Head of Data Science Cartography

About the Role

We are seeking a senior leader to head the Data Science function within our Cartography organization and define how Data Science, Machine Learning, and AI will transform mapping and location intelligence at scale. In this role, you will set the Data Science vision and strategy for Cartography, build and lead a team of high-caliber Data Scientists, and collaborate closely with Product, Engineering, Data Engineering, and other cross-functional partners to tackle complex problems across maps, locations, mobility, and geospatial data. This is a leadership position that blends strategic thinking, deep technical expertise, people leadership, and tangible product impact.

Key Responsibilities

1. Define, implement, and scale a state-of-the-art Data Science strategy and roadmap for Cartography, tightly aligned with product vision and business priorities.

2. Drive the development of AI/ML solutions that improve map accuracy, coverage, freshness, and location intelligence at scale.

3. Tackle complex geospatial and mapping challenges, including map matching, geocoding, POI intelligence, road networks, routing, and map quality.

4. Provide technical leadership across Machine Learning, statistical modeling, optimization, deep learning, and related Data Science disciplines.

5. Partner closely with Product, Engineering, and Data Engineering to convert complex business and product challenges into scalable, data-driven solutions.

6. Oversee the end-to-end ML lifecycle, from problem formulation and experimentation through production deployment, monitoring, and continuous improvement.

7. Leverage large-scale spatial, mobility, behavioral, and other data sources to generate actionable insights and power intelligent products.

8. Build, lead, and grow a high-performing Data Science team, including hiring, capability development, career progression, and succession planning.

9. Cultivate a culture of technical excellence, experimentation, innovation, and data-driven decision making across the organization.

10. Stay at the forefront of AI, ML, geospatial technology, and emerging technologies, identifying opportunities to bring new capabilities into Cartography.

Job Requirements

1. At least 10-12++ years of experience in Data Science or Machine Learning, including 5+ years leading Data Science teams or functions at scale (experience managing managers preferred).

2. Demonstrated track record of defining and executing a Data Science / ML strategy for a product or business line, with measurable business impact.

3. Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Operations Research, or a related quantitative field; Master's or PhD strongly preferred.

4. Deep technical expertise across Machine Learning, statistical modeling, optimization, and deep learning, with hands-on fluency in Python and at least one production language (Golang/Java/Scala) and Unix environments.

5. Experience designing and productionizing large-scale ML systems on big data and distributed computing platforms.

6. Prior experience in the geospatial, mapping, or location intelligence domain (map matching, geocoding, POI, routing, road networks, or similar) is strongly preferred.

7. Proven ability to partner with senior Product, Engineering, and Business stakeholders to translate complex problems into scalable, data-driven solutions.