Our vision for the future is based on the idea that transforming financial lives starts by giving our people the freedom to transform their own. We have a flexible work environment, and fluid career paths. We not only encourage but celebrate internal mobility. We also recognize the importance of purpose, well-being, and work-life balance. Within Empower and our communities, we work hard to create a welcoming and inclusive environment, and our associates dedicate thousands of hours to volunteering for causes that matter most to them.

Chart your own path and grow your career while helping more customers achieve financial freedom. Empower Yourself.

The Director Data Science leads a data science department delivering applied artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and advanced analytics solutions that drive measurable business outcomes. This role supports Empower’s data-driven decision-making by translating complex analytical insights into practical, high-impact applications that improve client experience, operational efficiency, and business performance.

The Director partners closely with engineering, architecture, and business stakeholders to design, develop, and deploy AI/ML solutions from experimentation through production. This leader combines strong technical expertise with people leadership, fostering a collaborative, innovative team culture while advancing Empower’s responsible and scalable use of data science.

Essential Functions

Leadership & Delivery

• Contribute to the execution of Empower’s data science strategy and roadmap by leading AI, ML, and advanced analytics initiatives aligned to business priorities.
• Partner with business and product leaders to identify, define, and prioritize high-value use cases where data science drives performance, personalization, and operational efficiency.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration to deliver AI/ML models and analytical solutions from concept through production deployment.
• Advise leaders on data science capabilities, emerging trends, and responsible AI considerations to support informed decision-making.
• Evaluate and apply emerging technologies in generative AI, machine learning, and analytics to improve solution effectiveness and scalability.

Technical Excellence & Model Development

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced AI/ML models and analytical frameworks that support business growth and client outcomes.
• Ensure model performance, validation, monitoring, and documentation meet quality, governance, and regulatory standards.
• Partner with Data Engineering and AI/ML Engineering teams to build and maintain robust data pipelines, APIs, and cloud-based model environments.
• Promote best practices for model lifecycle management, security, and data governance.

Team Leadership & Talent Development

• Manage and develop teams of Principal, Senior, and Data Scientists, fostering technical excellence, accountability, and collaboration.
• Provide hands-on technical guidance and mentorship, supporting a “player/coach” leadership approach.
• Support recruiting, onboarding, and development of data science talent to meet current and future business needs.
• Establish standards, methodologies, and tools to enable consistent, scalable model delivery.

Collaboration & Influence

• Translate analytical outputs into clear, actionable insights for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Influence adoption of data science solutions through effective communication, partnership, and storytelling.
• Promote data literacy and responsible AI practices through collaboration, presentations, and internal engagement.

Research, Ethics & Continuous Improvement

• Stay current on advances in AI, ML, and data science, applying relevant innovations to Empower use cases.
• Evaluate third-party and open-source tools for potential adoption.
• Champion ethical AI principles, transparency, and responsible model design in day-to-day work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, statistics, mathematics, engineering, or a related field required; master’s degree or Ph.D. preferred.
• 8–10+ years of professional experience in data science, AI/ML, or advanced analytics, including several years in people or technical leadership roles.
• Demonstrated success designing, building, and deploying AI/ML solutions that deliver measurable business impact.
• Proficiency in Python, R, SQL, and modern ML frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Experience with cloud platforms and scalable data architectures (AWS preferred).
• Familiarity with data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or QuickSight.
• Experience working with data engineering and database technologies (e.g., RDS, DynamoDB, ElastiCache).
• Strong ability to mentor data scientists, balance hands-on contribution with leadership responsibilities, and drive execution.
• Proven collaboration skills with technology, product, and business partners.
• Strong communication, influencing, and problem-solving skills.
• Adaptable, self-motivated, and committed to continuous learning.

Work Environment & Disclaimer

This job operates in a professional office environment.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications of the job. The employer has the right to revise this job description at any time. You will be evaluated in part based on your performance of the responsibilities and/or tasks listed in this job description. You may be required to perform other duties that are not included in this job description. The job description is not a contract for employment, and either you or the employer may terminate employment at any time, for any reason, as per terms and conditions of your employment contract.

We are an equal opportunity employer with a commitment to diversity.  All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, pregnancy, religion, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law.