Associate Director Data Science & AI

BSI; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 72,750 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working hours

27 days annual leave

Health insurance

Life insurance

Pension plan with company contribution

Job summary

BSI is seeking an Associate Director of Data Science & AI to play a critical role in shaping AI and data-driven innovation. This strategic leadership position involves leading a team while being actively engaged in technical projects. The role requires expertise in AI applications and tools like Python, SQL, and Databricks.

The salary ranges from £72,750 to £105,000, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible working and 27 days of annual leave.

Qualifications

• Strong experience leading Data Science and AI initiatives in a commercial setting.
• Hands-on experience with Python and SQL.
• Experience with Machine Learning and AI applications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing team in Data Science and AI.
• Drive innovative AI and data science initiatives.
• Manage relationships with external AI platform providers.
• Support development of AI-enabled solutions for BSI clients.

Skills

Leadership in Data Science and AI

Python

SQL

Machine Learning

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Knowledge of Databricks

Knowledge of Azure

Tools

Tableau

Power BI

Elasticsearch

Job description

Associate Director of Data Science & AI

Location: Covent Garden / Hybrid Working

About the Role

BSI is looking for a Head of Data Science & AI to join our Group Innovation function and play a critical role in shaping the future of AI and data-driven innovation across the business. This is both a strategic leadership and hands‑on technical role, ideal for someone who is passionate about Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, emerging technologies, and digital transformation. You will lead a growing team of Data Scientists and AI specialists while remaining actively involved in experimentation, proof of concepts, predictive analytics, and AI solution development. Working closely with the SVP of Innovation and senior leaders across BSI, you will help identify opportunities where AI and advanced analytics can create meaningful business value, improve client solutions, and support future growth. This role will also play a key part in helping BSI strengthen its position within responsible and ethical AI, including alignment to emerging AI standards such as ISO 42001. You will collaborate across multiple business functions, technology teams, and external partners to design, test, and implement innovative AI‑enabled solutions that support BSI’s long‑term innovation strategy.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team across Data Science, AI, Data Engineering, and Business Analysis
• Drive the delivery of innovative AI and data science initiatives across the organisation
• Remain hands‑on in data science experimentation, proof of concepts, pilots, and AI‑related projects
• Identify opportunities to use AI, predictive analytics, and emerging technologies to create business and client value
• Collaborate closely with stakeholders across Innovation, IT, Digital, and Business functions
• Support the development of Digital Assurance, predictive analytics, and AI‑enabled solutions for BSI clients
• Manage relationships with external AI and data platform providers including Azure and Databricks
• Ensure operational alignment with responsible AI practices and standards, including ISO 42001
• Present AI initiatives, demonstrations, and innovation opportunities to senior leadership and external audiences
• Horizon scan emerging technologies, tools, and trends to help shape future innovation strategy
• Support AI governance, risk assessment, and strategic decision‑making across projects
• Work closely with technical and non‑technical stakeholders to translate business challenges into scalable AI solutions
• Contribute to the growth and maturity of BSI’s Innovation and AI capabilities globally

Qualifications

• Strong experience leading Data Science and AI initiatives within a commercial or enterprise environment
• Advanced hands‑on experience with Python, SQL, and modern Data Science tooling
• Experience working with Large Language Models (LLMs), Machine Learning, and AI applications
• Experience working with both structured and unstructured data sets
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, including presenting to senior leadership
• Experience leading technical teams, mentoring colleagues, and managing multiple priorities
• Knowledge of platforms and technologies such as Databricks, Azure, Elasticsearch, Power BI, or Tableau
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical thinking capabilitiesAbility to operate effectively within fast‑paced, evolving, and innovation‑focused environments
• Experience with AI governance, responsible AI frameworks, predictive modelling, and digital transformation initiatives would be highly beneficial.
• Passion for emerging technologies, experimentation, and continuous improvement

Salary

UK = £72,750 – £105,000

Benefits

BSI offers a competitive total reward package, flexible working hours, ongoing training and development, 27 days annual leave, paid sick leave, bank holidays, health insurance, life insurance, pension plan with company contribution, car allowance (dependent on role), income protection, paid maternity leave, paid paternity leave, paid parental leave, adoption leave, compassionate leave, paid bereavement leave, learning and development opportunities, and a wide range of flexible benefits that can be tailored to suit your lifestyle.

Equal Opportunity

BSI is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. BSI is committed to ensuring the diversity of its workforce reflects that of its clients and the communities in which it operates.

If you require any reasonable accommodations to be made on account of a disability or impairment throughout the recruiting process, please inform your Talent Acquisition Partner.