π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Vice President, Decision Engine & Data Science
πΉ Company: Razor Group
πΉ Location: Boston, Massachusetts, United States
πΉ Job Type: On-site, Full-time
πΉ Category: Data Science & Analytics
πΉ Date Posted: April 17, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: 10+ years of relevant experience
πΉ Remote Status: On-site (Hybrid work arrangement with 3-4 days on-site per week)
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Owning the vision, strategy, and roadmap for data science and automation at Razor Group
- Collaborating with executive leadership to define key performance indicators (KPIs) and align algorithmic strategies with overall business objectives
- Driving the strategic financial direction of the business through innovative economic models and systems
- Staying ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies in e-commerce, pricing optimization, and advertising to identify opportunities for continuous improvement
- Leading a talented team in the presentation of findings, insights, and recommendations to executive leadership and investors
Assumptions:
- This role requires a high degree of ownership, autonomy, and the ability to shape the future of e-commerce at Razor Group.
- The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of driving profitability and growth through data-driven decision-making.
π Key Responsibilities
β Strategic Leadership:
- Own the vision, strategy, and roadmap for data science and automation at Razor Group
- Collaborate with executive leadership to define KPIs and align algorithmic strategies with overall business objectives
- Drive the strategic financial direction of the business through innovative economic models and systems
- Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies in e-commerce, pricing optimization, and advertising to identify opportunities for continuous improvement
- Lead a talented team in the presentation of findings, insights, and recommendations to executive leadership and investors
Assumptions:
- This role requires strong strategic thinking, business acumen, and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
β Algorithmic Development and Implementation:
- Lead the design, development, testing, and implementation of advanced algorithms for dynamic pricing, advertising bid optimization, and supply-side levers
- Oversee the development and maintenance of data pipelines that feed the Decision Engine with timely market data, competitor insights, and internal performance metrics
- Lead the data science team in the development of predictive models that forecast demand, price elasticity, and the impact of advertising campaigns
- Work closely with engineering and product leaders to advance the capability of the Decision Engine platform
- Proactively identify opportunities for improvement in algorithmic performance and implement solutions to maximize profitability and efficiency
Assumptions:
- This role requires strong technical expertise in algorithmic development, data science, and machine learning.
β Team Management and Development:
- Recruit, manage, mentor, and develop a team of experienced data scientists and analysts, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning
- Hire and onboard new team members, ensuring that the team has the necessary skills and expertise to achieve its objectives
- Provide guidance and support to team members on technical challenges, career development, and performance management
- Effectively delegate responsibilities and empower team members to take ownership of their functions
Assumptions:
- This role requires strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills, as well as the ability to manage and develop high-performing teams.
β Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Work closely with internal stakeholders across various departments, including brand management, marketing, supply chain, and finance, to ensure alignment and effective implementation of algorithmic strategies
- Build strong relationships with external partners, including advertising platforms (e.g., Amazon, Google, Facebook) and data providers, to leverage their capabilities and insights
- Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences, translating complex technical concepts into clear and actionable insights
Assumptions:
- This role requires strong communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
π Company Context
Industry: E-commerce & Retail
Company Size: 201-500 employees
Founded: 2020
Company Description:
Razor Group is revolutionizing the e-commerce world by acquiring and scaling profitable Amazon FBA businesses and other online marketplace sellers. Through strategic acquisitions, innovative scaling initiatives, and cutting-edge technology, Razor Group is building the next-generation powerhouse of consumer products. Headquartered in Berlin, Razor Group operates a portfolio of over 40,000 products across 3 continents and 10+ countries, with offices in Austin, Boston, Delhi NCR, Hangzhou, and Mexico City.
Company Specialties:
- E-commerce & Retail
- Data Science & Analytics
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Strategic Acquisitions & Mergers
- Global Expansion
Company Website:
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Executive (Vice President)
Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the CEO or another C-level executive
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3-4 days on-site per week, with flexibility for remote work)
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to shape the future of e-commerce at a rapidly growing company
- Opportunities to drive significant business impact and growth
- Exposure to a diverse range of industries and markets
- Potential to work with a talented, international team
ASSUMPTIONS:
- This role offers a high degree of ownership, autonomy, and the chance to shape the future of e-commerce at Razor Group.
