Principal/Director, Data Analytics Consulting for Financial Services

We are seeking an exceptional Data Analytics Principal/Director to serve as a trusted partner to senior client executives (CTOs, CIOs, Managing Directors, Regional VPs) in Financial Services organizations. This role combines three critical capabilities: deep data and AI technology knowledge, strong consulting acumen, as well as a proven track record in program/delivery management. You will lead our Financial Services Offering portfolio in Europe, including buildout of capabilities, teams, and go-to-market strategies in partnership with other EPAM teams, and spearhead key engagements from sales, consulting, and delivery oversight perspective. If you can go beyond PowerPoint and guide senior executives through complex data transformation initiatives by deep diving into their Enterprise IT & Data landscape and offering them optimal solutions, then this role is ideal for you. Responsibilities Partner with client executives on key Data & AI initiatives — data strategy, enterprise-wide platform builds, and AI transformation from use-case selection through to production and adoption Actively contribute to the development and evolution of Financial Services D&A offerings; act as a go-to person in the region Nurture opportunities; own RFP/RFQ/RFI responses including winning strategy, formal response structure, and storytelling Manage FS project portfolio, provide regular delivery oversight for key engagements Build and maintain long-term client relationships centered around value delivery Lead initial phases of strategic engagements, including setting up program vision and definition of success, forming the right team, and establishing governance Consult delivery teams on regulatory and compliance requirements in the financial sector context, including the controls and evidence AI-enabled solutions must satisfy Coach and mentor next-gen consultants in FS D&A Requirements 15+ years of experience in data, analytics, and technology consulting, including leadership roles (Senior Manager, Director, or equivalent) within consulting firms, financial institutions, or advisory organizations Proven ability to lead large-scale data and AI transformation programs and act as a trusted advisor to C-level stakeholders Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Applied Mathematics, or related field preferred German language skills are a strong plus Deep understanding of banking and financial services, including data models, processing systems, operating models, and key business KPIs Knowledge of relevant regulatory and compliance frameworks, including Basel 3.1 / CRR3, BCBS239, AML/AFC, DORA, EU AI Act, and model risk management Expertise in modern data platforms, with implementation experience in AWS, Azure, or GCP environments Familiarity with Databricks and other enterprise data platforms Strong understanding of data architecture, data modeling, governance, lineage, observability, real-time processing, and enterprise-scale data management Ability to translate business challenges into data and AI solutions and advise executives on strategy, feasibility, risks, and value realization Experience across modern AI capabilities, including Machine Learning, RAG, Agentic Systems, and multimodal AI Understanding AI governance, human oversight, explainability, auditability, and deployment considerations in regulated environments Proven experience leading discovery phases, defining governance frameworks, and delivering complex enterprise data programs Ability to establish target operating models, drive stakeholder alignment, and oversee end-to-end delivery of transformation initiatives Strong understanding of computer science fundamentals, including algorithms, data structures, search technologies, and distributed systems