Head of AI/Data Science

Full time, Remote position

The Head of Data Science & AI at fully funded startup is a transformative leadership position responsible for refining and scaling the company's data science and artificial intelligence (AI) function from the ground up. This leader will architect and deliver an AI-first ecosystem that integrates generative AI, machine learning, and orchestration to drive business value globally. The role encompasses strategy, platform development, talent acquisition, and the operationalization of AI solutions-balancing build, buy, and co-create approaches with technology partners. The Head of Data Science & AI will collaborate closely with business leaders to incubate, scale, and systematize use cases, ensuring that data-driven innovation is embedded across the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

Build & Lead a new created Data Science Organization

1. 1. Refine and scale a world-class data science and AI function, including recruiting, mentoring, and developing a multidisciplinary team of data scientists, ML engineers, platform engineers, and product managers while fostering a culture of innovation and experimentation.
   2. Define the vision, strategy, and roadmap for data science and AI initiatives aligned with Siepe's business objectives.

Platform Strategy & Delivery

1. 1. Architect and oversee the development of holistic AI platforms/solutions that leverage data science, advanced analytics, machine learning, generative AI, and automation.
   2. Evaluate and implement leading data science and AI platforms to accelerate model development, deployment, and monitoring.
   3. Build robust data pipelines, feature engineering workflows, and model management infrastructure to support scalable, production-grade AI solutions

GenAI Strategy: Build, Buy, Co-Create

1. 1. Develop and execute a hybrid GenAI strategy, leveraging internal development, third-party solutions, and co-creation with strategic partners.
   2. Drive the adoption of GenAI technologies, integrating them into existing products and creating new AI-powered offerings.

Business Partnership & Use Case Incubation

1. 1. Establish an operating model to engage business units, incubate high-impact AI use cases, and operationalize solutions at scale.
   2. Define and track success metrics for AI initiatives, ensuring measurable business outcomes and ROI.
   3. Champion data-driven decision-making and embed analytics into business processes.

Governance, Security & Compliance

1. 1. Partner with Data and AI Governance teams to ensure all data science and AI initiatives adhere to industry standards for data privacy, security, and regulatory compliance.
   2. Thought Leadership & External Engagement

Required Experience & Skills:

• 10+ years' leadership in data science, AI/ML, and analytics within fintech, payments, or related sectors.
• Proven success building and scaling global data science teams and platforms.
• Deep expertise in machine learning, generative AI, feature engineering, model design, MLOps, and cloud-based AI infrastructure.
• Skilled at integrating data science applications into software products and working with data at scale and velocity.
• Strong ability to translate complex technical concepts into business value.
• Exceptional stakeholder management, communication, and influencing skills.
• Track record of scaling high-impact AI use cases through buy/build strategies.
• Effective player-coach: hands-on problem solver and team facilitator.
• Experienced in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent.
• Dynamic, forward-thinking leader with a bias for action, experimentation, and rapid execution.