Data Operations Lead

Axion•New York, NY

About The Position

We are seeking a Data Operations Lead to own the performance, structure, and scalability of Axion’s global data operations. This is a highly cross-functional, strategic role at the intersection of data excellence and operational leadership. The ideal candidate blends the structured problem-solving and analytical rigor of top-tier consulting with the executional drive and adaptability of a startup operator. You’ll be responsible for setting the vision and operational rhythm for Axion’s data organization, ensuring quality, efficiency, and alignment with the broader business.

Requirements

6+ years of experience across data operations, business operations, or strategy, ideally within high-growth tech or AI-driven environments.
Background in top-tier management consulting (McKinsey, Bain, or BCG) and/or startup operations with a track record of scaling complex systems.
Experience managing large distributed or offshore teams (50+ people, ideally India-based).
Strong analytical and quantitative mindset, comfortable with dashboards, KPIs, and process optimization.
Deep understanding of data workflows (collection, labeling, QA) and tooling (e.g., Labelbox, Scale, AWS, or custom pipelines).
Proven ability to operate autonomously, influence cross-functional stakeholders, and drive clarity amid ambiguity.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to engage confidently with executives and technical leaders.

Responsibilities

Lead Global Data Operations: Oversee and scale a data operations team based in India, ensuring quality, throughput, and accountability across projects.
Build Systems & Processes: Design and implement data workflows, reporting frameworks, and SLAs that enable consistent, high-quality delivery at scale.
Bridge Data & Business: Translate business objectives into operational KPIs and data requirements; partner closely with Product, Engineering, and Solutions teams to align on priorities.
Operational Analytics: Build visibility into productivity, error rates, and efficiency — using dashboards, root-cause analyses, and continuous improvement frameworks.
Leadership Development: Mentor and grow team leads in India to build a high-performance management layer; foster a culture of ownership, clarity, and speed.
Cross-Border Execution: Act as the connective tissue between U.S. leadership and India-based operations — ensuring communication, governance, and alignment.
Strategic Projects: Lead special initiatives related to data quality, automation, and vendor optimization to drive operational leverage and margin improvement.