Chief Data Scientists shape how organizations use data, analytics, and artificial intelligence to make decisions and create business value. As senior executives, they set data science strategy, guide teams, and partner with leaders across the organization to turn complex information into measurable results. Explore vetted Chief Data Scientist (CDS) opportunities paying $100,000 or more on Ladders.
A Chief Data Scientist leads an organization’s data science vision and execution. Typical responsibilities include setting priorities for analytics and machine learning, overseeing data science teams, establishing standards for model development, and explaining findings to executives and stakeholders. Depending on the company, the role may also cover AI strategy, data governance, experimentation, and the development of data products.
Employers commonly seek extensive experience in data science, statistics, machine learning, or a related discipline, along with a record of leading teams and delivering business outcomes. Strong candidates combine technical judgment with executive communication, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration. Familiarity with responsible AI, privacy, data quality, and cloud-based data platforms can also be valuable.
Chief Data Scientists work across industries including technology, financial services, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and consulting. The position may be titled Chief Data Scientist, Chief AI Officer, VP of Data Science, or Head of Data Science, depending on the organization’s structure. These leaders often work closely with engineering, product, legal, and business teams.
Browse vetted professional opportunities for Chief Data Scientists and related data science leaders on Ladders. Discover roles with salaries of $100,000 or more, compare opportunities, and find a position that matches your leadership experience and career goals.
$120K - $145K *
Unlock the potential of machine learning by designing robust data pipelines, enhancing data quality, and driving innovations in AI model training through collaboration and advanced engineering practic...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Explore data-driven solutions as you leverage analytics to enhance decision-making, develop innovative products, and improve data literacy within a collaborative team environment. Shape strategic init...
Yesterday
AI COE - Senior Data Scientist
$88K - $132K *
Join a team that's at the forefront of AI innovation, developing and deploying advanced machine learning solutions. Collaborate with experts to transform research into scalable applications, shaping t...
2 weeks ago
$160K - $200K *
Champion the development and deployment of AI and advanced analytics solutions to enhance decision-making and drive measurable business impact across Commercial, Medical, and Market Access functions...
1 week ago
$160K - $190K *
Lead the strategy and deployment of AI and advanced analytics solutions, enhancing decision-making and patient identification across commercial and medical functions. Collaborate with cross-functional...
1 week ago
Director - Scientific Data Preparedness, Data Foundry
$177K - $281K *
Drive innovation by leading scientific data preparedness initiatives, enhancing data harmonization and AI readiness across workflows. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to establish standards and...
5 days ago
Director - Scientific Data Preparedness, Data Foundry
$177K - $281K *
Transform the future of scientific data preparedness by leading initiatives that enhance data harmonization, AI readiness, and integration across workflows. Drive strategy and execution while building...
5 days ago
$125K - $150K *
Lead the charge in guiding cross-domain AI and data initiatives, while designing seamless data pipelines and empowering teams to deliver actionable insights and scalable data products for maximum busi...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Transform complex data into actionable insights by leading diverse teams in AI and analytics initiatives while enhancing client success through innovative data solutions...
3 weeks ago
Sr. Data Scientist, Programmatic Algorithms
$165K - $185K *
Transform marketplace dynamics by designing and deploying ML models that optimize pricing and inventory allocation. Collaborate across teams in a high-ownership role, enhancing efficiency and performa...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$211K - $266K *
Drive impactful data science initiatives by leveraging AI/ML to enhance cybersecurity analytics. Collaborate with a diverse team to modernize workflows and translate complex data insights into actiona...
1 week ago
$80K - $90K *
Join a dynamic team to develop cutting-edge AI and ML tools for optimizing DoD detection systems. Lead projects, mentor junior developers, and enhance military sensors through innovative software appl...
6 days ago
$80K - $90K *
Innovate cutting-edge AI and ML solutions to enhance DoD detection systems. Collaborate with a scientific team to develop software applications, mentor junior developers, and support field testing whi...
