Director, Data Science

Title: Director, Data Science

Location: New York City United States

Job Description:

• Possesses extensive expertise in statistical modeling and advanced data analysis techniques, along with a strong background in credit underwriting and the ability to leverage alternative data sources to build effective risk models.
• Thrives on experimentation and critical thinking, working collaboratively to develop innovative machine learning solutions that drive strategic decision-making and enhance customer experiences across the organization.
• Remote-first opportunity for US-based employees with the option to work in-person out of our Manhattan office

Zip is committed to a straightforward and transparent pay structure. The actual base salary will be determined by various individualized factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, experience, location, internal equity, as well as other objective business considerations.

The annual base Pay Range for this position is $220,000 – $260,000 USD. This range reflects our US national compensation (USN). Additional premium percentages may apply based on our tiered premium strategy.

Subject to those same considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a bonus and/or equity awards, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits.

If hired, employees will be in an ‘at-will position’ and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

Be a part of a team that reflects the diversity of our customers

We pride ourselves on being a workplace that provides equal opportunities to people of all ages, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, abilities, veteran status, and everything else that makes you unique.

Equally, we’re committed to ensuring our recruitment processes are accessible and inclusive. Please let us know If there are any adjustments that need to be made to ensure you have a fair and equitable experience.

And finally…get to know us

Zip Co Limited (ASX: ZIP) is a digital financial services company, offering innovative, people-centred products.

Operating in two core markets – Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) and the US, Zip offers access to point-of-sale credit and digital payment services, connecting millions of customers with its global network of tens of thousands of merchants.

We’re proud to be a values-led business and our values – Customer First, Own it, Stronger Together and Change the Game – guide us in everything we do.

What you’ll get in return

Zip is a place where you’ll get out what you put in. The newness of our sector means we need to move at pace and embrace change, and our promise to you when you join the team is that you’ll feel empowered and trusted to make big things happen quickly.

We want you to feel welcome and as though you have the support to be yourself, and care for yourself at work. Because it’s important to us that you make the most of the opportunities you’ll get to grow your skills and your career, and be surrounded by smart, friendly people and leaders that have your back.

We think these are just some of the best things about being a Zipster. We will also offer you:

Flexible working culture Incentive programs 20 days PTO every year Generous paid parental leave Leading family support policies 100% employer covered insurance Beautiful Union Square office with a casual dress code Learning and wellness subscription stipend Company-sponsored 401k match

What you’ll bring to the team

10+ years of experience, with at least 6 years in the finance or fintech industry or a PhD with at least 7 years of professional experience A bachelor’s degree in mathematics, finance, industrial engineering, statistics, data science, or a related discipline; a master’s degree in these fields is preferred In-depth knowledge of the finance and fintech sector, with a strong background in credit underwriting, fraud modeling, loan economics, and portfolio management You have experience building risk underwriting models that leverage alternative data, such as bank transactional data and specialty bureaus Expertise in statistical modeling, advanced data analysis techniques, and proficiency in tools such as Python, SQL, and R, along with familiarity in working with Databricks, Azure ML, Snowflake, and various databases A data-driven approach to solving complex business challenges, with the ability to break down difficult problems into actionable solutions Exceptional communication skills, enabling you to convey complex ideas clearly and effectively to diverse audiences, including non-technical stakeholders Proven experience in leading and developing high-performing teams, focusing on creating a transparent, inclusive, and collaborative culture Intellectual curiosity, decisiveness, and resilience in navigating ambiguity and complexity

Start your adventure with Zip

As part of the Data Science squad, you’ll be given free reign to experiment and think critically – and creatively – to develop best-in-class Machine Learning models that support business-wide decision making. We’ll look to you to understand the business problem, design and optimize the machine learning solution and deploy it in a way that adds real value to the lives of your customers and your fellow Zipsters.

The Director of Data Science will lead and enhance our Data Science functions, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of data science and risk management in a dynamic, remote-first environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the financial services industry, preferably in credit underwriting, and a passion for leveraging alternative data for underwriting. In this role, you will oversee our data science initiatives focused on core risk areas, such as credit risk underwriting and fraud detection, partnering with business leadership to address challenges related to customer acquisition, deepening customer engagement, and portfolio profitability.

Interesting problems you’ll get to solve

Work closely with Risk, Engineering, and Analytics leadership to chart the roadmap for core risk decision-making and strategy, collaborating with cross-functional teams to shape the strategic direction of data science initiatives Build and deliver advanced models for credit underwriting and fraud detection, utilizing both traditional credit bureau data and alternative sources such as bank transactional data, specialty bureaus, and employment data Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of data scientists and analysts, fostering a culture of transparency, innovation, and continuous improvement Ensure best practices in model development, deployment, and monitoring, while maintaining comprehensive documentation of processes, methodologies, and outcomes Communicate insights and model performance to senior management and stakeholders, ensuring alignment with business objectives and regulatory requirements Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies, driving innovation in data science applications