Careem, the leading Everything App in the Middle East, is seeking a Director of Data Science (ML) to lead its central Machine Learning and Data Science organization. This full-time role drives AI innovation, scales ML capabilities across Careem’s platform, and ensures AI is a key differentiator in enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Define and execute the vision and multi-year strategy for Data Science and Machine Learning.

• Partner with product, engineering, and business leaders to prioritize high-impact AI opportunities.

• Drive standardization, scalability, and platformization across ML systems.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead a high-performing team of 30+ ML engineers and data scientists.

• Foster a culture of inclusion, experimentation, and excellence.

• Mentor emerging leaders and develop technical and leadership capabilities.

Technical & Operational Excellence

• Oversee end-to-end ML system design, development, and deployment.

• Partner with engineering for robust ML infrastructure and MLOps.

• Innovate with Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs).

Product Impact & Delivery

• Ensure ML solutions deliver measurable business outcomes.

• Embed AI into user-facing experiences like personalization, ranking, and fraud detection.

• Establish success metrics and frameworks for AI initiatives.

Cross-Functional Influence

• Represent Data Science leadership in executive forums.

• Collaborate with Engineering Platform, Product Analytics, and Data Platform teams.

• Serve as a thought leader for AI innovation in the region.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• 10+ years in Data Science, ML, or Applied AI, including 5+ years leading technical teams.

• Proven experience building and scaling ML systems for large consumer platforms.

• Advanced degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or related field.

• Strong strategic, analytical, and communication skills.

• Passion for product-oriented AI and human-centered ML solutions.

Additional Information:

• Employment Type: Full-time

• Work Mode: Hybrid (4 days in office, 1 day remote), plus 30 days remote work from any country per year

• Benefits: Healthcare, fitness reimbursements, unlimited vacation days, professional development