VP, Data Science / Machine learning and Generative AI

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a holistic, impactful, and forward-looking AI strategy that aligns data science, ML, and generative AI initiatives with business goals.
• Build and lead high-performing teams by recruiting, mentoring, and managing data science, machine learning, and AI professionals, fostering a collaborative and innovative culture.
• Define and track KPIs to assess the success of AI initiatives, delivering actionable insights and driving continuous improvement.
• Manage end-to-end data science and ML project lifecycles, from problem definition to model optimization, ensuring adoption of advanced techniques and scalable infrastructure.
• Collaborate with cross-functional and senior leaders to translate business needs into AI solutions, communicate complex concepts, and advocate for technology investments.
• Educate and inspire employees on generative AI's benefits, delivering presentations and motivating organizational change.
• Lead the implementation of cutting-edge ML techniques and robust MLOps practices to ensure scalable, reliable AI solutions.
• Continuously monitor and evaluate emerging AI technologies, providing strategic recommendations and leading adoption where beneficial.

Requirements

• Minimum of 15 years experience in leadership spanning Business Management, Strategy, Operations, and technical areas such as Data Science, Machine Learning, Generative AI, and software engineering.
• At least 7 years of senior leadership or management experience overseeing large-scale data science or ML teams.
• Deep expertise and hands-on experience across a wide spectrum of machine learning techniques and applications, including recommendation systems, auction, sort, pricing, and marketing optimization.
• Strong practical experience and strategic understanding of Generative AI (e.g., LLMs, Transformers, diffusion models, GANs), including fine-tuning, prompt engineering, RAG architectures, and ethical considerations.
• Proven track record of delivering impactful AI/ML solutions that drive significant business value.
• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to influence at a senior level and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills to translate complex technical concepts for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Understanding of core data science programming languages (e.g., Python, R) and relevant libraries/frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn, Hugging Face).
• Substantial experience with major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and MLOps principles for deploying and managing ML models at scale.

Nice to Have

• Experience with deploying AI solutions in a travel or related industry context.
• Familiarity with ethical AI development and responsible AI practices.
• Experience leading large, global, and diverse teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, AI, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
• 15+ years of progressively responsible experience in data science, machine learning, and AI.
• At least 7 years in senior leadership or management roles overseeing large-scale data science or ML teams.

Benefits & Perks

• Flexible activity-based working fostering collaboration and productivity.
• Inclusive global travelers community welcoming diverse perspectives.
• Competitive salary package including performance bonuses ($340,000 to $370,000 range).
• Development programs, managerial courses, and learning series.
• Health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision for families (varies by country).
• Lifestyle Reimbursement Benefit for personal travel and wellness.
• Paid time off programs, including parental leave, public holidays, and year-end shutdown.
• Employee assistance program with counseling and Calm app subscription.
• State-of-the-art offices with dining, coffee points, and leisure areas.