Director of Data Science

The Director of Data Science will lead a highly technical Decision Science team focused on generative AI, machine learning, predictive modeling, and advanced analytics within the benefits and protection insurance sector. This leadership role combines technical strategy, people development, and hands-on innovation to turn emerging technologies into scalable, production-ready solutions. You will define the team's technical direction, guide complex projects from initial concept through deployment, and ensure that data science initiatives deliver measurable business value. Working closely with Product Management, Engineering, IT, and senior business leaders, you will identify high-impact opportunities and translate advanced analytical capabilities into practical solutions. You will also strengthen team performance during a period of growth and integration while fostering a culture of accountability, experimentation, and continuous learning. This is an opportunity to influence enterprise-wide innovation within an established financial services organization with a long-standing commitment to improving financial security.

The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in data science with proven leadership capabilities and the ability to translate complex analytical methods into scalable business solutions. Required qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree.
• At least 10 years of professional experience developing machine learning and predictive models; advanced education may be considered in place of experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in statistics, mathematics, machine learning, optimization, model development, operationalization, scalability, and analysis of large structured and unstructured datasets.
• Formal people management experience, including coaching technical talent and building a culture of commitment and accountability.
• Experience with modern programming languages, machine learning libraries, big-data technologies, and cloud platforms.
• Strong technical judgment and the ability to assess emerging AI and machine learning technologies, select appropriate approaches, and guide solutions from concept through production.
• Commitment to continuous learning, experimentation, and staying current with advances in AI, machine learning, and predictive modeling.
• Strong leadership, communication, and influencing skills, with the ability to drive change, navigate ambiguity, and collaborate across technical and business teams.
• Ability to connect data science initiatives to measurable business outcomes and guide the delivery of scalable, production-ready solutions.
• Authorization to work in the United States without requiring current or future immigration sponsorship. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

The following qualifications are considered advantageous:

• Master's degree or PhD.
• Experience developing custom generative AI or large language model (LLM) solutions using APIs, custom prompts or models, Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers, and application integrations.
• Experience in a high-growth or builder-oriented environment, particularly bringing emerging technologies into production.
• Knowledge of insurance, financial services, group benefits, or another highly regulated industry.

• Work arrangement: Remote work is available only to employees residing more than 30 miles from Des Moines, Iowa; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Raleigh, North Carolina. In-office and hybrid arrangements are also available, with hybrid work typically requiring at least three office days per week.
• Work authorization: Applicants requiring any form of current or future immigration sponsorship are not eligible.
• Code of ethics: Certain positions within asset management may be subject to an Investment Code of Ethics covering personal and business conduct, including personal trading activities.
• Application window: Applications are generally accepted for at least three full days following the original posting date, although the posting may remain open or be removed depending on application volume.