Head of Frontier AI & Strategy

Maya; Manila; On-site; PHP 3,500,000 - 5,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Maya is seeking a Director to lead our AI Research & Development Pillar, the engine that brings frontier AI into Maya's fintech products. This is a research leadership role that connects academic advances with real-world deployment.

You will define a multi-year strategy, guide applied research, and build a world-class team, partnering with CTO and executives to translate complex problems into measurable business impact across lending, fraud, and operations.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Operations Research, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, AI, or a related quantitative discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in research, machine learning, AI, optimization, or related fields.
• 5+ years of experience building and leading high-performing research teams, including people management.
• Demonstrated record of defining and executing multi-year research strategies with measurable business impact.
• Publication record or significant research output at recognized AI/ML venues is strongly preferred.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capability.
• Strong scientific rigor and research judgment.
• Ability to influence executive stakeholders through technical expertise.

Responsibilities

• Define and own the multi-year research strategy and roadmap for the R&D pillar, aligned with Maya's AI vision.
• Lead and direct applied research to develop novel algorithms, models, and data-driven solutions.
• Lead high-impact, multi-year research programs from inception through measurable business outcomes.
• Translate complex business challenges into advanced AI, mathematical, or optimization formulations with measurable outcomes.
• Architect end-to-end research solutions from concept through production deployment.
• Act as the principal technical advisor to CTO and executive leadership on AI and optimization strategy.
• Drive cross-functional initiatives spanning product, engineering, risk, operations, and business teams.
• Build, lead, and develop a world-class research organization; define hiring strategy and grow future leaders.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Executive influence

Research leadership

AI/ML expertise

Education

PhD or MSc in CS/OR/Math/Stats/Engineering/AI

Job description

Maya is seeking a Director to lead our AI Research & Development Pillar, the engine that brings frontier AI into Maya's fintech products. This is a research leadership role that connects academic advances with real-world deployment.

You will define a multi-year strategy, guide applied research, and build a world-class team, partnering with CTO and executives to translate complex problems into measurable business impact across lending, fraud, and operations.