Head of Data Science

Lightspark is the easiest, most reliable, enterprise-grade gateway to the Lightning Network, enabling money to move just like bits and bytes do on the Internet. Lightspark services aim to be the fastest, lowest cost, easiest and most reliable way to send and receive payments globally using Lightning. We want to deliver open payments for the Internet at scale and we’re laser-focused on solving real problems for our customers with best-in-class innovative software solutions. We aim to help businesses around the world benefit from real time payments and build amazing new experiences for themselves and their customers. Lightspark is headquartered in Los Angeles but serving the world.

Lightspark is seeking a Head of Data Science to lead our data science team. In this role, you'll be responsible for driving our data science strategy, developing cutting-edge products, leveraging data-driven insights to shape business decisions, and growing the data science team. You'll work closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, product, and marketing, to ensure that data science initiatives align with business goals and enhance our platform's capabilities.

What you’ll be doing:

• Develop and execute a data science strategy that supports Lightspark's business objectives and fosters a culture of data-driven decision-making.
• Define and implement data strategies that drive business growth, optimize product offerings, and enhance customer experiences.
• Utilize advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI to solve complex business problems, uncover insights, and create data-driven solutions.
• Work closely with engineering, product, and marketing teams to integrate data science solutions into products and ensure data-driven insights inform business strategies.
• Stay at the forefront of data science trends and technologies, identifying opportunities for innovation and ensuring Lightspark remains a leader in the industry.
• Present data-driven insights and recommendations to senior leadership and other stakeholders, ensuring clear communication of complex concepts.

What we’re looking for:

• Ph.D. in Economics, Computer Science, Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in data science.
• Experience leading and managing teams in a high-growth environment, preferably in crypto or fintech.
• Strong proficiency in data science tools and programming languages, such as Python, R, SQL, and experience.
• Expertise in statistical analysis, predictive modeling, machine learning, and AI technologies.
• Ability to develop and communicate a clear vision for data science initiatives that align with business goals.
• Experience working successfully with cross functional teams
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex data concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen ability to leverage data to drive business outcomes.
• Located in or willing to relocate to Los Angeles, California

Lightspark is on a mission to build an open payment protocol for the Internet at scale and therefore we’re committed to creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace to reflect the customers we serve. We welcome interest from individuals of all backgrounds and levels of experience who share our mission. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.