Data Science Manager

About the Team

The Data Science team at Navi plays a central role in building intelligent solutions that power our products and drive business impact. We work across key domains such as Lending, Collections, KYC, UPI Growth and Ads recommendation, applying advanced machine learning/deep learning/GenAI techniques to solve high-impact challenges. Our work involves a diverse range of data types—including text, image, and tabular data—and we closely collaborate with cross-functional teams like Product, Business, Engineering, etc. to deliver end-to-end solutions.

About the Role

As a Manager – Data Science, you'll drive the strategy, execution, and impact of data science across Navi's high-growth businesses. You will lead a team of top-tier data scientists, shaping models and solutions that power critical business functions—from lending and collections to UPI and ads. This role goes beyond technical depth—you're expected to combine sharp analytical thinking with business-first decision-making, drive cross-functional collaboration, and establish scalable systems that deliver measurable value. If you're excited about using data science to solve real-world problems at scale, this is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

What We Expect From You

• Lead and Develop a High-Impact Team: Lead, manage and mentor a team of data scientists, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. Guide team members in their project work and support their career development. Will own appraisals , compensation queries and leave management of his direct reports.
• Set Strategic Vision and Drive Innovation: Set clear goals and expectations for the team and individuals, and regularly assess and improve team performance. Ensure alignment with organizational goals and provide technical direction.
• Build Strong Cross-Functional Partnerships: Cultivate trusted relationships with stakeholders in business, product, and engineering to identify opportunities, shape initiatives, and ensure successful implementation of data science solutions. Act as a bridge to integrate data science seamlessly into business functions.
• Implement Industry-Leading Standards for Model Quality and Monitoring: Define robust metrics and quality standards to evaluate model performance and outcomes. Establish and oversee best-in-class model monitoring systems to ensure reliability, scalability, and sustained impact over time.
• Planning & Strategic Initiatives: Lead quarterly, annual, and long-term planning processes, ensuring projects are prioritized and aligned with both immediate business needs and long-term strategic objectives.

Must Haves

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Economics, or another quantitative discipline. Demonstrates a research-oriented mindset with 7+ years of experience in data science or related fields.
• Strong foundation in statistics, machine learning (e.g., Random Forests, XGBoost, SVMs), and inference techniques, with expertise in hypothesis testing, simulations, and optimization methodologies.
• Proficiency in applying deep learning algorithms to solve complex data challenges, with hands-on experience in TensorFlow or PyTorch.
• Skilled in designing, executing, and scaling A/B experiments to validate and optimize data science solutions.
• Advanced Python programming abilities with extensive experience in building robust data pipelines in PySpark, performing feature engineering, and optimizing data workflows.
• Deep familiarity with libraries and tools such as pandas, scikit-learn, SQL, and Scala, with additional experience in MLOps frameworks like Docker, Databricks, and Kubernetes for production-grade model deployment.
• Demonstrated track record in developing and implementing large-scale machine learning solutions that drive business impact.
• Experience of leading projects with multiple team members / managing team is preferred

Inside Navi

We are shaping the future of financial services for a billion Indians through products that are simple, accessible, and affordable. From Personal & Home Loans to UPI, Insurance, Mutual Funds, and Gold — we're building tech-first solutions that work at scale, with a strong customer-first approach.

Founded by Sachin Bansal & Ankit Agarwal in 2018, we are one of India's fastest-growing financial services organisations. But we're just getting started!

Our Culture

The Navi DNA

Ambition. Perseverance. Self-awareness. Ownership. Integrity.

We're looking for people who dream big when it comes to innovation. At Navi, you'll be empowered with the right mechanisms to work in a dynamic team that builds and improves innovative solutions. If you're driven to deliver real value to customers, no matter the challenge, this is the place for you.

We chase excellence by uplifting each other—and that starts with every one of us.

Why You'll Thrive at Navi

At Navi, it's about how you think, build, and grow. You'll thrive here if:

• You're impact-driven : You take ownership, build boldly, and care about making a real difference.
• You strive for excellence : Good isn't good enough. You bring focus, precision, and a passion for quality.
• You embrace change : You adapt quickly, move fast, and always put the customer first.