Head of Data Science, Financial Advisor Services

The Vanguard Group; Toronto, Cardinal; Hybrid; CAD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is on the lookout for a dynamic Head of Data Science to lead a talented team in developing innovative AI solutions. This role involves shaping AI strategies, engaging with stakeholders, and overseeing large-scale analytics projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in machine learning and data science, with a passion for building impactful AI products. This innovative firm promotes a hybrid working model, balancing flexibility with collaboration, fostering a culture of learning and innovation. If you are ready to make a significant impact in the AI landscape, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in analytical roles with experience in AI and machine learning.
• Strong background in statistical methods and data wrangling.

Responsibilities

• Implement data science strategy to enhance performance and competitive advantage.
• Manage a team of data scientists on predictive and prescriptive analytics projects.

Skills

AI solutions development

stakeholder engagement

data wrangling

machine learning methods

communication skills

Education

Undergraduate degree in Analytics

Graduate degree in related field

Tools

Generative AI

Agentic AI

NLP/Generation

Job description

Role Overview:

We are actively seeking a seasoned leader with expertise in AI solutions development and strategic people leadership to join us as the Head of Data Science, FAS. In this role, you will lead a team of experienced data and decision scientists within the CDAO, overseeing the development and deployment of innovative AI products and systems for FAS’s clients and internal teams.

The ideal candidate is a technical leader with experience engaging stakeholders, shaping AI strategy, and influencing senior leadership priorities. Strong communication skills, practical AI knowledge, and the ability to oversee a broad portfolio of AI initiatives—including Generative AI, Agentic AI, NLP/Generation, Propensity Modeling, and AI-based Hyper-Segmentation—are essential. If you thrive on building impactful AI solutions and exploring cutting-edge ML capabilities while leading a talented team, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities:

• Implement Vanguard's data science strategy to enhance performance and competitive advantage.
• Manage a team of data scientists working on diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive analytics projects.
• Lead deep dive analytics to support decision-making, developing alternative model approaches.
• Identify and resolve data issues, document assumptions, and fill data gaps, providing coaching to team members.
• Oversee large-scale analytics projects, ensuring quality and risk management.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand business processes and translate requirements into analytics strategies.
• Lead testing, research, and validation of models; serve as a statistical expert on strategic initiatives.
• Evaluate new technologies and manage vendor relationships for big data analysis.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of ten years in analytical roles, with experience in data wrangling, statistical, and machine learning methods.
• Undergraduate degree in Analytics, Applied Mathematics, Economics, Statistics, or related field; graduate degree preferred.

Nice to Have:

• Experience with Generative AI and Agentic AI systems, with some familiarity preferred.

Additional Information:

Vanguard offers visa sponsorship for this position.

About Vanguard

We are committed to the long-term financial wellbeing of our clients and fostering a culture of learning, collaboration, and innovation.

How We Work

Our hybrid working model balances flexibility with in-person collaboration, supporting our mission-driven culture and long-term client outcomes.