Lead Data Science - Research and Development

Role Overview

We are looking for an experienced Head of Research & Development to lead research initiatives, drive innovation, and develop advanced technology solutions in AI, ML, data science, and big data analytics. The role involves leading the R&D team, developing proprietary algorithms, and transforming research findings into scalable, production-ready business solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Research Strategy & Innovation: Develop and implement long-term R&D strategies aligned with business goals, identify emerging technologies, and drive innovation to strengthen the company's competitive advantage.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and expand the R&D team, manage performance, and build a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• AI/ML Research & Development: Design and develop proprietary algorithms, machine learning models, and reusable frameworks to improve existing products and create new business opportunities.
• Data Science Standards: Establish standardized research methodologies, data processing practices, and quality standards to ensure reliable, consistent, and reproducible results.
• Product Integration: Collaborate with product, engineering, and business teams to integrate research outcomes into applications, products, and services.
• Project Management: Oversee R&D projects from planning to delivery, managing timelines, budgets, resources, and priorities to ensure successful execution.
• Productionization of Research: Guide proof-of-concept (POC) development and ensure successful transition of research prototypes into scalable, production-ready solutions.
• Quality Assurance & Risk Management: Maintain research quality, document methodologies, assess risks, and implement processes to ensure accuracy, reliability, and accountability.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with senior leadership, communicate research outcomes, and build partnerships with academic institutions, research organizations, and technology vendors.
• Resource & Budget Management: Manage departmental budgets, technology investments, tools, infrastructure, and external partnerships to support R&D objectives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, or a related field. An MBA is an added advantage.
• At least 7 years of experience in leadership roles within R&D, AI/ML, data science, or related technology domains.
• Strong expertise in machine learning algorithms, statistical modeling, and big data analytics.
• Proven experience leading research teams and delivering innovative solutions that generate measurable business value.
• Strong understanding of MLOps and experience deploying machine learning models at scale.
• Experience with model deployment, monitoring, and lifecycle management in production environments.
• Ability to develop reusable frameworks and transform research prototypes into production-ready applications.
• Strong project management skills, including resource allocation, budgeting, and timely project delivery.
• Excellent leadership, mentoring, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Ability to align research initiatives with business objectives and translate complex technical findings into practical solutions.