Eric Cadena

About Eric Cadena

Lead Data Scientist (Machine Learning & AI)@ Accenture | Driving measurable, 8-figure impact across FAANG, Fortune 500, and global enterprises. I combine hands-on data science, strategic TPM, and cross-functional leadership in a way few can balance—turning data into narrative-driven value, scaling AI/ML systems with purpose, and leading with empathy. Current Role: Lead Data Scientist & Project Manager @ Meta (via Accenture) – Orchestrating AI/ML optimization initiatives through strategic oversight and technical leadership. I manage globally distributed teams, align cross-functional stakeholders, and drive infrastructure-level efficiencies. Impact Highlights:$70M revenue preserved: Ads Infra optimizations via DS/ML experiments.$50B+ revenue supported: Automated growth & performance reporting. 🤖 $1M+ saved: GenAI RAG pipeline for classification. 40% efficiency gain: ML app in energy operations.$1M lift /$500K CAC cut: Predictive modeling initiatives. Built 3 in-production software apps (ML/AI driven). 🤝 Built 2 in-production AI/GenAI systems (LLMs, agents, automation). Core Strengths: Building and scaling AI/ML solutions that drive 8-figure ROI. Leading cross-industry programs in healthcare, fintech, energy, and social impact. Bridging C-suite vision with data science execution. Background: 8+ years of professional Data Science leadership. 6+ years teaching AI/ML/FinTech at Ivy League institutions (Columbia, Rice, Northwestern). 🧑‍ Trained 200+ professionals and mentored 100+ real-world projects in NLP, CV, forecasting, and optimization. Technical Stack: Python, SQL, R, PyTorch, Hive, Presto, AWS, Azure, Databricks, LLMs in production.

Experience

1. Ai Ml Data Science Lead

   Accenture

   Mar 2022 — Present · Houston, TX, US

   Delivering end-to-end AI/ML and Data Science solutions for major clients across High Tech (Meta), Energy, Finance, and Healthcare.I specialize in building scalable machine learning systems, aligning technical strategy with business objectives, and driving measurable outcomes across complex industries. With a strong foundation in both data science and technical program management, I serve as the bridge between engineering execution and executive vision.Key Achievements: Saved over $70M in Ads Infrastructure Optimizations leading a global validation team, from compute efficiency savings to model deprecations, redesigns, or new model experimentations. AI Engineering - Built and deployed internal AI system for contract understanding and reinvention. Developed ML-powered platforms that boosted operational efficiency by 40% in the Energy sector Led cross-functional delivery of predictive models supporting $50B+ in revenue tracking AI Engineering - Built and deployed a GenAI/RAG system that saved $1M+ in manual classification labor Designed Rx allocation engine using linear programming to optimize humanitarian aid organization\'s supply chain Consulted on LLM-based systems for legal aid in human trafficingMy Approach: Blend technical fluency (Python, SQL, Spotfire, Power BI, Azure, AWS) with strategic insight Translate complex models into clear business actions Foster collaboration across domains—from data engineering to C-suite Leverage 10+ years of education and mentoring experience to scale data-driven cultures, communicate clearly and execute fast.

Education

• University of Washington

  Masters of Science

• University of Houston

  Bachelor of Science (BS)