LEAD DATA SCIENTIST – STRATEGIC INTELLIGENCE TEAM

northwesternmutual

Lead Data Scientist – Strategic Intelligence Team

Location: Milwaukee, WI | New York, NY
Team: Data & Analytics
Employment Type: Full-Time


About Northwestern Mutual

At Northwestern Mutual, we are committed to innovation, growth, and investing in our people. Our work is centered around making a positive impact, and we empower our employees to drive meaningful change.


Role Overview

Are you passionate about leveraging data science to generate strategic insights that shape company direction? Do you enjoy combining technical expertise with business acumen to deliver high-impact solutions?

As a Lead Data Scientist on the Strategic Intelligence Team, you will play a critical role in developing analytical solutions that influence Northwestern Mutual’s strategic and financial decision-making. You will collaborate with teams across the company—including Client Experience, Marketing, and Field/Distribution—to provide data-driven insights that transform business operations.

This role requires a balance of advanced statistical modeling, business consulting, and leadership to effectively translate complex data into actionable business strategies.


Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and apply advanced statistical modeling, data mining, and predictive analytics to identify trends, forecast outcomes, and drive business decisions.
  • Translate complex business challenges into analytical problems and deliver insights that inform company strategy.
  • Work with internal and external data sources to create robust data solutions for enterprise-wide decision-making.
  • Collaborate across departments to address data and information needs using innovative problem-solving and networking skills.
  • Mentor and coach junior team members, sharing best practices in data science, analytics, and business strategy.
  • Drive innovation by exploring new statistical techniques and experimentation methods to enhance decision-making.
  • Identify opportunities for technology improvements and work with cross-functional teams to implement solutions.

Required Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Operations Research, Computer Science, Econometrics, or a related field.
  • 6+ years of experience in data science, analytics, or statistical research, including experiment design, measurement, and data analysis.
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in predictive modeling using Python or R.
  • Strong experience working with multiple databases and developing analytics solutions with programming expertise.
  • Expert-level knowledge of advanced analytical model development and data-driven decision-making.
  • Strong ability to challenge assumptions, conduct relational analysis, and integrate data components to solve complex problems.
  • Proven ability to collaborate with business leaders and influence decision-making through data insights.
  • Experience leading strategic discussions, building consensus, and driving data-driven solutions.
  • Previous experience coaching and mentoring junior team members.
  • Demonstrated success in meeting tight deadlines and delivering high-impact analytical solutions.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • PhD in a relevant field (Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, etc.).
  • Experience with cloud technologies (GCP, Azure, AWS).

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary Range: $123,480 – $229,320 (compensation based on experience, location, and qualifications).
  • Flexible work schedules and hybrid work options.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, retirement plans, and wellness programs.
  • Employee Resource Groups supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

For location-specific salary details, visit our Compensation & Benefits page here.


Why Join Northwestern Mutual?

At Northwestern Mutual, we prioritize our clients and employees alike. Join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and impact. Grow your career in a best-in-class company with first-rate resources and opportunities.

🔹 Make an impact – Work on high-visibility projects that shape company strategy.
🔹 Career growth – Enjoy continuous learning and mentorship.
🔹 Flexible work – Hybrid and remote work options available.


Equal Opportunity Employer

Northwestern Mutual is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, gender, religion, disability, or any other protected status.


Ready to take the next step?

Apply now to join our team and drive innovation through data science.

💡 Not the perfect fit? Join our Talent Community to stay updated on future opportunities.


To apply for this job please visit careers.northwesternmutual.com.

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