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.
Staff Data Scientist - Fraud & Risk
$150K - $180K *
Transform complex data into actionable insights by developing advanced machine learning models for fraud detection and risk management. Lead cross-functional initiatives, mentor peers, and drive innov...
3 weeks ago
Staff Data Scientist - Fraud & Risk
$150K - $180K *
Join our Fraud & Risk Data Science team to design and optimize cutting-edge DS/ML models. Lead technical initiatives, mentor peers, and drive impactful solutions in fraud detection and risk management...
3 weeks ago
Staff Data Scientist - Fraud & Risk
$130K - $160K *
Take ownership of advanced data science initiatives in fraud detection. Drive the development of deep learning models and optimize solutions that enhance risk management processes, mentoring peers whi...
3 weeks ago
Data Scientist (Data Analytics Officer) - Sr.
$110K - $135K *
Pioneer data-driven decisions by developing standardized performance evaluations that transform operational data into actionable insights, driving resource allocation, planning, and leadership decisio...
1 month ago
Client Coding Project Manger (CCPM)
$75K - $90K *
Transform your career with impactful auditing and training roles in risk adjustment. Collaborate with management to enhance coding compliance, drive performance improvement, and foster a culture of ex...
Reposted 1 week ago
$166K - $200K *
Shape the future of data analytics by driving impactful forecasting, operational analysis, and cloud product insights. Collaborate on innovative solutions to enhance data quality and infrastructure, e...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Senior Data Scientist, Generative AI Applications
$150K - $180K *
Grow your career with a pivotal role in architecting GenAI products, enhancing model performance and fostering innovation, while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to drive impactful so...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Senior Data Scientist - Applied ML
$166K - $214K *
Lead the charge in advancing machine learning solutions, driving impactful data science projects by collaborating with cross-functional teams and deploying scalable models to enhance business decision...
3 weeks ago
Deputy Assistant Director (Chief Academic Officer)
$100K - $120K *
Join us to lead academic governance and quality control at a premier institution, overseeing educational policies, accreditation, and faculty development to enhance national security education and tra...
2 days ago
$168K - $252K *
Lead the design and delivery of decision support systems and analytics solutions, enhancing decision-making for leadership. Collaborate with teams to ensure high-quality insights and technical excelle...
Reposted 1 week ago
$140K - $190K *
Join a team that's transforming clinical trials through advanced data science. Drive the development of predictive models and machine learning algorithms to enhance patient enrollment and trial manage...
1 week ago
Research Scientist, Clinical AI Evaluation Lead
$160K - $200K *
Champion the evaluation strategy for Health GenAI, driving clinical and technical excellence. Collaborate across teams to establish benchmarks, ensure safety, and influence product development, ultima...
1 week ago
Director, Advanced Analytics and Data Science - Innovation
$174K - $234K *
Shape the future of advanced analytics and AI, driving data-driven solutions across commercial, medical, and clinical operations. Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver insights, enhance decision-m...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Governance, Risk and Compliance Lead
$225K - $350K *
Join a dynamic team to drive critical GRC certifications from scoping to audit closure. Collaborate across functions, manage compliance processes, and build a scalable roadmap for compliance in a fast...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Principal Data and AI Architect
$190K - $255K *
Transform public sector missions by architecting innovative data and AI solutions. Collaborate with diverse stakeholders to drive technical strategy, ensuring compliance and operational success across...
2 days ago
Principal Data and AI Architect
$190K - $255K *
Lead the charge in transforming public sector missions through innovative data and AI architectures. Collaborate with diverse stakeholders to deliver actionable solutions that meet security and compli...
2 days ago
$130K - $241K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of AI and data solutions, leading a team to implement secure, production-grade capabilities while driving enterprise-wide adoption and governance practices in a dy...
1 week ago
$130K - $241K *
Join a team that's driving AI innovation and data governance to enhance business solutions. Lead a skilled group in developing production-grade AI capabilities while collaborating across functions to...
1 week ago
$95K - $115K *
Join a dynamic team where you'll analyze customer data to drive business success, enhance operational efficiency, and communicate insights with stakeholders through effective visualizations and dashbo...
3 weeks ago
Data Scientist, Sr - Artificial Intelligence, Cloud & Automation (Open)
$131K - $237K *
Innovate in cybersecurity by architecting AI-driven solutions supporting critical mission objectives. Engage in developing advanced toolsets that enhance real-time intelligence and network defense for...
4 weeks ago
Vice President, Data Scientist (Open Finance)
$233K - $374K *
Lead the development of advanced data science capabilities in Open Finance. Drive strategic initiatives, build a high-performing team, and collaborate across functions to transform financial data into...
2 weeks ago
Vice President, Data Scientist (Open Finance)
$244K - $390K *
Lead the transformation of financial data into actionable insights as a visionary in data science. Drive advanced analytics and AI initiatives, collaborating across teams to deliver impactful solution...
2 weeks ago
Director, Data Science and Machine Learning (Risk and Fraud)
$160K - $200K *
Lead and innovate within a high-impact team to design, deploy, and manage machine learning models that enhance transaction approvals, improve fraud mitigation, and drive business outcomes across payme...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Director, Data Science and Machine Learning (Risk and Fraud)
$160K - $200K *
Join a team that's at the forefront of innovation, leading the development and deployment of machine learning models for risk assessment and fraud prevention, directly impacting payment experiences wi...
3 weeks ago
Principal Forward Deployed Data Scientist
$235K - $285K *
Transform ideas into production-grade AI systems, collaborating with stakeholders to design, implement, and deploy autonomous solutions that meet business needs while navigating regulatory environment...
5 days 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.