6 days ago
Senior Data Scientist - Demand Planning and Forecasting
$100K - $209K *
Inspire innovation as you develop advanced analytics solutions at the intersection of data science and cloud infrastructure. Collaborate across teams to transform complex data into actionable forecast...
3 weeks ago
Senior Director, Data Science, Core Insurance & Network
$240K - $315K *
Lead transformative data science initiatives in Core Insurance & Network, driving strategy and operational excellence while enhancing member and provider experiences. Collaborate with cross-functional...
3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Join a team that's redefining data analytics by bridging engineering and insights. As a key consultant, you'll design modern data platforms, optimize analytics delivery, and empower clients with actio...
3 days ago
Data Science Sr Director, Research Data Domain Lead
$160K - $200K *
Shape the future of research by leading the Data Enablement Hub, driving strategic data governance, and fostering collaboration across a matrixed organization to create a FAIR, AI-ready ecosystem that...
4 weeks ago
Sr. Staff Data Scientist - IAA
$150K - $180K *
Unlock potential by leading the development of advanced ML systems, driving technical vision, and integrating AI solutions across the organization to enhance operational efficiency and deliver impactf...
1 week ago
$117K - $201K *
Pioneer innovative AI solutions in data science to enhance therapeutic development workflows. Collaborate across teams to design, deploy, and evaluate AI systems that drive efficiency and compliance i...
5 days ago
$117K - $201K *
Drive innovation in AI and generative systems to enhance scientific workflows across Therapeutics Development & Supply. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver scalable AI solutions that su...
5 days ago
$117K - $201K *
Elevate your career by designing and deploying AI solutions that enhance scientific workflows in Therapeutics Development. Collaborate across teams to drive innovation and improve patient outcomes thr...
5 days ago
Sr. Data Scientist, Programmatic Algorithms
$165K - $185K *
Discover innovative ML approaches to optimize pricing, inventory, and yield in programmatic marketplaces. Collaborate cross-functionally while owning data architecture, model deployment, and real-time...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Data Science Sr Director, Research Data Domain Lead
$160K - $200K *
Join a dynamic team to lead the Research Data Domain Strategy, enhancing data governance and AI readiness while fostering cross-functional collaboration. Drive impactful change and innovation in a vit...
4 weeks ago
Chief Data Scientist/Data Analyst
$170K - $190K *
Join a team that's driving data-driven insights for Government clients. Leverage your expertise in data science and analytics to tackle significant challenges, develop innovative solutions, and suppor...
3 weeks ago
Exploitation Scientist / Data Scientist
$110K - $130K *
Drive the development of advanced GEOINT exploitation capabilities, leading multi-sensor workflows and mentoring junior staff. Collaborate with government partners to enhance intelligence production f...
2 weeks ago
What does a Chief Data Scientist do?
A Chief Data Scientist sets data science strategy, leads analytics and machine learning teams, and helps executives apply data-driven insights to business decisions. The role may also oversee AI initiatives, data products, and responsible data practices.
What qualifications are common for Chief Data Scientist jobs?
Employers typically look for deep experience in data science or a related technical field, leadership experience, and a record of delivering measurable results. Expertise in machine learning, statistics, AI, data governance, and executive communication is often valued.
How is a Chief Data Scientist different from a Data Science Manager?
A Data Science Manager generally leads a team or function, while a Chief Data Scientist typically sets strategy across the organization and advises senior executives. The exact scope varies by company.
Which industries hire Chief Data Scientists?
Chief Data Scientists are hired in technology, financial services, healthcare, retail, manufacturing, consulting, and other sectors that rely on analytics, machine learning, or AI.
What salary range can I expect for Chief Data Scientist jobs on Ladders?
Ladders focuses on vetted professional jobs paying $100,000 or more. Compensation varies based on factors such as industry, location, company size, and the scope of the role; review individual listings for salary details.