compensation range for this position is $150,000.00 - $199,000.00. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors permitted by law. This range represents the anticipated salary for this position at this time.

In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other benefits.

About Ferrero:

Ferrero began its journey in the small town of Alba in Piedmont, Italy, in 1946 . Today, it is one of the world's largest sweet-packaged food companies, with many iconic brands sold in countries all over the world. Find out more about Ferrero at ferrero.com

DE&I at Ferrero:

Ferrero is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture in which all employees feel welcomed and appreciated and have the same opportunities. We believe all our people are equally talented in their own way. In nurturing the curiosity and natural abilities of our employees, we provide them, generation after generation, the means to succeed personally and professionally, enabling them to craft their journey at Ferrero. The diversity of our talents is what makes our work environment multicultural, innovative, and highly rewarding.

Find out more here

Ferrero is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable human rights laws. Ferrero will recruit, hire, train, and promote all persons without regard to race, creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity), religion, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, or history of disability (except where physical or mental abilities are a bona fide occupational requirement and the individual is not able to perform the essential functions of the position even with reasonable accommodations), citizenship, or any other protected characteristic.

Ferrero will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise the People & Organization (HR) Representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.