Head of Data & Analytics

NMI is seeking an energetic Head of Data & Analytics with a notable record of success to lead the design, coordination, management, security, and execution of all data and internal tools for the firm. The main objective is to ensure that NMI can accomplish more with less by providing each stakeholder with the data, analysis, and tools they need as opposed to what’s readily available. This high-ranking position reports to the CFO and will collaborate with a top-tier executive team and the Board.

This role guarantees that the firm possesses a world-class data and network infrastructure, security, ERP, and internal technology tools that are active and effective in the organization. If the business were a human body, then NMI desires an experienced, astute, fervent, and culturally aligned leader who can design, activate, and invigorate the company's nervous system.

You will be entrusted with assembling and managing a team of Data Scientists and related resources. As such, you must embody NMI’s vision as a leading digital business. The optimal candidate will bring experience in transforming the analytical abilities of a Private Equity supported company and aid in its propulsion towards an IPO.

This invaluable addition will be crucial to NMI’s ongoing success. It is essential that you have a history of transforming an analytics-oriented organization into one that employs data to boost growth and profitability. You have to be a high-impact achiever and visionary who inspires others and receives the respect of the already established data science and digital teams across NMI. You will collaborate with other leaders across NMI to create and execute a vision for data-driven decision-making. For instance, individuals should be able to observe the progress made in terms of Share of Wallet and Share of Market.

Responsibilities:

• Provide all functions with the necessary quality data and analytics for their roles, instantly, even before they realize they need it. Namely, data-driven decisions require timely, accurate, and relevant data. It’s your duty to harness and deliver this.
• Analyze, assess, and suggest network, security, telecommunications, data storage, machine learning, database and technology architecture: hardware, software, protocols, topology, and strategy. Design and implement the strategic data and internal tools roadmap in service of data, financial and strategic missions.
• Cooperate across functions and leadership to align key capabilities in the platform and architecture with the unique needs and requirements of the diverse NMI community. Devise a timeline for the development and deployment of data & internal tools services and publish, maintain, and instruct all stakeholders on the roadmap and roadmap process.
• Construct, lead, and develop a diverse group of skilled resources which may include database design and architecture, systems analysts, systems integrators, machine learning experts, network and data security specialists, project managers, and more.
• Ensure smooth communication and project coordination, both upstream and downstream, among multiple departments involved or impacted by data and internal tools development and releases (keep entropy low!).
• Select and manage key technology partners and tools for usefulness and compatibility by researching any new technologies that may potentially increase NMI’s competitive advantage. Participate in strategic negotiations to align the needs of the business with crucial profitability and legal considerations
• Define, monitor, and report on suitable operational and financial KPIs/OKRs and metrics for the Data & Analytics group to ensure transparency throughout the organization. Set up and monitor appropriate data and internal tools performance targets and ensure alignment with overall strategic priorities.
• Train the other functional heads on the role and purpose of data and internal tools and assist other departments in using information systems and technology effectively.
• Respond to feedback from stakeholders and use it to make improvements or adjustments needed to the data and internal environment.
• Manage and evolve NMI’s ERP system and all the software components to meet the strategic goals of the business.
• Monitor, assess, and adapt to market and technology trends to maintain market leadership.
• Participate in the strategic development of new partnerships, lines of business, or acquisitions to ensure both organic and inorganic levers for growth are aligned.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience leading Data Science activities and organizations leveraging systems to help organizations make data-driven decisions. Ph.D or M.Sc in Computer Science / Data Science / MIS, relevant technical field, or equivalent work experience.
• PE (or VC) backed company experience required, particularly in scaling to $500m+
• Background and experience in relevant mathematics areas (Computer Science / OR), especially predictive modeling, forecasting, and optimization.
• Experience developing strategic guidance and recommendations and presenting to a board as required.
• Knowledge of, and ability to assist in guiding relevant technology selections
• Demonstrated ability to lead distributed teams across North America, Canada, Australia, and the UK (culturally and operationally).
• Ability to manage the day-to-day activities indirectly through all levels of an organization, including Managers, Team Leads, and Individual Contributors
• Familiarity with a startup mentality and digital transformation within organizations.
• Mastery of current business practices and computing systems, data lake and data architecture requirements, interfaces, software and hardware requirements. Be the go-to source for all things data & analytics related.
• Strong understanding of information systems, management issues, and current trends. Expresses action-oriented and creative approaches to data and tools issues and problems. Lead by listening.
• Background in data analytics, database design, data integration, project management and planning, process mapping, group presentation, leadership, team building, written and verbal communication, analytical and organizational skills, and budget management.
• Strong planning, organization, critical thinking, decision-making and communication (verbal and written) skills.
• Proven success establishing strong relationships and working across all functions within the organization.
• Strong decision making and problem-solving skills. A systems thinker.
• Demonstrated experience in enabling a fast-growing organization with the information and insights needed to execute efficiently.