Director Data Science

• Director of Data Science
• Location - Remote-first (U.S.) with optional hybrid/on-site across multiple office locations
• Compensation - $170,000–$200,000 base + bonus + 401k match + comprehensive benefits + market-leading PTO

James Search group is partnering with a leading P&C Insurance carrier to appoint a Director of Data Science — a high-impact leadership role at a pivotal stage of growth.

This is not a traditional “manage and report” position. It’s a builder role for someone who thrives on creating structure, scaling capability, and embedding data science as a true engineering discipline.

With new executive leadership driving a major evolution in applied science, this hire will play a critical role in transforming a small number of models into a production-grade data science engine influencing Claims, Underwriting, Risk, and Distribution.

What you’ll do:

• Architect and standardize end-to-end data science development practices (from exploration to deployment and monitoring)
• Lead as a hands-on, code-first practitioner, building reusable Python frameworks and tools
• Partner cross-functionally with Data Engineering, MLOps, Analytics, and business teams to deliver models that actually reach production
• Establish rigorous model performance, monitoring, and business impact measurement frameworks
• Drive roadmap clarity, prioritization, and technical design through cross-functional collaboration
• Mentor and elevate a growing team, embedding strong engineering and documentation habits

What we’re looking for:

• 8+ years of applied, hands-on data science experience (insurance or related industries preferred)
• Proven track record building scalable ML frameworks and enforcing engineering standards
• Deep expertise across the full ML lifecycle, including deployment and monitoring
• Strong collaboration skills across technical and business stakeholders
• A mindset focused on building systems that scale — not one-off models
• Familiarity with P&C insurance is strongly preferred but not required for the right candidate.

If you’re interested in shaping the future of data science within a forward-thinking insurance environment, feel free to reach out or apply directly.