Head of Data Science - Generative AI

About the role

This leadership position involves defining and executing the Generative AI roadmap for N26, a company serving customers across Europe. The Head of Data Science will be responsible for architecting the company's AI transformation, ensuring the development of production-ready generative AI applications that integrate into core operations. This includes overseeing projects from initial concept through to deployment and scaling.

A key aspect of this role is leading and developing a team of AI experts. The successful candidate will provide strategic and architectural guidance, fostering a collaborative environment to deliver robust and compliant AI solutions. This requires a leader who can mentor team members and ensure alignment with the company's broader technical vision and business objectives.

Success in this position means driving significant advancements in how N26 uses AI to improve customer interactions and operational efficiency. The role requires close collaboration with product managers, backend engineering, compliance teams, and executive leadership to ensure AI initiatives are integrated effectively and meet business needs. The focus is on delivering tangible, impactful AI solutions that contribute to the company's growth and customer satisfaction.

The listed salary range for this full-time lead position is between $55,000 and $88,000 USD annually.

Skills that matter here

• Generative AI: This role requires mastery of generative AI architectures and frameworks to develop new applications.
• Machine Learning: The position demands a deep understanding of machine learning algorithms and principles for developing AI solutions.
• Python: Strong programming proficiency in Python is essential for implementing and scaling AI models.
• MLOps: Experience with MLOps practices is necessary for the production and scaling of machine learning and AI solutions.
• Deep Learning: Knowledge of deep learning principles is required to work with advanced AI models and architectures.

Who this role suits

• Someone with a strong academic background in a quantitative field (Master's or PhD) and extensive experience in AI/ML development.
• A proven leader with over five years of experience managing and scaling data science or AI/ML teams.
• An individual who excels at strategic thinking and has a track record of defining and executing ambitious technical roadmaps.
• A person who can communicate complex technical concepts effectively and collaborate across different departments.

From the employer

Responsibilities

• Architect and drive the end-to-end AI transformation across N26.
• Define, communicate, and execute the overall Data Science roadmap and vision for the Generative AI function.
• Lead, mentor, and grow a diverse team of experienced AI experts.
• Provide strategic and architectural guidance on the delivery of robust and compliant generative AI solutions.
• Oversee cutting-edge AI projects end-to-end.
• Partner closely with Product Managers, Backend Engineering, Compliance, and Executive Leadership.

Requirements

• An advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in a quantitative discipline such as Computer Science, Data Science, or Mathematics/Statistics.
• Significant professional experience (8+ years) in the development, production, and scaling of ML/AI solutions.
• Proven leadership experience (5+ years) managing, mentoring, and scaling Data Science or AI/ML teams.
• Exceptional strategic thinking and a track record of defining and executing ambitious technical roadmaps.
• Mastery of common machine learning algorithms, deep learning principles, and generative AI architectures.
• Strong programming proficiency in Python and experience with generative AI frameworks.
• Excellent communication skills.

Conditions

• Accelerate your career growth by joining one of Europe’s most talked about disruptors.
• Employee benefits that range from a competitive personal development budget, work from home budget, discounts to fitness & wellness.