Director Data Science (practice Head - India)

Blend is a premier AI services provider committed to co-creating meaningful impact for its clients through the power of data science, AI technology, and people. With a mission to fuel bold visions, Blend tackles significant challenges by seamlessly aligning human expertise with artificial intelligence. The company is dedicated to unlocking value and fostering innovation for its clients by harnessing world-class people and data-driven strategy. Blend believes that the power of people and AI can have a meaningful impact on your world, creating more fulfilling work and projects for our people and clients. Role Overview: - Define and execute the overall vision and strategy for the Data Science practice aligned with business goals - Build, mentor, and inspire a large, high-performing data science team - Establish best practices, governance frameworks, and delivery standards across the practice - Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning in AI, ML, and GenAI - Represent the practice in global leadership forums and align with cross-functional leaders on strategic initiatives Key Responsibilities: - Oversee end-to-end execution of AI analytics programs ensuring quality, timeliness, and business impact - Lead large Data Science engagements with a hands-on approach, maintaining profit margin, and driving growth - Drive adoption of standardized delivery methodologies, documentation, and model lifecycle management - Review key projects for solution quality, stakeholder alignment, and measurable outcomes - Implement project governance mechanisms to monitor risks, escalations, and dependencies proactively - Ensure client satisfaction through proactive communication, performance tracking, and continuous improvement Qualifications Required: - 15 years of experience in the Data Science and Analytics services industry - Proven hands-on expertise in applied Machine Learning, AI, and advanced analytics - 8 years of leadership experience managing and mentoring high-performing Data Science teams - Strong programming foundation in Python, R, SQL, NoSQL, and Spark with practical exposure to ML tools and major cloud platforms AWS, Azure, GCP - Proficiency in Python libraries such as NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, Scrapy, and BERT - Deep technical expertise in Generative AI including model development, fine-tuning, and solution design - Strong understanding of machine learning, deep learning, data mining, and statistical modeling techniques - Demonstrated success in solving complex business problems and delivering AI-driven solutions across industries such as Retail, CPG, BFSI, Marketing, Healthcare, and Hospitality Blend offers competitive salary and dynamic career growth opportunities. The company values your skills and contributions and ensures that your salary reflects that. Additionally, the vibrant environment at Blend offers a variety of growth opportunities, including Idea Tanks for collaboration, Growth Chats for learning, Snack Zone for energy, and Recognition Rewards for acknowledging great work. Fuel your growth journey with certifications supported by Blend to level up your skills. Blend is a premier AI services provider committed to co-creating meaningful impact for its clients through the power of data science, AI technology, and people. With a mission to fuel bold visions, Blend tackles significant challenges by seamlessly aligning human expertise with artificial intelligence. The company is dedicated to unlocking value and fostering innovation for its clients by harnessing world-class people and data-driven strategy. Blend believes that the power of people and AI can have a meaningful impact on your world, creating more fulfilling work and projects for our people and clients. Role Overview: - Define and execute the overall vision and strategy for the Data Science practice aligned with business goals - Build, mentor, and inspire a large, high-performing data science team - Establish best practices, governance frameworks, and delivery standards across the practice - Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning in AI, ML, and GenAI - Represent the practice in global leadership forums and align with cross-functional leaders on strategic initiatives Key Responsibilities: - Oversee end-to-end execution of AI analytics programs ensuring quality, timeliness, and business impact - Lead large Data Science engagements with a hands-on approach, maintaining profit margin, and driving growth - Drive adoption of standardized delivery methodologies, documentation, and model lifecycle management - Review key projects for solution quality, stakeholder alignment, and measurable outcomes - Implement project governance mechanisms to monitor risks, escalations, and dependencies proactively - Ensure client satisfaction through proactive communication, performance tracking, and continuous improvement Qualifications Required: - 15 years of experi