Head of Risk Analytics and Data Science

The Role

We are looking for a senior leader to join and lead Block’s Risk Risk Analytics & Data Science. This group oversees all risk analytics and data science work across Block (including Cash App, Afterpay, and Square).

You will be a part of Block’s Risk organization and report directly to Block’s Risk Lead (akin to Chief Risk Officer), who reports directly to the CEO of Block. You will partner closely with senior product, business, engineering, machine learning, and operations leaders to measure and report on our risk and fraud programs, as well as Block’s lending product portfolios. Block’s Risk organization leads with technology and is very data driven; this role will play a large role in strategy, decision making, enhancing risk management capabilities, and supporting the growth of the company.

You Will 

• Lead and manage the Risk Analytics & Data Science organization (50-100 analysts and data scientists), providing strategic direction, mentorship, and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
• Develop and execute strategies for leveraging data analytics, reporting, and experimentation to address risk, fraud, credit, and compliance challenges.
• Partner and collaborate closely with some of Block’s senior-most product and business leaders to integrate risk management strategies into business processes.
• Maintain a deep understanding of regulatory requirements and ensure the organization's risk strategies align with compliance standards.
• Provide actionable insights to the Chief Risk Officer and executive leadership by delivering comprehensive risk analyses and reporting.
• Drive initiatives to continuously improve data quality, governance, and infrastructure in collaboration with data engineering, privacy, and security teams.

You Have

• 15+ years of experience working in analytics and data science
• 8+ years of experience managing large technical teams, including experience managing managers.
• Strong expertise in risk domains, including fraud, credit risk, and compliance, preferably within fintech, banking, or financial services.
• Master’s or PhD in Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, or a related scientific field is preferred.
• Proficiency in advanced analytics tools and programming languages such as Python and SQL.
• High degree of proficiency in data visualization using tools such as Mode or Tableau.
• Strong statistical and mathematical intuition with an appreciation for concepts such as causality, selection bias, incrementality, hypothesis testing, etc.
• Proven ability to lead and project manage large complex cross-functional initiatives.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to present technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, including executives and members of the Board of Directors.
• Track record of leveraging data-driven approaches to solve complex risk challenges.
• Intellectual curiosity and a passion for Block’s purpose of economic empowerment.