- The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of driving profitability and growth through data-driven decision-making.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative workspaces with state-of-the-art technology and amenities
Office Location(s):
- Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Primary location for this role)
- Berlin, Germany (Headquarters)
- Austin, Texas, United States
- Delhi NCR, India
- Hangzhou, China
- Mexico City, Mexico
Geographic Context:
- Boston, Massachusetts, United States: A major tech hub with a thriving startup ecosystem and a high cost of living
Work Schedule:
- Standard full-time work hours with flexibility for remote work (3-4 days on-site per week)
- Potential for occasional travel to other Razor Group offices and industry events
ASSUMPTIONS:
- This role requires a willingness to travel occasionally and work in a hybrid work environment.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
1. Online application submission through the provided link
2. Phone or video screening with the hiring manager or a member of the HR team
3. Technical assessment or case study, focusing on data science and algorithmic development skills
4. On-site or virtual interview with the hiring manager, team members, and/or other stakeholders
5. Final round interview with the CEO or another C-level executive
Key Assessment Areas:
- Technical expertise in data science, algorithmic development, and machine learning
- Strategic thinking and business acumen
- Leadership and team-building skills
- Communication and presentation skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with Razor Group's mission and values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
- Prepare for technical assessments by brushing up on your data science and algorithmic development skills
- Research Razor Group's industry, business model, and recent acquisitions to demonstrate your understanding of the company
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, and company culture
ATS Keywords:
- Data Science
- Algorithm Development
- Machine Learning
- Pricing Optimization
- Advertising Bid Optimization
- Supply-Side Levers
- Team Management
- Strategic Thinking
- Business Acumen
ASSUMPTIONS:
- The interview process may vary depending on the specific needs of the role and the company's current hiring practices.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Python (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow)
- SQL (PostgreSQL, MySQL)
- Cloud Computing Platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure)
- Big Data Technologies (Apache Spark, Hadoop, Hive)
- Machine Learning Libraries (Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch)
- Data Visualization Tools (Tableau, Power BI, Matplotlib, Seaborn)
- Collaboration Tools (Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace)
ASSUMPTIONS:
- The required tools and technologies may evolve as the company continues to grow and adopt new technologies.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Innovation
- Data-driven decision-making
- Continuous learning and improvement
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Ownership and accountability
- Customer-centric approach
Work Style:
- Fast-paced and dynamic, with a focus on results and impact
- Entrepreneurial and adaptable, with a willingness to take on new challenges and learn continuously
- Strong emphasis on collaboration, both internally and with external partners
- Data-driven and analytical, with a focus on using data to inform decision-making and drive growth
Self-Assessment Questions:
1. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in data science and algorithmic development?
2. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to manage a team through a significant challenge or change?
3. How do you approach communicating complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders?
4. Can you describe a situation where you had to balance multiple priorities and deadlines, and how did you ensure the successful completion of each task?
5. How do you handle feedback and criticism, and how do you use it to improve your performance and the performance of your team?
ASSUMPTIONS:
- Cultural fit is crucial for success in this role, as Razor Group values a strong, collaborative work environment.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
1. Work-life balance: The fast-paced nature of the role and the company's growth may require occasional overtime or flexibility in work hours.
2. Technical challenges: The role involves working with large datasets and complex algorithms, which can present significant technical challenges.
3. Stakeholder management: Balancing the expectations and priorities of various internal and external stakeholders can be challenging at times.
4. Keeping up with industry trends: The e-commerce industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the latest trends and developments can be challenging.
5. Managing a high-performing team: Building and managing a team of experienced data scientists and analysts requires strong leadership and communication skills.
ASSUMPTIONS:
- These challenges are inherent to a role of this nature and can be mitigated with strong leadership, communication, and time management skills.
π Similar Roles Comparison
1. Vice President, Data Science & Analytics (Other companies)
* Responsibilities may vary, but typically involve leading data science and analytics teams to drive business impact through data-driven decision-making
* May require less focus on algorithmic development and more on strategic planning and cross-functional collaboration
* May have a broader scope, encompassing all aspects of data science and analytics, rather than a specific focus on pricing, advertising, and inventory management
2. Director, Pricing & Revenue Management (Other companies)
* Responsibilities may include optimizing pricing strategies, managing revenue growth, and analyzing market trends
* May require less focus on data science and algorithmic development and more on strategic planning and financial analysis
* May have a more narrow scope, focusing solely on pricing and revenue management, rather than the broader aspects of data science and analytics
3. Head of Advertising & Marketing Technology (Other companies)
* Responsibilities may involve leading the development and implementation of advertising and marketing technologies to optimize campaign performance
* May require less focus on data science and algorithmic development and more on marketing strategy and campaign management
* May have a more narrow scope, focusing solely on advertising and marketing technologies, rather than the broader aspects of data science and analytics
ASSUMPTIONS:
- These comparisons are intended to provide context and help applicants understand the unique aspects of this role at Razor Group.
π Sample Projects
1. Pricing Optimization Model: Develop and implement a dynamic pricing model that optimizes pricing strategies for thousands of consumer products, considering demand elasticity, competitor pricing, and other relevant factors.
