Jay Kachhadia is a Data Science Manager at Paramount+, where he focuses on applying machine learning and analytics to inform large-scale content strategy and investment decisions. His work supports high-stakes decision-making around content forecasting, portfolio optimization, and business planning, influencing investments valued at over $100 million.

Before transitioning into data science, Jay worked as a VFX artist, an experience that shaped his interest in the intersection of creativity, technology, and storytelling. This background continues to inform his approach to analytics—bridging creative intuition with data-driven rigor in the entertainment industry.

Jay has held multiple leadership and mentorship roles throughout his career and academic journey, including serving as President of the Data Science Club at Syracuse University and leading developer and student initiatives during his graduate studies. He is passionate about helping emerging STEM professionals develop practical judgment, critical thinking, and confidence in applying technical skills to real-world problems.

Outside of work, Jay enjoys skateboarding, particularly riding a Onewheel, which he sees as a way to stay active, focused, and balanced. He believes in persistence, clarity, and continuous learning, and is motivated by opportunities to build impactful systems while supporting the growth of others in the STEM community.

What are you most proud of in your work or life?

What I’m most proud of is building work that has real, measurable impact beyond the immediate scope of my role. In my career, I’ve focused on creating data science and machine learning solutions that leadership can rely on for important decisions, and seeing that work influence large-scale, high-stakes outcomes has been deeply meaningful to me.

Equally important to me has been helping others grow. Whether through leading teams, serving in student and professional leadership roles, or mentoring, I’ve found a lot of fulfillment in helping people develop clarity and confidence in their technical thinking and career choices. Seeing someone make better decisions or progress because of guidance I’ve shared is something I value highly.

At a personal level, I’m proud of the consistency and discipline it’s taken to grow from an early interest in technology into a role where I can both contribute meaningfully and help shape how others approach complex problems.

What are your passions and hobbies?

I’m deeply passionate about the intersection of technology and entertainment. Before moving into data science, I worked as a VFX artist, and that experience shaped how I think about creativity, storytelling, and the role technology plays in bringing ideas to life. Even today, working in the entertainment space keeps me energized because I enjoy helping creative decisions be informed by thoughtful, data-driven insights rather than intuition alone.

Outside of work, I love skateboarding—specifically riding a Onewheel. It’s something I do both for fun and as a way to clear my head. I enjoy the balance, focus, and flow it requires, and it’s been a great way for me to stay active while exploring new places and disconnecting from screens for a bit.

Do you have a personal motto or other words to live by?

I try to live by “it’s not over until we win.” It reminds me that setbacks are part of the process and that persistence often matters more than initial advantage.

Favorite snack food?

Snickers Ice-cream bars