Director, Data Science

Data Science Leadership Role

The role provides strategic leadership for the application of advanced analytics, statistical modeling, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to drive business outcomes and support organizational objectives. This role leads the development and execution of data science initiatives, establishes analytical frameworks and methodologies, and guides teams in transforming complex data into actionable insights that inform enterprise decision-making.

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Leads the development and execution of data science strategies, programs, and priorities that support business objectives and contribute to organizational performance.

• Directs the design, development, and implementation of advanced analytical models, predictive algorithms, machine learning solutions, and AI-driven capabilities to address complex business challenges and opportunities.

• Oversees the collection, preparation, analysis, and interpretation of large and complex datasets to identify trends, risks, opportunities, and actionable insights.

• Establishes and maintains data science methodologies, modeling standards, governance practices, and analytical frameworks that promote consistency, accuracy, scalability, and business value.

• Partners with senior leaders and cross-functional stakeholders to translate strategic objectives into data-driven solutions, influencing decisions and prioritization across multiple business areas.

• Evaluates existing and emerging data science technologies, techniques, and industry practices, recommending innovations that enhance analytical capabilities and organizational effectiveness.

• Provides leadership for the development of data visualization, reporting, and communication strategies that effectively convey complex findings to technical and non-technical audiences.

• Oversees multiple data science initiatives, processes, or programs, ensuring delivery against objectives, timelines, budgets, and organizational priorities.

• Develops and manages departmental plans, resource allocation, budgets, and performance metrics to ensure effective execution of operational and strategic goals.

• Builds, leads, and develops high-performing teams by establishing clear expectations, fostering professional growth, and creating a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Typical Scope:

• Works on issues requiring conceptual thinking and deep understanding of organizational objectives. Routinely exercises significant judgment on moderate to complex business problems. Influences timelines, expectations, and negotiates across departments and functional management. Interacts with executive leadership on strategic matters. Responsible for strategy execution and operational direction of a business function or sub function. Supports strategy development and ensures alignment with organizational goals. Oversees the creation and implementation of functional strategies and objectives, ensuring execution within budget and policy frameworks.

• Possesses expert level understanding of their functional area and competent knowledge of the broader organization and competitive environment. Has broad knowledge across multiple disciplines. Accountable for multiple processes or programs and contributes to the development of budgets, policies, and procedures that support the functional infrastructure.

• Manages a small department or large team, typically through subordinate Senior Managers and Managers. Develops staff for both current and long-term departmental needs. Manages costs, planning, and staffing. Builds tactical and strategic relationships across the organization.

• 4 - 7 Senior Managers, Managers, Assistant Managers and/or Staff Professionals and below reporting to them.

Education & Experience:

• Required Education: Bachelor's degree in field relevant to role (or 4 additional years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree), advanced degree preferred.

• Required Experience: 8 + years of relevant experience, 4+ years as a People Leader.

• Deep expertise in statistical analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning techniques, data mining, and advanced analytical methodologies.

• Strong understanding of data architecture, data governance, data quality practices, and large-scale data environments.

• Demonstrated ability to influence senior leaders, build cross-functional partnerships, and align analytical initiatives with business strategy.

• Experience managing complex projects, programs, budgets, and resources across multiple priorities and stakeholder groups.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into meaningful business insights and recommendations.

• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, and organizational leadership capabilities.

• Knowledge of industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving practices related to data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.

Location: Hills Borough, OR Marlborough/Chelmsford, MA

Target Compensation: $184,000 - $220,500

Schedule: Monday- Friday : 8am - 5pm

Employee Benefits: Employees are eligible for: • Traditional medical, dental, and vision coverage • Generous 401(k) match • Paid Time Off: You'll accrue up to 15 days in your first year. In addition, you'll receive 40 hours of sick time and 3 personal days, which refresh annually • Paid federal holidays • Special employee pricing on lending products such as mortgage, auto, and personal loans (eligibility subject to standard account requirements and underwriting criteria)

Employment Statements: First Tech is an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity, inclusion, and equity at our company. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.