Robert Walters
Contract Principal Data Scientist (Senior Data Scientist) The Opportunity
We're looking for a Principal Data Scientist (Senior Data Scientist level) to lead the development of advanced analytics, AI models, and data-driven solutions that deliver real organisational impact.
This role sits at the intersection of data science, AI, and business strategy, combining technical expertise with leadership to shape high-value initiatives and unlock insights from complex data.
What You'll Be Doing
- Build strong relationships with stakeholders to identify opportunities where data science and AI can deliver value
- Design, develop and deploy advanced analytics, machine learning models, and data products
- Lead and contribute to high-impact data science projects across the organisation
- Translate complex analysis into clear, actionable insights and recommendations
- Work closely with data engineers to ensure robust, scalable data pipelines and solutions
- Provide technical leadership, setting standards and coaching other data scientists
- Drive innovation and champion the use of AI and advanced analytics
- Contribute to best practice in data science, governance, and ethical use of data
Tech & Tools
You'll typically work with:
- Python and advanced statistical tools
- Machine Learning and AI frameworks
- Cloud-based data platforms (e.g. Azure ecosystems)
- Data visualisation and reporting tools
- Data engineering and transformation pipelines
What We're Looking ForEssential:
- Extensive experience designing and delivering data science and AI solutions in real-world environments
- Strong expertise in statistical analysis, machine learning, and advanced analytics techniques
- Proven ability to write and optimise complex code
- Experience working closely with data engineers and multidisciplinary teams
- Demonstrable contribution to building data science capability and best practice
- Ability to communicate complex findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences
Desirable:
- Experience working in agile, iterative delivery environments
- Understanding of user research and user needs in product development
What Makes This Role Stand Out
- Opportunity to lead and shape AI and data science strategy
- Combination of hands-on delivery and technical leadership
- Focus on delivering real-world impact through data
- Work across a variety of complex, high-value problem spaces
Key Skills
- Advanced statistical analysis and modelling
- Data engineering collaboration and data lifecycle understanding
- Storytelling with data and visualisation
- Data ethics, privacy, and governance awareness
- Stakeholder engagement and influencing
- Product thinking and delivery
What You'll Deliver
- High-quality AI models and analytical solutions
- Insightful dashboards, reports, and visualisations
- Scalable and reusable data science products
- Established standards, practices, and capability improvements
- Thought leadership in data science and AI innovation
Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates
To apply for this job please visit www.reed.co.uk.
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