[Remote] Director, Data Science at Forward Financing

United States

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Not SpecifiedCompensation

Senior (5 to 8 years), Expert & Leadership (9+ years)Experience Level

Full TimeJob Type

UnknownVisa

Fintech, Financial Services, Small Business LendingIndustries

Requirements

10+ years of experience in data science, with an extensive background in credit risk modeling and relevant data sources (credit bureau, bank, public records, etc.)
4+ years of leadership experience managing and mentoring a team of data scientists and/or machine learning engineers
Proficient in building machine learning models using foundational statistical methods, like generalized linear models, and advanced techniques such as gradient boosting and deep learning
Proficient in Python
Proficient in SQL
Proficient in Git and code collaboration
Experience with workflow orchestration tools, such as Metaflow
Experience deploying and managing models within a cloud platform (AWS, Sagemaker)
Strong statistical foundation and knowledge of experimental design
Excellent project management and communication skills
Bachelor's degree in Financial/Applied Math, Operations Research, Economics, and/or Statistics. Masters/PhD is a plus

Responsibilities

Lead the data science team to develop, validate, and deploy advanced machine learning models related to credit risk, fraud, pricing, collections and operations, that drive better decisions, automation, and profitability
Oversee the full model development lifecycle (from ideation and data exploration to production deployment and performance monitoring)
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Portfolio Strategy, Engineering, Product, Underwriting, Sales and Collections to integrate models into our applications, and proactively identify and solve problems that impact critical areas of the business
Build and mentor a high-performing team of data scientists and machine learning engineers, strategically looking at long-term staffing needs (12+ months) and raising the bar on talent and performance across the function
Accountable for the planning, budgeting, and execution for the Data Science function by forecasting needs over multiple quarters
Communicate complex technical concepts and model results to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including senior leadership
Stay current on industry trends and research in machine learning, credit risk and relevant data sources

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Machine LearningCredit Risk ModelingFraud DetectionPricing ModelsCollections ModelingOperations ModelingModel DevelopmentModel ValidationModel DeploymentPerformance MonitoringData ExplorationTeam LeadershipMentoring

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is this position remote?

Yes, this is a remote position.

What experience is required for the Director of Data Science role?

Candidates need 10+ years of experience in data science with extensive background in credit risk modeling and relevant data sources, plus 4+ years of leadership experience managing data scientists or machine learning engineers.

What technical skills are required for this role?

Proficiency in Python and SQL is required, along with building machine learning models using foundational statistical methods like generalized linear models and advanced techniques such as gradient boosting and deep learning.

What is the company culture like at Forward Financing?

Forward Financing is recognized as a Best Place to Work by Built In Boston and certified as a Great Place To Work, with a focus on investing in employees, technology, and customer experience for long-term success.

What makes a strong candidate for this Director of Data Science position?

A strong candidate will have extensive credit risk modeling experience, proven leadership in building and mentoring data science teams, and proficiency in Python, SQL, and advanced ML techniques to lead model deployment across business functions.

Forward Financing

Provides fast funding solutions for small businesses

About Forward Financing

Forward Financing offers fast and flexible funding solutions to small businesses in the United States, focusing on those who may not qualify for traditional bank loans. Their main product is a merchant cash advance, which provides a lump sum of cash in exchange for a percentage of future sales, allowing for quick funding often within 24 hours. Unlike traditional lenders, Forward Financing operates in the alternative lending space, providing a more accessible application process, though at higher fees due to the increased risk. The company's goal is to support small business growth by offering reliable funding while adhering to high ethical standards.

Boston, MassachusettsHeadquarters

2012Year Founded

$365MTotal Funding

DEBTCompany Stage

Fintech, Financial ServicesIndustries

201-500Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Company Match

401(k) Retirement Plan

Unlimited Paid Time Off

Paid Parental Leave

Wellness Program

Professional Development Budget

Flexible Work Hours

Remote Work Options

Risks

New fintech startups in Boston may challenge Forward Financing's market share.

CEO Jason Mullins' strategic shifts could disrupt operations or alienate clients.

Expansion of $450 million credit facility may increase financial risk if not managed well.

Differentiation

Forward Financing offers fast, flexible funding with approvals within minutes.

The company has provided over $1.9 billion to 45,000 small businesses since 2012.

Forward Financing is A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau and has a 4.9-star Trustpilot rating.

Upsides

Increased demand for alternative lending boosts Forward Financing's market potential.

AI and machine learning enhance Forward Financing's risk assessment and underwriting processes.

Digital-first financial services trend aligns with Forward Financing's online application model.

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