Data Science Group Lead

About Pagaya Pagaya is a global technology company making life-changing financial products and services available to more people nationwide, as it reshapes the financial services ecosystem. By using machine learning, a vast data network and a sophisticated AI-driven approach, Pagaya provides comprehensive consumer credit and residential real estate solutions for its partners, their customers, and investors. Its proprietary API and capital solutions integrate into its network of partners to deliver seamless user experiences and greater access to the mainstream economy. Pagaya has offices in New York and Tel Aviv. For more information, visit pagaya.com . About the Role The Group Lead is a critical leadership position within Pagaya. This role involves managing a high-performing group responsible for driving profitability and strategic decision-making through advanced data analytics, optimization strategies, and predictive modeling related to loan funding and issuance (specifically in the Personal Loans product, which is Pagaya’s largest product). This is primarily a management-focused role, requiring a high level of technical understanding to guide the team, combined with the professional maturity and executive presence necessary to effectively collaborate with and present to company leadership. Responsibilities Leading, mentoring and managing a multidisciplinary group comprising Data Scientists, Data Analysts and Optimization Specialists. Defining and executing overall strategy, ensuring alignment with the company’s financial goals and product roadmap. Oversighting of the group's projects, initiating new ideas and proactively improving the company’s abilities. Fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making, continuous learning, and high-velocity iteration within the team. Directing the team in performing sophisticated data analytics to identify trends, market anomalies, and segmentation opportunities impacting profitability. Leading the development and implementation of optimization algorithms and strategies aimed at maximizing loan portfolio performance, minimizing risk, and increasing overall profitability. Translating complex data insights into clear, actionable business recommendations for partnerships and operational teams, to ensure seamless integration of data-driven solutions. Serving as the primary representative of the group, presenting complex findings, strategic recommendations, and group performance metrics to the company's executive team and other departments. Guiding the development, validation, and deployment of advanced predictive models to enhance performance. Requirements 8+ years professional experience in Data Science or Data Analytics, preferably within FinTech. Proven experience 5+ years managing and mentoring multidisciplinary teams of Data Scientists and Analysts in a fast-paced environment. High-level understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning techniques, and optimization algorithms. Master's degree or Ph.D. in a quantitative field such as Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Operations Research, or Computer Science. Descent knowledge in programming languages (e.g., Python) and databases (SQL). Experience with cloud computing environments is a plus. An authoritative leader who navigates high-stakes environments with strategic maturity and exceptional communication. Our Team Pagaya was founded in 2016 by seasoned research, finance, and technology entrepreneurs, and we are now 500+ strong in New York, Los Angeles, and Tel Aviv. We move fast and smart, identifying new opportunities and building end-to-end solutions from AI models and unique data sources. Every Pagaya team member is solving new and exciting challenges every day in a culture based on partnership, collaboration, and community. Join a team of builders who are working every day to enable better outcomes for our partners and their customers. Our Values Our values are at the heart of everything we do. We believe great solution…