Data Architect

Location: Emeryville CA (3 days a week)

Reporting to the VP, Development & Data, build and lead a team responsible for leveraging data-driven insights and advanced analytics to optimize decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and drive strategic business value across the organization.

You will guide the design and implementation of Grocery Outlet s data science, AI, and data governance programs ensuring robust data management, governance practices, and the development of innovative AI-enabled solutions that support key business areas such as merchandising, supply chain, marketing, and operations.

You will collaborate closely with senior stakeholders across Business Intelligence, Enterprise Data Architecture, and Business Solutions to align data and analytics investments with enterprise goals.

You are a visionary, strategic leader who sees data and AI as powerful enablers of business success. You combine deep technical expertise in data science, AI, and analytics with strong business acumen and excellent stakeholder communication. You are passionate about turning data into actionable insights that move the needle.

Experience & Expertise
12+ years of experience in data science, analytics, or data governance roles
5+ years leading data science, AI, or enterprise analytics functions at a senior level
Proven track record of successfully delivering AI and analytics solutions that drive measurable business impact
Deep knowledge of machine learning techniques, predictive modeling, statistical analysis, and data visualization tools
Strong understanding of data governance frameworks, data privacy, security, and regulatory compliance (e.g., CCPA, GDPR)
Experience building and scaling analytics and data teams within retail, consumer products, or supply chain organizations
Bachelor s degree in computer science, Data Science, Engineering, or related field required; Masters or advanced degree strongly preferred
Experience with SAP Data models and familiarity with various functions within SAP will be a big plus.

Leadership & Skills
Exceptional executive communication and stakeholder engagement capabilities
Collaborative and inclusive leader who builds strong relationships across business and technology functions
Skilled at translating complex data concepts into clear business insights and strategic recommendations
Metrics-driven and outcome-focused; disciplined in demonstrating the ROI of analytics investments
Strong team-builder and mentor with a proven ability to attract, grow, and retain analytics talent
Innovative thinker who proactively explores new techniques, tools, and industry trends

Strategic Leadership & Vision
Define and execute comprehensive data science, data governance and AI strategy aligned with corporate priorities
Act as an influential advisor to executive leaders and business stakeholders on leveraging AI and data-driven insights
Champion the responsible and ethical use of AI and data, ensuring that all initiatives balance business value with transparency, security, and regulatory compliance
Lead the development and execution of Grocery Outlet s enterprise data governance framework

AI & Data Science Development
Lead the vision and roadmap for advancing enterprise data capabilities and scaling AI, and advanced analytics across core business areas
Lead enterprise data development initiatives to improve data quality, cleanse and standardize master data
Drive close collaboration across the data team, business data organization, IT, and functional stakeholders to accelerate prototyping, testing, and deployment of analytics solutions
Stay current on emerging AI techniques, platforms, and trends; introduce innovation and best practices

Data Governance & Management
Establish and enforce standards, policies, and procedures for data quality, accuracy, security, privacy, and compliance
Oversee the design and implementation of data lineage, and master data management (MDM) practices
Collaborate closely with Enterprise Data Architect to ensure data availability, integrity, and accessibility across the enterprise
Define and publish KPIs and metrics for data governance effectiveness and maturity

People & Team Leadership
Recruit, build, and lead high-performing teams of data & AI engineers, and data governance specialists
Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning within your teams
Provide coaching and professional development to drive growth and career progression
Manage relationships and performance with external vendors, consultants, and analytics partners

Performance & Value Realization
Measure, track, and communicate the business impact and value of AI and data initiatives
Develop clear success criteria, metrics, and dashboards for analytics-driven outcomes
Partner with Finance and the PMO to quantify and articulate the ROI of investments in AI, data science, and governance
Ensure transparency, timely delivery, and alignment of analytics projects with organizational goals