Data Science Director

Visa is a world leader in payments and technology, with over 259 billion payments transactions flowing safely between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and government entities in more than 200 countries and territories each year. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable, and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses, and economies to thrive while driven by a common purpose – to uplift everyone, everywhere by being the best way to pay and be paid.

Make an impact with a purpose-driven industry leader. Join us today and experience Life at Visa.

The individual will be part of VCA's geographic cluster covering Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand (SMT) markets, with primary responsibility for leading data science engagements with Visa's clients in Singapore. This role combines deep data science expertise with strong domain knowledge, proven ability to build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and clients, and a solutions‑oriented, consultative approach to delivery — all aimed at driving measurable business impact and supporting revenue growth.

Specific Responsibilities include:

• Collaborate with business leaders, internal stakeholders, consulting and client teams to understand business needs , identify strategic areas where data and AI/ML can drive strong business impact, in alignment with organization priorities

• Act as the market linchpin between local country team and regional data teams to elevate go-to-market approach for delivering solutions

• Partner with clients to identify opportunities for AI adoption, shaping solution strategies that align with business priorities and industry trends

• Act as a trusted advisor, presenting AI capabilities and emerging technologies in a clear, compelling way to both technical teams and business decision-makers

• Drive thought leadership in AI innovation, including Agentic AI and cutting-edge trends, and assess their applicability for client contexts

• Mentor and lead data science teams, ensuring delivery excellence, technical skill development, and alignment with industry best practices and regulatory frameworks

• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring effective utilization of resources and alignment with financial targets

This is a hybrid position. Expectation of days in office will be confirmed by your Hiring Manager.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, Business Analytics, or a related field
• 12+ years of demonstrated industry experience in analytics, with a proven track record in delivering end-to-end AI/ML projects across diverse industries, with demonstrated impact on business outcomes
• Strong proficiency in data analysis, statistical modelling, and advanced analytics techniques; familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure) and data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI, etc.)
•  Expertise in advanced AI and emerging trends (agentic AI, generative AI, autonomous decision systems), with practical experience applying them in regulated financial environments
• Demonstrated ability to design and deliver AI‑driven solutions for banking and financial institutions, addressing critical areas such as customer engagement, fraud prevention, credit risk assessment, compliance automation or customer experience
• Strong consultative and client-facing skills, with the ability to bridge technical expertise and business value
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and driving projects/initiatives in collaboration with business stakeholders
• Executive presence including excellent communication and presentation skills, written and verbal and ability to communicate at all levels within large organizations
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to mentor and guide junior team members

Also Preferred

• Strong understanding of model governance, explainability, and regulatory compliance in financial services AI applications
• Strong understanding of payments and banking industry including Consumer Credit, Consumer debit, Small Business, Commercial, Co-Brand and Merchant
• In-market experience and/or knowledge of regulation and industry trends

Travel Requirements

• This position requires travel 5-10% of the time.

Visa is an EEO Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Visa will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with EEOC guidelines and applicable local law.