data science, data analytics, technical writing, compliance investigat

Ashley Robert Laughter, M.Sc.

*** *. ******** **., *******, NC 27527 919-***-**** *************@*******.*** LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ash-laughter-94876a52/ DATA SCIENTIST BUSINESS ANALYST TECHNICAL WRITER Results-driven Data Scientist with 5 years of experience in machine learning, predictive modeling, and business intelligence. Skilled in developing scalable, data-driven solutions that support decision-making, process automation, and business growth. Proficient in the full machine learning life cycle—from data exploration and feature engineering to model deployment using AWS tools.

Also bring 12 years of experience as a Technical Writer and Data Analyst, with a strong background in process optimization, statistical analysis, and cross-functional collaboration. Highly adept at translating complex technical concepts into clear, user-focused documentation, including SOPs, technical reports, investigative reports, training materials, and stakeholder communications. Experienced in mentoring junior analysts and supporting knowledge transfer through detailed, audience-appropriate documentation and onboarding resources. TECHNICAL SKILLS

· Programming & ML: Python (Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, Keras), SQL, Alteryx, PySpark

· Cloud / Big Data: AWS SageMaker, S3, Lambda, Ground Truth Labeling, AutoML, Canvas, Redshift, Studio, DataBricks

· Visualization & BI: Tableau, Power BI, Matplotlib, Seaborn, Excel, Word, PowerPoint

· Tools & Platforms: Jupyter Lab, Business Objects, SharePoint, GitHub, Confluence, Jira PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Enterprise Data Scientist Signet Jewelers Clayton, NC June 2023 – Present

· Image Recognition & Ground Truth Labeling: Collaborated with Amazon Turk to crowdsource the labeling of millions of jewelry images, significantly enhancing the accuracy and reliability of image audits while driving improved revenue performance for Signet.

· Real-Time Image Scoring: Developed and deployed multiple image recognition models using AWS Canvas to score diamond imagery in real time, streamlining jewelry repair workflows and ensuring the integrity of the chain of custody process.

· Database & Performance Metrics: Designed and implemented a front-end image database using AWS Redshift to efficiently store images, model scores, and performance metrics, leading to faster business decisions and enhanced operational efficiency across departments.

· Image Storage & Retrieval: Utilized AWS SageMaker, Lambda and S3 to build a robust system for importing and exporting images from the Gemscope environment, optimizing image storage and retrieval workflows for faster access to critical data.

· Time Series Forecasting & Economic Analysis: Created advanced sales forecasting models (ARIMA, Prophet, LSTMs) to improve the accuracy of long-range sales predictions, and developed macroeconomic regression models to optimize pricing and promotional strategies, contributing to more effective sales conversions. Data Scientist Tranzact Raleigh, NC Aug 2020 – June 2023

· Lead Scoring & Prioritization: Built and optimized ensemble machine learning models

(i.e., XGBoost, LightGBM, CatBoost, etc.) on Databricks using PySpark to prioritize incoming leads based on conversion likelihood, enabling more targeted and effective sales outreach.

· Call Center Operations Analytics: Conducted in-depth analysis of high-volume call center data to identify trends in agent performance, call outcomes, and customer behavior. Led initiatives to optimize call routing and outreach strategies using predictive modeling, and designed A/B tests to evaluate agent cadence and scripting impact on engagement and conversion. Insights directly informed operational decisions and campaign execution.

· Policy Placement Prediction: Designed and deployed a predictive engine to assess the likelihood of post-sale policy placement, supporting operational teams in streamlining onboarding and improving customer engagement strategies.

· Spam Detection System: Developed a real-time spam call classification system leveraging incoming call data and behavioral patterns to reduce unwanted traffic and enhance the customer experience.

· Churn Modeling & Retention: Implemented churn prediction models to identify customers at high risk of cancellation, enabling the creation of proactive retention strategies tailored to individual behavior patterns.

· Marketing Campaign Analytics: Analyzed marketing campaign data to assess effectiveness, uncover trends, and provide actionable recommendations. Delivered stakeholder presentations to guide future campaign strategies and improve execution across channels.

Technical Writer / Analyst

Sagent Pharmaceuticals Raleigh, NC Oct 2013 – Aug 2020

· Root Cause Analysis: Led investigations into systemic process issues, identifying key failure points and implementing long-term corrective actions that improved process consistency and compliance.

· Technical Reporting: Authored comprehensive technical reports summarizing root cause findings, proposed corrective actions, and performance metrics, ensuring clear communication with senior stakeholders and regulatory teams.

· Cross-Functional Investigations: Conducted interviews and data analysis during non- conformance events, working collaboratively with engineering, quality, and operations teams to recommend and implement process improvements.

· Stakeholder Communication: Delivered presentations tailored to diverse audiences, translating complex technical data into actionable insights that supported strategic planning and operational improvements.

· Automation of Operator Metrics: Developed tools to automate the tracking of operator performance data, streamlining collection processes and reducing manual input errors across operational workflows.

· Statistical Sampling Techniques: Designed and implemented batch sampling methodologies that enhanced production oversight, minimized inventory waste, and supported more efficient quality assurance practices.

· Mentorship & Team Development: Provided mentorship to junior analysts and supported onboarding efforts by sharing best practices in data analysis and continuous improvement methodologies, contributing to a stronger and more efficient team environment.

EDUCATION

M.Sc. in Data Science Lewis University, Romeoville, IL GPA: 3.9 Honors Society PUBLICATIONS & RESEARCH

· “Detection of Malicious HTTP Requests using Header and URL Features” – Future Tech Conference (FTC), 2020, Vancouver

· “A Study of Modeling Techniques for Prediction of Wine Quality” – Computing Conference, 2020, London

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