VP, Data Science

Ookla® is a global leader in connectivity intelligence, offering unparalleled network insights through the combined expertise of Speedtest®, Downdetector®, RootMetrics®, and Ekahau®. Ookla’s complementary datasets combine crowdsourced and controlled, public and private collection methods, QoS and QoE metrics, and more to unlock correlations and actionable insights — helping organizations optimize networks, enhance digital experiences, and create better connected experiences for end-users. Our team is a group of people brought together through passion and inspired by possibility. We are looking for team members who love solving problems, are motivated by challenges, and enjoy turning clever ideas into exceptional products. When you work for us, you are using Ookla data and insights to advance our mission of better connectivity for all. Role Summary As the Head of Data Science, you will lead a team of skilled data scientists to deliver innovative, data-driven solutions that drive business growth and enhance decision-making for Ookla's diverse customer base, from communication service providers to small and midsize enterprises (SMEs). You will set the strategic direction for the data science function, bridging the "Platform" and "Applications" teams, ensuring data integrity, consistency, and enabling the development of advanced AI and ML models for innovative applications. In this role, you will oversee the creation of valuable insights and data products derived from Ookla's rich, multi-dimensional data sets, which include customer sentiment, quality of experience (QoE), quality of service (QoS), radio network performance, fixed network performance, and global population data. These insights will empower stakeholders such as government policymakers, marketers, and investment planners to make informed, data-driven decisions. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, sales, technical presales, and partners, to identify opportunities, solve complex challenges, and deliver significant business impact. Expectations for Success 

• Develop and execute a long-term data science strategy aligned with the company's overall business goals.
• Recruit, hire, and develop a high-performing team of data scientists and machine learning engineers.
• Foster strong partnerships with other departments, such as engineering, product, and business development, to ensure seamless integration of solutions.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and deep learning techniques and champion learning activities within the company across all departments.
• Integrate data science best practices across the company and enable self-service analytics and reporting
• Lead the development and deployment of sophisticated AI/ML models enabling new applications and creating value to our customers.
• Lead research and development of new measurements, KPIs, models, and products that offer actionable insights about connected experiences
• Oversee the design, implementation, and maintenance of robust data pipelines and infrastructure.
• Identify opportunities to leverage AI/ML to create innovative products and services, working closely with the applications product management as well as professional services teams.
• Work closely with product teams to define product roadmaps and prioritize features.
• Collaborate with engineering team to build platforms and pipelines that support advanced analytics and AI/ML
• Identify and mitigate potential risks associated with AI deployment.
• Mentor and coach team members to foster professional growth and development.
• Set clear expectations, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance reviews.
• Protect Ookla’s credibility by ensuring quality and consistency across Ookla’s products and public-facing outputs
• Lead executive-level customer discussions, differentiating Ookla’s offerings, addressing customer challenges, and identifying opportunities for growth.

 Requirements We are looking for the right person, not the exact list of requirements. If you believe your life experience has prepared you for similar challenges, we’d like to hear from you. 

• A Ph.D. or Master's degree in a relevant field, such as computer science, statistics, or data science
• Strong foundation in statistical modeling, hypothesis testing, and data analysis techniques.
• Proficient in machine learning algorithms, including supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning.
• Expertise in programming languages like Python, R, or Scala.
• Strong understanding of data pipelines, ETL processes, and data platforms.
• Experience with cloud computing platforms like AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Excellent communication skills to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Experience in the data science field, preferably in the Telecom industry.
• Proven experience in strategic planning, analysis, and resource allocation.
• Ability to develop personal credibility and empathy and to build trustworthy relationships at all levels. Ability to influence, negotiate, and communicate effectively and outside the organization.

 Benefits We care deeply about each other and the work we do, and our perks are just one way we demonstrate this. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including (but not limited to):

• 401(k) matching 
• Unlimited PTO
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan options 
• Health/dental/vision insurance coverage 
• Wellness benefits (Calm app, gym reimbursement, ERG groups, etc)
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) (mental health, financial advice, legal guidance, and more)
• Maven Fertility options 
• Pregnancy support
• Pet insurance
• Enhanced parental leave
• Disability coverage

 You will have the best hardware, software, and tools available for you to do your work, and we provide excellent flexibility for working remotely as time and responsibilities allow. To promote your success and growth we offer educational opportunities, and anti-racism and LGBTQIA+ resource libraries, team activities, and many more.  We care deeply about each other and the work we do, and our perks are just one way we demonstrate this. Ookla has great benefits including competitive compensation and paid time off. We make sure you have the best hardware, software and tools available for you to do your work.  If you’re passionate about joining the work we’re doing, we welcome your application and encourage applicants with both traditional and non-traditional experience that makes them an excellent candidate for the role. We strongly believe diversity of all kinds makes us better. We are an equal opportunity employer actively working to build an inclusive workforce at all levels of the company. [Read our latest diversity report from our parent company  here.] Ookla is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We want to ensure candidates have everything they need throughout our application and hiring process. If you have any individual needs related to disability or accessibility, we encourage you to contact recruiting@ookla.com and let us know how we can best accommodate you.