Data Science Lead

Santander Consumer Nordics is seeking an experienced Data Science Lead to drive our AI and analytics transformation across the Nordic region. This role combines hands-on technical leadership with strategic business partnership, requiring someone who can build scalable AI - data science solutions while leading cross-functional teams and influencing at the executive level.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership & Delivery

• Lead the design and implementation of advanced analytics solutions, including Generative AI systems, machine learning models, and predictive analytics
• Architect end-to-end data science pipelines covering data privacy, cloud infrastructure (Azure/Microsoft Fabric/AWS), cybersecurity, and model deployment
• Drive the adoption of modern data platforms and tools across the Nordic organization
• Ensure robust, scalable solutions that meet regulatory requirements including AI Act compliance

Strategic Business Partnership

• Translate complex business challenges into actionable AI / data science initiatives that deliver measurable value
• Partner with business leaders across Finance, Risk, Operations, and Commercial functions to identify and prioritize high-impact use cases
• Present insights and recommendations to C-level executives, making complexity simple and actionable
• Lead cross-Nordic collaboration to ensure consistent analytics practices and knowledge sharing

Team & Capability Building

• Mentor a high-performing data science team across multiple departments.
• Design and deliver training programs to raise AI and data literacy across the organization
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning within the analytics community
• Mentor team members and stakeholders in advanced analytics techniques and best practices

Platform & Governance

• Own the data science platform strategy, including tool selection, architecture, and governance frameworks
• Establish and maintain data science best practices, standards, and ethical AI guidelines
• Drive the modernization of legacy analytics infrastructure (SAP)

Required Qualifications

Technical Expertise

• Advanced degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Economics or related field
• 7+ years of experience in data science/analytics roles with proven impact on business outcomes
• Expert-level proficiency in Python, SQL, and modern data science frameworks
• Deep experience with cloud platforms and big data technologies
• Strong understanding of machine learning, deep learning, and Generative AI technologies
• Experience with Microsoft Fabric, Power BI, or similar modern analytics platforms

Business & Leadership Skills

• Proven track record of leading data science initiatives that drive significant business value
• Experience managing cross-functional teams including liaising with HQ Madrid.
• Strong business acumen with ability to connect technical solutions to P&L impact
• Excellent stakeholder management skills across all organizational levels
• Experience in financial services, particularly consumer banking, strongly preferred

Additional Requirements

• Fluent in English (working language across Nordics)
• Scandinavian language or Spanish are a plus
• Willingness to travel regularly across Nordic countries
• Strong presentation and communication skills
• Project management certification is beneficial

What We Offer

• Opportunity to lead data science transformation at a major Nordic financial institution
• Work with cutting-edge technologies including Generative AI and modern cloud platforms
• Lead initiatives that directly impact millions of Nordic consumers
• Collaborative, international work environment
• Competitive compensation package
• Professional development opportunities

Are you interested?

If you have the right profile, will and enthusiasm, please send your application and CV via the link no later than September 14th. You are welcome to contact Eirik Wessel Carlsen if you have any questions about the position.