Director of Data
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for data-driven decision making has never been higher, with 45% of companies planning to increase their data analytics spend in 2026. As a Director of Data at Mercury, you'll be at the forefront of this trend, leading a team of 30+ data scientists and engineers to drive business growth and inform key decisions. With the rise of fintech and SaaS, companies are looking for leaders who can harness the power of data to drive innovation and competitiveness. Before applying, candidates should be aware that this role requires a unique blend of technical expertise, leadership skills, and strategic vision.
Job Description
About the Role
The Director of Data position at Mercury is a critical leadership role that will drive the company's data strategy and inform key business decisions. As the leader of a full-stack data organization, you will be responsible for defining how data is built, governed, and leveraged across the company. You will architect the systems that help Mercury move faster, invest smarter, and make better decisions at every level. The role will involve working closely with cross-functional teams, including GTM, Core Product, and Risk, to ensure that data is embedded in every aspect of the business.The successful candidate will have a deep understanding of data science, machine learning, and statistics, as well as experience in developing high-performing data teams. You will be responsible for setting a high talent bar while fostering an inspiring environment of ownership, growth, and impact. You will also be expected to partner effectively with People, Legal, Compliance, and Privacy teams to ensure that Mercury is enforcing best practices and compliant standards for data privacy and security.
Mercury is a company that values diversity and belonging, and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. The company is committed to creating a culture where anyone can access trusted data, ask hard questions, and self-serve at scale.
What You Will Do
- Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team of 30+ data scientists and data engineers embedded across GTM, Core Product, and Risk
- Define and execute a forward-looking data strategy that embeds rigorous, data-driven decision-making into how Mercury sets company priorities, builds products, and manages risk
- Lead Mercury's evolution toward self-serve data at scale by shipping high-leverage data platforms that empower teams to move quickly from question to insight to action
- Elevate data reliability, governance, and security as core capabilities by shaping the standards and systems required to operate as a scaled financial institution
- Partner with executives to equip them with the tools, reporting, and advanced analytics needed to make decisions
- Proactively surface opportunities and risks that executives may not see
- Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across the company
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies in data science and machine learning
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and prioritize data-driven projects
- Develop and manage budgets and resources to support data initiatives
What We Are Looking For
- 10+ years of experience, including 4+ years managing a team of data science or data engineering managers
- Track record of partnering with and influencing executives to make data-driven decisions
- Strong opinions on how data should inform decision-making, with the ability to translate that perspective into scalable practices and standards
- Deep expertise in data science, machine learning, statistics, financial calculations, and experimentation for commercial applications
- Experience developing high-performing data teams, setting a high talent bar while fostering an inspiring environment of ownership, growth, and impact
- Developed self-service analytics capabilities at scale, expanding access to reliable data and powering AI-enabled insights for business and product teams
- Ability to partner effectively with People, Legal, Compliance, and Privacy teams to ensure that Mercury is enforcing best practices and compliant standards for data privacy and security
Nice to Have
- Experience with cloud-based data platforms and technologies
- Knowledge of data governance and compliance regulations
- Familiarity with Agile development methodologies
- Experience with data visualization tools and techniques
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive base salary and equity package
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous paid time off and holiday policy
- Remote work stipend and flexible working hours
- Professional development opportunities, including training and conference attendance
- Access to cutting-edge technologies and tools
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
How to Stand Out
- Tip: Highlight your experience with data science, machine learning, and statistics in your application, as these skills are highly valued in this role.
- Develop a strong understanding of the company's data strategy and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to it.
- Showcase your ability to partner with executives and stakeholders to drive data-driven decision making.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with data governance and compliance regulations.
- Consider including examples of how you have developed and implemented self-service analytics capabilities in your previous roles.
- Research the company culture and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a culture of innovation and collaboration.
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