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.
Sr Director Analyst - Physical AI Safety & Security
$172K - $202K *
Lead research initiatives on emerging AI safety and security, guiding clients through innovative insights and strategic decisions. Engage with diverse stakeholders to analyze trends and develop compre...
2 weeks ago
$90K - $120K *
Drive the design and implementation of impactful data products, enhancing stakeholder engagement and insights through effective collaboration and production-grade coding in a dynamic environment...
1 week ago
$90K - $120K *
Drive the design and implementation of impactful data products, enhancing CREW's intelligence platform. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate stakeholder needs into effective solutions...
1 week ago
Director of Institutional Research and Chief Data Officer
$95K - $115K *
Unlock potential by leading institutional data initiatives and collaborating with stakeholders to enhance strategic planning and reporting. Drive data governance and ensure accuracy in compliance with...
Today
Manager, Product Owner - Data Curation
$110K - $130K *
Shape the future of data curation by bridging technical teams and business stakeholders. Drive product vision, prioritize backlogs, and ensure high-quality data assets that align with strategic goals...
2 weeks ago
$131K - $237K *
Unlock potential by transforming complex data into actionable insights that drive mission-critical decisions. Join a dynamic team to lead innovative data science solutions for the Intelligence Communi...
5 days ago
$131K - $237K *
Champion innovative data solutions that drive mission-critical decisions. Lead the design and operationalization of advanced analytics and AI/ML capabilities, collaborating with cross-functional teams...
6 days ago
$131K - $237K *
Lead the charge in transforming complex data into actionable insights that drive mission-critical decisions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop innovative data science solutions that e...
6 days ago
$131K - $237K *
Empower mission success by transforming complex data into actionable insights. Lead the design and operationalization of advanced data science capabilities, collaborating with cross-functional teams t...
6 days ago
$131K - $237K *
Unlock potential by leading data science initiatives that drive mission-critical insights. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop innovative AI/ML solutions, transforming complex datasets...
6 days ago
(USA) Distinguished, Data Scientist - Agentic AI Systems Engineering & Model Post-Training
$130K - $260K *
Join a team that's transforming supply chain operations through advanced AI systems. As a technical leader, you'll architect, build, and manage agentic solutions that address complex enterprise challe...
Reposted today
CHIEF DATA ANALYTICS OFFICER NF5
$150K - $180K *
Unlock potential by leading enterprise-scale data analytics initiatives, applying advanced statistical techniques and AI solutions to enhance business operations. Collaborate with executives to drive...
6 days ago
$81K - $115K *
Drive the development of innovative AI solutions in Finance, collaborating with stakeholders to transform complex data into actionable insights. Lead projects from conception to implementation, enhanc...
Today
$206K - $216K *
Join a dynamic team to design and optimize machine learning pipelines for e-commerce, leveraging advanced models and data governance to enhance personalization across multiple brands and markets...
2 days ago
$160K - $200K *
Analyze and validate datasets for AI/ML model performance, ensuring accuracy and reliability in engineering design decisions and building efficient ETL pipelines using Azure tools...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$160K - $200K *
Lead the charge in transforming engineering design data into reliable AI/ML insights. Drive innovation by validating model performance and ensuring data quality in a collaborative team focused on adva...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$160K - $200K *
Engineer robust data frameworks for AI/ML, transforming design and simulation data into reliable datasets that fuel high-impact engineering decisions and model validation...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$95K - $115K *
Unlock potential by designing robust statistical methodologies and data science solutions that enhance product quality and consumer insights, collaborating across teams to drive innovative outcomes in...
4 weeks ago
Co-founder & CTO, AI for predictable drug discovery and development
$200K - $250K *
Join a team that's redefining drug development through AI. As a technical co-founder, you'll lead platform development, establish predictive research, and build a technical team, driving innovation in...
Reposted today
Subject Matter Expert Data Engineer
$179K - $201K *
Champion innovative data solutions by designing enterprise databases and creating advanced analytics applications, leveraging expertise in high-performance computing and visualization to transform com...
3 weeks ago
Applied AI Scientist, Technology Partnerships (Senior/Principal)
$200K - $300K *
Pioneer quantum-native generative methods by collaborating with partners, validating approaches against trusted benchmarks, and producing evidence to drive innovation in computational science for real...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
CDAO - War Data Platform - Quality Assurance Manager
$139K - $197K *
Take ownership of quality assurance for the War Data Platform, leading governance and compliance efforts. Drive automated quality controls and ensure data integrity across complex systems, empowering...
1 week ago
Technical Program Manager, Release Management - C3 Agentic AI Platform
$131K - $190K *
Elevate release management for a cutting-edge AI platform. Collaborate with engineering and product teams to define release strategies, ensure quality, and drive successful deployments while managing...
4 weeks ago
Managing Director - Applied Research, Data & Analytics
$202K - $253K *
Lead strategic initiatives in risk management, overseeing multidisciplinary teams to enhance data analytics and insights for informed decision-making in housing and mortgage risk or risk data and anal...
Yesterday
Principal AI Scientist / Director, Statistical Modeling - Remote
$180K *
Lead the charge in enhancing and monitoring statistical/ML models to detect Fraud, Waste & Abuse in high-volume prescription transactions. Collaborate with teams to drive innovation and improve busine...
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.