Head of Data Science and AI

Candidate Description

With more than 15 years of leadership across Software Engineering, Data Science and AI, this professional excels at scaling globally distributed teams and delivering data-driven products for high-growth organisations such as a Human Resources Platform, an HR Technology Company, an Accounting Software Company, a Utility Software Provider and a Financial Services Technology Provider. Their breadth spans SaaS, fintech, utilities and healthcare domains, underpinned by deep expertise in AWS-based architectures, machine-learning productisation and robust data-governance practices. Holding a PhD in Applied Physics, they bring strong analytical acumen and a proven ability to translate complex technical challenges into business-aligned outcomes.

Demonstrated technical mastery is evident through the launch of multiple AI features—including large-language-model-powered data-enrichment pipelines, churn-prediction models and automated document-extraction services—while architecting cost-efficient, scalable MLOps frameworks processing millions of daily inferences. Adept at Agile and DevOps, they have repeatedly accelerated release cadences, modernised BI platforms (Tableau, Microstrategy, Hightouch) and driven CI/CD adoption to realise measurable productivity gains. Their stewardship of multimillion-dollar cloud budgets and vendor engagements showcases sound fiscal management and strategic foresight.

Complementing technical prowess, they foster high-performance cultures through mentorship, structured career pathways and cross-functional collaboration, evidenced by >97 % retention and significant headcount growth in competitive markets. Whether pitching NZ $10 M investment cases to boards or securing 30 % extra headcount for AI-platform expansion, they consistently align technology strategy with organisational objectives. This blend of visionary leadership, operational rigour and innovation positions them as a catalyst for transformative, data-led growth in any forward-thinking enterprise.