Data Science Section Chief

Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization established in 1944 with the mission to promote global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world. The IMF has a diverse workforce of over 2,700 employees from more than 150 countries, operating in various regions globally to provide financial assistance and advice to member countries. The organization plays a crucial role in the global economy by providing policy advice, financial support, and technical assistance to its member countries.

Job Overview:
The Data Science Section Chief position within the Information Technology Department (ITD) Data Platform Division at the IMF is a pivotal role that combines strategic leadership with technical expertise in data science, econometrics, and big data solutions. The individual in this role will report directly to the Deputy Division Chief and will be responsible for overseeing the planning and delivery of advanced data science initiatives. This includes leading efforts in econometric modeling, computational economics, analytics, and machine learning to ensure that the data platforms effectively meet the business, policy, and research needs of the organization. The Section Chief will work closely with economists, financial sector specialists, business stakeholders, and cross-functional IT teams to deliver scalable and reliable analytical systems. This position is accountable for managing multiple complex projects and fostering a collaborative, innovative, and results-oriented team culture, making it essential for the candidate to possess strong leadership and people management skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Science Section Chief will be responsible for defining and leading the strategic vision and roadmap for data science initiatives, including econometric modeling, big data analytics, and machine learning capabilities. Key responsibilities include providing intellectual and technical leadership across all data science and modeling activities, overseeing the design and development of advanced econometric and statistical models, ensuring the operational support of these models, and managing the delivery of analytical solutions for both structured and unstructured data. The Section Chief will serve as the primary point of contact for business stakeholders, translating their needs into actionable analytical solutions. Additionally, the role involves managing multiple complex projects, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery, building and leading a diverse and high-performing team, and promoting collaboration across organizational units. Staying current with advances in data science and computational technologies is also a critical aspect of this position.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong educational background, typically acquired through an advanced university degree in Computational Economics, Finance, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field. A minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience is required for those with an advanced degree, while candidates with a bachelor's degree must have at least 14 years of relevant experience. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in econometric, economic, financial, and statistical modeling, along with demonstrated expertise in data science and big data analytics. A solid foundation in computational science, including experience with distributed and parallel computing architectures, is essential. Proven experience in managing large-scale analytical platforms and data pipelines across cloud and on-premises environments is also required, along with the ability to manage teams and complex projects in a fast-paced environment.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in Computational Economics, Finance, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree in one of these fields is acceptable, provided the candidate has the requisite years of professional experience. The educational background should reflect a strong understanding of quantitative methods and analytical techniques relevant to data science and econometrics.

Experience:
Candidates should have a strong background in econometric, economic, financial, and statistical modeling, with demonstrated expertise in data science, big data analytics, and machine learning solutions. Experience in designing and managing large-scale analytical platforms and data pipelines is crucial, as is the ability to manage teams and complex projects effectively. The role requires a proven track record of influencing senior stakeholders and managing stakeholder relationships in a dynamic environment.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential given the international nature of the IMF and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in languages relevant to the IMF's member countries.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified under the A13, A14 hiring levels, indicating a seniority level that requires significant expertise and experience. The selected candidate will maintain their open-ended status if they are a regular staff member, while contractual employees will be offered a Term staff appointment. The role may involve international recruitment, and the IMF is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process. Information on how to request accommodations will be provided during the application process.