Research Development Associate Jobs in Kitchener, ON

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Team Overview

TransUnion, a global leader in risk and information solutions and one of Canada's major credit bureaus, is seeking a visionary and strategic Principal, Fraud Data & Analytics to lead the evolution of our fraud analytics capabilities. This role is responsible for shaping and executing the fraud data strategy, driving innovation in fraud detection and prevention, and positioning TransUnion as a market leader in fraud intelligence. You will support a high-performing team, influence enterprise-wide decision-making, and represent TransUnion's fraud analytics capabilities to clients, partners, and the broader industry. This is a hybrid position and involves regular performance of job responsibilities virtually as well as in-person at an assigned TU office location for a minimum of two days a week.

Role Overview And Core Responsibilities

As the Principal, Fraud Data & Analytics, you will lead the strategic development and execution of advanced analytics and data-driven solutions to combat fraud across our client portfolio. You will play a pivotal role in shaping our fraud detection capabilities, driving innovation, and delivering measurable value to our partners. Your responsibilities will include:

Strategic Leadership: Define and execute the vision for fraud analytics, aligning with business goals and client needs. Lead cross-functional initiatives to enhance fraud detection, prevention, and mitigation strategies.

Innovation & R&D: Lead the development of advanced fraud detection models using AI/ML, behavioral analytics, and real-time data. Drive research into emerging fraud patterns and new analytical techniques.

Client-Facing Expertise: Serve as a trusted advisor to clients, translating complex fraud trends and data insights into actionable recommendations. Support pre-sales and post-sales engagements with analytical thought leadership.

Data Science & Modeling: Oversee the development of machine learning models, rules engines, and anomaly detection systems to identify and prevent fraudulent activity. Ensure models are explainable, scalable, and continuously optimized.

Product & Platform Collaboration: Partner with product, technology, and data science to embed analytics into our fraud solutions. Influence product roadmaps with data-driven insights and emerging fraud trends.

Performance Monitoring: Establish KPIs and dashboards to monitor fraud trends, model performance, and operational effectiveness. Lead root cause analyses and drive continuous improvement.

Industry Thought Leadership: Stay ahead of evolving fraud tactics, regulatory changes, and technology advancements. Represent the company at industry events, panels, and client forums.

Financial Stewardship: Manage budgets related to fraud analytics tools, data partnerships, and vendor relationships. Provide ROI analysis and business cases for strategic investments.

You will be instrumental in shaping the future of fraud prevention at TransUnion. You will drive innovation, elevate our market presence, and ensure our solutions remain at the forefront of the industry. Your leadership will directly influence product development, client success, and the protection of consumers and businesses across Canada and beyond.

Required Knowledge And Experiences

• 10+ years of experience in Fraud analytics, data science, and/or financial crime risk, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• 5 + Years of experience in Credit Risk, Collection and/or account management
• Proven track record of delivering enterprise-scale fraud detection solutions and measurable business impact.
• Deep expertise in fraud typologies (e.g., 1st, 2nd, 3rd party fraud, identity theft, money laundering), data science, and machine learning.
• Strong technical proficiency in tools such as Python, R, SQL, and cloud-based data platforms.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels, including executive leadership and external clients.
• Experience presenting at industry conferences or contributing to thought leadership in fraud analytics or financial crime.
• Advanced degree in a quantitative field such as statistics, mathematics, computer science, or engineering is preferred.

This job posting is for an existing vacancy. The opening is the result of a newly created position.

Accommodation is available, including for applicants with disabilities, in accordance with applicable laws.

TransUnion Overview:

At TransUnion, we encourage and are committed to creating a real, positive impact and shared sense of purpose within our Workforce for Good, which empowers our people to grow, innovate and contribute to a better future for our communities and customers. We strive to build an environment where our associates are in the driver's seat of their professional development- while having access to help along the way. We recognize that success comes when our associates thrive both professionally and personally; that's why we prioritize work/life flexibility and offer resources for our teams across the globe to collaborate and drive excellence.

Be a part of our Workforce for Good - you'll work with great people, pioneering products and cutting-edge technology.

TransUnion's Internal Job Title:

Principal, Product Management