Lead Data Scientist
HarnhamAbout the role
Lead Data Scientist
We are looking for a Lead Data Scientist to own complex quantitative and risk modeling projects from problem definition through implementation. This is a highly visible role where your models will directly influence multi-million-dollar business opportunities and be presented to executive stakeholders.
What You’ll Do
Build, evaluate, and validate quantitative and risk models.
Work with large financial and credit datasets.
Develop models using Python, SQL, and gradient boosting techniques.
Translate model outputs into measurable financial and dollar impact.
Own projects end-to-end, from defining the problem through implementation.
Present technical findings and recommendations to senior and executive stakeholders.
Defend models and methodology during external audits.
Help identify and quantify significant financial opportunities.
Provide technical guidance and support to other team members.
What We’re Looking For
8+ years of data science/modeling experience
Strong Python and SQL skills.
Strong data modeling experience.
Strong mathematical and statistical foundation.
Experience with gradient boosting models.
Proven ability to independently lead projects end-to-end.
Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Comfortable explaining technical work and model results to executives.
Experience working through external audits and defending models.
Finance/risk modeling experience within a regulated industry is required.
Required Domain Experience
You should have experience in areas such as:
Credit risk modeling
Financial or loss modeling
Probability of Default (PD) modeling
Credit scorecards
Payment behavior modeling
Credit attribute modeling
Mortgage, credit card, banking, or credit bureau data
Risk modeling within a regulated financial institution
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Computer Science, Quantitative Engineering, or another highly quantitative field.
Master’s degree in Data Science or a related quantitative discipline preferred.
The Ideal Candidate
This role is suited to a senior-level Data Scientist who can operate independently, drive complex projects, and communicate confidently with both technical and executive audiences.
Location: Tempe, AZ preferred; Dallas or Atlanta also considered
Working Model: Hybrid, 4 days per week (Monday–Thursday)
Compensation: $140,000–$150,000 base
Visa: U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder only
Responsibilities
- Build, evaluate, and validate quantitative and risk models
- Work with large financial and credit datasets
- Develop models using Python, SQL, and gradient boosting techniques
- Translate model outputs into measurable financial and dollar impact
- Own projects end-to-end, from defining the problem through implementation
- Present technical findings and recommendations to senior and executive stakeholders
- Defend models and methodology during external audits
- Help identify and quantify significant financial opportunities
Qualifications
- 8+ years of data science/modeling experience
- Strong Python and SQL skills
- Strong data modeling experience
- Strong mathematical and statistical foundation
- Experience with gradient boosting models
- Proven ability to independently lead projects end-to-end
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Comfortable explaining technical work and model results to executives
Skills mentioned
About Harnham
Harnham provides specialist Data and AI recruitment and staffing services, along with bespoke training solutions, across multiple industry verticals, operating in the UK, the USA and EU - contact us today to discuss your requirements: info@harnham.com Our recruitment and talent teams cover all aspects of the data and AI pipeline, from collection to consumption, across multiple data roles and functions. Whether you need full-time staff, contract talent, specialized training, Data-qualified graduates, or C-suite executives, Harnham Group is equipped to fulfill all your data talent requirements. Our five core services: * ATD - Rockborne – our graduate development arm – deploys expertly trained data consultants, who have gone through an intensive 12-week data training programme. After two years in the scheme, your consultant could become a * Contract / C2C / Freelance: Whether you're addressing a talent shortage, augmenting a project team, or encountering resource gaps, our specialist consultants offer bespoke interim talent solutions to address your unique challenges and drive success. * Full-Time / Direct Hiring: From early career professionals to senior management, our comprehensive services enable you to unearth outstanding data talent across various specializations, ensuring your organization thrives in the data-driven era. * Executive Search: With our dedicated executive search team and an extensive network encompassing the director to C-suite level, we assist both global corporations and ambitious startups in securing top-tier leadership talent to accomplish their goals. * GenAI, Prompt, LLM Training: Elevate your team's data expertise with our all-encompassing training programs covering essential tools and technologies such as Python, SQL, Machine Learning, LLM’s and AI. Highly bespoke, customised to your team learning requirements and budgets.