Head of Data Science & Geo Spatial Analytics

About the Role

The Head of Data Science & Geospatial Analytics serves as the firm’s lead expert in quantitative, econometric, and geospatial analysis for commercial real estate, driving an integrated, data‑driven “Reimagining Real Estate” analytical framework. This role shapes data strategy across public, private, and proprietary sources, advances innovative modeling, forecasting, and geospatial capabilities, and advises on best‑in‑class quantitative methodologies used throughout the organization. In partnership with the Head of Quantitative Insights, the Principal Economist, and the Head of Forecasting, the role develops and implements a comprehensive data strategy that includes geospatial components, estimation techniques, and database architecture. It also deploys classification layers such as Places Lens, Risk/Reward matrix, and HALO, and identifies opportunities for new research, R&D, and innovative analytical products. The position acts as a strategic advisor on quantitative methodologies, ensuring best‑practice documentation and collaborating with internal and external technology partners to augment data assets. It provides guidance on specific quantitative initiatives, such as FVI/FVR and TIME Score methodologies, and leads selected high‑impact opportunities. Thought leadership is a core responsibility, with the incumbent producing analytical research, white papers, and industry‑focused reports that enhance Cushman & Wakefield’s brand. The role represents the firm at industry events and in the media, serving as a client‑facing spokesperson on the strategic implications of research findings. Management and talent development are essential, overseeing a team of subject‑matter experts in econometrics, machine learning/AI, and GIS/geospatial analysis. The leader coordinates complex, cross‑functional workstreams involving multiple stakeholders and drives the professional growth of the team. • Develop and implement the “Reimagining Real Estate” analytical framework. • Advise and shape data strategy across public, private, and proprietary sources, including geospatial components. • Deploy classification layers such as Places Lens, Risk/Reward matrix, and HALO into the data architecture. • Identify and lead research, R&D, and innovative analytical initiatives that add value to clients. • Partner with heads of Forecasting and Quantitative Insights to ensure consistent analytical product delivery. • Provide strategic guidance on quantitative methodologies and enforce best‑practice documentation. • Collaborate with internal and external technology partners to enhance data assets for research and analysis. • Lead thought‑leadership efforts, author white papers, and represent the firm at industry events and media. • Manage and develop a team of data scientists, econometricians, and GIS specialists. • Oversee complex, cross‑functional workstreams involving multiple stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸data strategy
• ▸geospatial analytics
• ▸classification layers
• ▸quantitative methods
• ▸team management
• ▸thought leadership

What You Bring

• Required: Ph.D. or Master’s in Economics, Statistics, Finance, Real Estate, Urban Planning, or related field. • Required: 7‑10 years experience in time‑series analysis, forecasting, econometric/ML modeling, GIS analysis; proficiency in Python, R, or EViews; strong written, oral, and client‑facing communication skills.

Requirements

• ▸phd
• ▸python
• ▸r
• ▸eviews
• ▸gis
• ▸communication

Benefits

The ideal candidate possesses deep quantitative expertise, a strong track record in advanced analytics, and exceptional communication and client‑facing skills. Compensation ranges from $204,000 to $240,000 and includes a comprehensive benefits package covering health, vision, dental, retirement, and more.

Work Environment

Office Full-Time