Lead Data Scientist, Ad Platforms – Driving Innovation in Advertising Technology with AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science

Introduction to Disney Entertainment & ESPN Technology

At Disney Entertainment & ESPN Technology, we are reimagining the future of media and entertainment by harnessing the power of technology to create magical viewing experiences for audiences worldwide. Our team is dedicated to evolving our streaming and digital products, powering global advertising and distribution, and delivering unparalleled entertainment and sports content. As a leader in the industry, we are committed to innovation, excellence, and making a difference in the lives of our partners and millions of people around the world.

About the Ad Platforms Organization

The Ad Platforms organization within Disney Entertainment and ESPN Technology is responsible for building, enhancing, and maintaining high-performance, distributed, microservice-based advertising platforms across all Disney online properties, including Hulu and ESPN+. Our team develops and maintains proprietary technology, ranging from ad serving and ad delivery to campaign management, reporting, and integrations. The Ad Platform research team is at the forefront of transforming advertising and Disney's Ad platform with AI, machine learning, and data science, focusing on measuring and optimizing every aspect of the advertising life cycle.

Job Overview

We are seeking an exceptional Lead Data Scientist to join our Ad Platform research team. As a Lead Data Scientist, you will play a critical role in driving groundbreaking innovation and applying data science and statistical analysis to enhance every aspect of advertising. You will lead data science analysis, develop data models, and drive data-driven decisions to optimize inventory forecasting, ad experience, ad pacing, pricing, targeting, and efficient ad delivery. If you are passionate about understanding the ad business, applying data science to relevant business scenarios, and seeking innovation opportunities to enhance business effectiveness, we encourage you to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive innovation and apply data science and statistical analysis to enhance every aspect of advertising, including inventory forecasting, ad experience, ad pacing, pricing, targeting, and efficient ad delivery
• Translate business questions into data science frameworks and develop data analysis and data models for complex ad challenges with fast turnaround
• Define and evaluate key metrics in various product areas and deliver data insights and provide data-driven recommendations to cross-team stakeholders
• Design and analyze A/B tests for machine learning algorithm iterations and establish strong partnerships with stakeholders, including product managers, engineers, and program managers, in a collaborative environment
• Mentor team members and support their technical growth, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or a related field of study
• 7+ years of relevant industry experience in data science at leading internet companies
• Solid knowledge of data science and statistics, with strong communication skills and business acumen
• Proficient in SQL, Python, Java, or R, with familiarity with Tableau and/or other visualization tools
• Passionate about understanding the ad business, applying data science to relevant business scenarios, and seeking innovation opportunities to enhance business effectiveness
• Proven track record of thriving in a fast-paced, data-driven, and collaborative work environment

Preferred Qualifications

• MS or PhD (preferred) in Computer Science, Statistics, or equivalent experience
• Experience in the advertising domain, digital video advertising, or digital marketing domain
• Experience with machine learning models, Airflow, data warehouse, Databricks, or Sagemaker

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At Disney Entertainment & ESPN Technology, we are committed to the growth and development of our employees. As a Lead Data Scientist, you will have access to a wide range of training and development opportunities, including mentorship programs, workshops, and conferences. You will be part of a collaborative and dynamic team, working on cutting-edge projects that will challenge and inspire you to grow professionally and personally.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Our company culture is built on a foundation of innovation, creativity, and excellence. We value diversity, inclusion, and respect, and we are committed to creating a work environment that is collaborative, dynamic, and fun. As a Lead Data Scientist, you will be part of a team that is passionate about making a difference in the lives of our audiences and partners. You will have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to the development of our advertising technology platforms.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary range for this position, with a hiring range of $152,000 - $204,100 per year in Los Angeles, CA, $159,408 - $213,840 per year in New York, NY, $159,500-$213,900 in Seattle, WA, and $166,800-$223,600 in San Francisco, CA. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also offer a range of benefits, including medical, financial, and other benefits, as well as a bonus and/or long-term incentive units as part of the compensation package.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and talented data scientist looking for a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Lead Data Scientist at Disney Entertainment & ESPN Technology, you will be part of a dynamic team that is shaping the future of advertising technology. You will have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to the development of our advertising technology platforms. Don't hesitate to apply – we can't wait to hear from you!