Assistant Director, Data Science

DriveTime • Tempe, AZ

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Data Science leads a team of data scientists responsible for developing advanced analytical solutions—including predictive analytics, machine learning, simulation, and optimization—to generate strategic insights and improve business solutions. The role applies technical expertise and an in-depth understanding of business processes to collaborate with business operations on operational and strategic plans. It also partners with IT, Business Intelligence, and other teams to improve analytical processes and systems.

The role advises senior leadership on data science solutions that support long-term business strategies; oversees machine learning model development from design through implementation; and builds relationships with academic and industry thought leaders. It works with analytical, IT, and business teams to develop enterprise capabilities, research emerging technologies and analytical techniques, identify resource needs, and recommend solutions that influence decisions and drive change. The position also directs the construction of complex datasets from structured and unstructured internal and external data and leads a high-performing team of advanced analytics experts.

Requirements

• At least 4 years of experience in data science, machine learning, or advanced analytics.
• At least 2 years of experience leading, managing, or mentoring technical analytics or data science talent.
• Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field such as Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Economics, Finance, Computer Science, Physics, or Chemistry, or equivalent practical experience.
• Advanced proficiency in Snowflake, SQL, and Python.
• Experience in stochastic modeling, machine learning, and advanced mathematical techniques such as neural networks, simulation, or graph analysis.
• Strong track record of communicating results, insights, and technical solutions to senior executives.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including communicating confidently with a wide variety of audiences.
• Strong business acumen and ability to collaborate with and influence business operations.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, including sound judgment, conflict management, discretion with confidential information, and the ability to build cross-functional partnerships.
• Intellectual curiosity, creative problem-solving skills, customer focus, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience using AI-assisted or automation-focused tools to support and accelerate data science workflows.

Responsibilities

• Advise senior leadership on data science solutions that enhance long-term business strategies.
• Oversee machine learning models through design, training, evaluation, validation, and implementation.
• Maintain relationships with academic and industry thought leaders to provide access to emerging ideas and technologies.
• Collaborate with analytical leaders on strategic direction, data exploration, emerging technologies, analytical techniques, and strategic assignments.
• Partner with enterprise analytical and IT teams to develop core capabilities and processes.
• Identify resource needs, including IT investments, third-party support, and additional analysts.
• Understand business direction, conditions, and strategies to recommend solutions that influence decision makers and drive change.
• Direct the design and construction of large, complex datasets using structured and unstructured internal and external data.
• Build and lead a high-performing advanced analytics team and develop its reputation as a skilled data science group.
• Collaborate with business operations to create and execute operational and strategic plans.
• Work with IT, Business Intelligence, and other areas to improve analytical processes and systems.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• 401(k)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Wellness program with coaching, activities, cash incentives, and medical premium discounts
• In-house gym
• Paid time off, including wellness days, holidays, and personal time for full-time roles
• Professional growth opportunities
• Competitive pay
• Hybrid work approach

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager