Data Scientist (Director)

Requirements

• Hands on experience in data science with a strong focus on financial crime, AML, or fraud detection, and a demonstrated ability to lead teams while remaining an active hands‑on contributor
• Strong track record of delivering production machine learning models in complex, large‑scale environments, with the ability to operate across the full lifecycle from problem framing through deployment and performance evaluation
• Strong programming proficiency in Python, with hands‑on experience working with large‑scale datasets and distributed data platforms
• Highly autonomous and outcome‑focused, with the ability to operate effectively in ambiguous environments and influence across both technical and non‑technical stakeholders
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with proven ability to work effectively across Product and Experience leading engineering teams and translating complex technical work into clear direction and outcomes
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to executive and non‑technical audiences
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data Science, or a related quantitative field, or equivalent practical experience
• (Desirable) Prior experience in payments, financial services, or an adjacent domain
• (Desirable) Experience with AML detection systems, crypto or emerging payments risk, anomaly detection, behavioral modelling, or model governance

What the job involves

• The Mastercard Security Solutions Data Science team is seeking a Director of Data Science to lead the development and delivery of machine learning models focused on Anti‑Money Laundering and crypto risk detection — protecting financial institutions and cardholders across the Americas
• In this role, you will operate as a player‑coach, combining hands‑on technical contribution with leadership of a small, high‑performing team of data scientists
• You will own end‑to‑end model development, drive technical direction, and ensure strong alignment with Product and Engineering partners‑playing a pivotal role in strengthening Mastercard’s financial crime prevention capabilities across the region
• Lead a small team of data scientists, setting clear priorities and ensuring high‑quality, outcome‑focused delivery
• Act as a senior practitioner, contributing directly to the design, development, and improvement of AML and crypto risk detection models across the full lifecycle — from data preparation and prototyping through to production performance and iteration
• Define and evolve the technical roadmap for AML and crypto risk detection solutions
• Partner closely with Product teams to shape the offeåring, identify opportunities to improve model impact, and provide a clear data science perspective
• Collaborate with Engineering teams to establish effective ways of working, ensuring clear ownership boundaries and efficient delivery across systems and pipelines
• Ensure high standards of model quality, documentation, explainability, and governance