VP of Data: Facts, Skills, and Next Paths

A VP of Data sets the data strategy for an organization, leading teams that build machine learning models, run analytics, and maintain data infrastructure. Day-to-day work includes partnering with senior leadership to identify high-value problems, overseeing the development of AI-powered products, and ensuring data quality and compliance across the business.

Core responsibilities span technical direction, team building, and business impact. This role typically reports to a C-level executive or a senior VP and manages a cross-functional data organization. For example, Harnham is hiring a Director of Data Science to scale machine learning practice, CBTS seeks a VP of Applied AI & Data to own P&L and client engagement, and brightwheel needs a Director of Analytics to lead central analytics and deliver insights. MUFG Americas is looking for a VP to oversee AML compliance using data analysis.

The median salary for a VP of Data is approximately $202,500. The most requested skills in current job postings are Data Analysis, Python or R, Machine Learning & Deep Learning, and SQL — each appearing in 50% of listings.