Lead Data Scientist

Independence Pet Group•Scottsdale, IL

5d•Remote

About The Position

Independence Pet Holdings is seeking a Lead Data Scientist with hands-on experience in P&C or Pet Insurance pricing to join their growing R&D team. This is a senior individual contributor role responsible for leading pricing model development, driving analytical best practices, and serving as a subject matter expert in insurance pricing. The role involves owning projects end-to-end, balancing a portfolio of 2-4 concurrent initiatives across pricing, research, and model enhancement. The ideal candidate can independently run a project, ask pertinent questions, and communicate complex modeling work to both technical and non-technical audiences. This role requires close collaboration with actuarial, product, engineering, and business stakeholders, while also contributing to shaping the analytical culture of the team.

Requirements

Graduate degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Data Science, Actuarial Science, or related quantitative field and 2+ years of experience in a data science or analytical role OR 4+ years of progressive experience in data science or analytics.
At least 1 year of experience in P&C or Pet Insurance pricing (rate modeling, GLMs, segmentation, or related actuarial/data science work).
Strong proficiency in Python and SQL for data manipulation, modeling, and analysis.
Deep understanding of GLMs, regression modeling, and statistical inference.
Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment with a small, high-impact team.
Strong problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Snowflake, Databricks, or SQL Server.
Familiarity with data warehousing concepts.
Hands-on experience with WTW Radar, Emblem, or Earnix.
Experience building dashboards in Power BI or similar tools.

Responsibilities

Develop, refine, and maintain GLM-based pricing models and related regression approaches used for rate setting, segmentation, and performance forecasting.
Apply machine learning techniques where appropriate to enhance predictive accuracy and customer behavior insights.
Serve as a technical lead on pricing initiatives, ensuring methodological rigor and regulatory awareness.
Take a scoped project and drive it independently to completion, escalating questions or blockers appropriately.
Manage a rotating portfolio of 2-4 active projects, including pricing model builds, research initiatives, and support for regulatory filings.
Conduct exploratory data analysis to understand relationships across pricing, conversion, retention, and risk segmentation.
Perform advanced root-cause analysis using SQL and statistical techniques to investigate data issues and collaborate with engineering to resolve them.
Translate complex analytical findings into clear, actionable insights for leadership across varying technical backgrounds.
Present modeling results, assumptions, and recommendations to senior leadership in a way that is accessible and compelling.
Become an SME in a key area of insurance pricing, providing guidance to peers, leaders, and cross-functional partners.
Mentor junior team members and contribute to elevating data science best practices across the organization.
Demonstrate flexibility in leading or following depending on project needs, contributing to a collaborative and high-trust team environment.