2. Advertising Bid Optimization: Create and deploy an algorithmic system that optimizes advertising bids across multiple platforms, maximizing return on ad spend and minimizing wasteful expenditure.
3. Inventory Management System: Design and implement an inventory management system that forecasts demand, optimizes stock levels, and minimizes stockouts or excess inventory, considering seasonality, trends, and other relevant factors.
ASSUMPTIONS:
- These sample projects are intended to illustrate the types of initiatives the Vice President, Decision Engine & Data Science may lead, but the specific projects may vary depending on the company's current priorities and the role's evolution over time.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
1. What are the most pressing challenges facing the Decision Engine and data science team currently, and how can this role help address them?
2. How does Razor Group approach data governance and privacy, and how does this role contribute to maintaining data security and compliance?
3. Can you describe the team structure and dynamics of the data science and analytics team, and how does this role fit within the organization?
4. How does Razor Group measure the success of the Decision Engine and data science initiatives, and how will this role contribute to those metrics?
5. What are the most important qualities and skills you're looking for in a candidate for this role, and how do you envision this role evolving over time?
ASSUMPTIONS:
- These questions are intended to help applicants better understand the role, the team, and the company, and to demonstrate their interest and preparation for the position.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
1. Submit your application through the provided link: [Application URL]
2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
3. Prepare for technical assessments by brushing up on your data science and algorithmic development skills
4. Research Razor Group's industry, business model, and recent acquisitions to demonstrate your understanding of the company
5. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, and company culture
6. Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative within a week after your interview to express your continued interest in the role
β οΈ Disclaimer
This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
π Company Context
Industry: E-commerce & Retail
Company Size: 201-500 employees
Founded: 2020
Company Description:
Razor Group is revolutionizing the e-commerce world by acquiring and scaling profitable Amazon FBA businesses and other online marketplace sellers. Through strategic acquisitions, innovative scaling initiatives, and cutting-edge technology, Razor Group is building the next-generation powerhouse of consumer products. Headquartered in Berlin, Razor Group operates a portfolio of over 40,000 products across 3 continents and 10+ countries, with offices in Austin, Boston, Delhi NCR, Hangzhou, and Mexico City.
Company Specialties:
- E-commerce & Retail
- Data Science & Analytics
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Strategic Acquisitions & Mergers
- Global Expansion
Company Website:
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Executive (Vice President)
Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the CEO or another C-level executive
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3-4 days on-site per week, with flexibility for remote work)
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to shape the future of e-commerce at a rapidly growing company
- Opportunities to drive significant business impact and growth
- Exposure to a diverse range of industries and markets
- Potential to work with a talented, international team
ASSUMPTIONS:
- This role offers a high degree of ownership, autonomy, and the chance to shape the future of e-commerce at Razor Group.
- The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of driving profitability and growth through data-driven decision-making.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative workspaces with state-of-the-art technology and amenities
Office Location(s):
- Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Primary location for this role)
- Berlin, Germany (Headquarters)
- Austin, Texas, United States
- Delhi NCR, India
- Hangzhou, China
- Mexico City, Mexico
Geographic Context:
- Boston, Massachusetts, United States: A major tech hub with a thriving startup ecosystem and a high cost of living
Work Schedule:
- Standard full-time work hours with flexibility for remote work (3-4 days on-site per week)
- Potential for occasional travel to other Razor Group offices and industry events
ASSUMPTIONS:
- This role requires a willingness to travel occasionally and work in a hybrid work environment.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
1. Online application submission through the provided link
2. Phone or video screening with the hiring manager or a member of the HR team
3. Technical assessment or case study, focusing on data science and algorithmic development skills
4. On-site or virtual interview with the hiring manager, team members, and/or other stakeholders
5. Final round interview with the CEO or another C-level executive
Key Assessment Areas:
- Technical expertise in data science, algorithmic development, and machine learning
- Strategic thinking and business acumen
- Leadership and team-building skills
- Communication and presentation skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with Razor Group's mission and values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
- Prepare for technical assessments by brushing up on your data science and algorithmic development skills
- Research Razor Group's industry, business model, and recent acquisitions to demonstrate your understanding of the company
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, and company culture
ATS Keywords:
- Data Science
- Algorithm Development
- Machine Learning
- Pricing Optimization
- Advertising Bid Optimization
- Supply-Side Levers
- Team Management
- Strategic Thinking
- Business Acumen
ASSUMPTIONS:
- The interview process may vary depending on the specific needs of the role and the company's current hiring practices.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Python (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow)
- SQL (PostgreSQL, MySQL)
- Cloud Computing Platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure)
- Big Data Technologies (Apache Spark, Hadoop, Hive)
- Machine Learning Libraries (Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch)
- Data Visualization Tools (Tableau, Power BI, Matplotlib, Seaborn)
- Collaboration Tools (Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace)
ASSUMPTIONS:
- The required tools and technologies may evolve as the company continues to grow and adopt new technologies.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Innovation
- Data-driven decision-making
- Continuous learning and improvement
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Ownership and accountability
- Customer-centric approach
Work Style:
- Fast-paced and dynamic, with a focus on results and impact
- Entrepreneurial and adaptable, with a willingness to take on new challenges and learn continuously
- Strong emphasis on collaboration, both internally and with external partners
- Data-driven and analytical, with a focus on using data to inform decision-making and drive growth
Self-Assessment Questions:
1. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in data science and algorithmic development?
2. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to manage a team through a significant challenge or change?
3. How do you approach communicating complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders?
4. Can you describe a situation where you had to balance multiple priorities and deadlines, and how did you ensure the successful completion of each task?
5. How do you handle feedback and criticism, and how do you use it to improve your performance and the performance of your team?
ASSUMPTIONS:
- Cultural fit is crucial for success in this role, as Razor Group values a strong, collaborative work environment.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
1. Work-life balance: The fast-paced nature of the role and the company's growth may require occasional overtime or flexibility in work hours.
2. Technical challenges: The role involves working with large datasets and complex algorithms, which can present significant technical challenges.
3. Stakeholder management: Balancing the expectations and priorities of various internal and external stakeholders can be challenging at times.
4. Keeping up with industry trends: The e-commerce industry is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the latest trends and developments can be challenging.
5. Managing a high-performing team: Building and managing a team of experienced data scientists and analysts requires strong leadership and communication skills.
ASSUMPTIONS:
- These challenges are inherent to a role of this nature and can be mitigated with strong leadership, communication, and time management skills.
π Similar Roles Comparison
1. Vice President, Data Science & Analytics (Other companies)
* Responsibilities may vary, but typically involve leading data science and analytics teams to drive business impact through data-driven decision-making
* May require less focus on algorithmic development and more on strategic planning and cross-functional collaboration
* May have a broader scope, encompassing all aspects of data science and analytics, rather than a specific focus on pricing, advertising, and inventory management
2. Director, Pricing & Revenue Management (Other companies)
* Responsibilities may include optimizing pricing strategies, managing revenue growth, and analyzing market trends
* May require less focus on data science and algorithmic development and more on strategic planning and financial analysis
* May have a more narrow scope, focusing solely on pricing and revenue management, rather than the broader aspects of data science and analytics
3. Head of Advertising & Marketing Technology (Other companies)
* Responsibilities may involve leading the development and implementation of advertising and marketing technologies to optimize campaign performance
* May require less focus on data science and algorithmic development and more on marketing strategy and campaign management
* May have a more narrow scope, focusing solely on advertising and marketing technologies, rather than the broader aspects of data science and analytics
ASSUMPTIONS:
- These comparisons are intended to provide context and help applicants understand the unique aspects of this role at Razor Group.
π Sample Projects
1. Pricing Optimization Model: Develop and implement a dynamic pricing model that optimizes pricing strategies for thousands of consumer products, considering demand elasticity, competitor pricing, and other relevant factors.
2. Advertising Bid Optimization: Create and deploy an algorithmic system that optimizes advertising bids across multiple platforms, maximizing return on ad spend and minimizing wasteful expenditure.
3. Inventory Management System: Design and implement an inventory management system that forecasts demand, optimizes stock levels, and minimizes stockouts or excess inventory, considering seasonality, trends, and other relevant factors.
ASSUMPTIONS:
- These sample projects are intended to illustrate the types of initiatives the Vice President, Decision Engine & Data Science may lead, but the specific projects may vary depending on the company's current priorities and the role's evolution over time.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
1. What are the most pressing challenges facing the Decision Engine and data science team currently, and how can this role help address them?
2. How does Razor Group approach data governance and privacy, and how does this role contribute to maintaining data security and compliance?
3. Can you describe the team structure and dynamics of the data science and analytics team, and how does this role fit within the organization?
4. How does Razor Group measure the success of the Decision Engine and data science initiatives, and how will this role contribute to those metrics?
5. What are the most important qualities and skills you're looking for in a candidate for this role, and how do you envision this role evolving over time?
ASSUMPTIONS:
- These questions are intended to help applicants better understand the role, the team, and the company, and to demonstrate their interest and preparation for the position.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
1. Submit your application through the provided link: [Application URL]
2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
3. Prepare for technical assessments by brushing up on your data science and algorithmic development skills
4. Research Razor Group's industry, business model, and recent acquisitions to demonstrate your understanding of the company
5. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, and company culture
6. Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative within a week after your interview to express your continued interest in the role
β οΈ Disclaimer
This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.