Director of Data Research

Harnham; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Harnham is seeking a Director of Data Research to lead a data research function that supports investment professionals with data-driven insights. The role blends strategic leadership with hands-on analytics, overseeing data asset evaluation, shaping research initiatives, and building scalable capabilities across research, data, and technology teams.

Ideal candidates bring commercial data science, statistics or quantitative research experience, strong Python skills, and the ability to communicate

Qualifications

• Commercial data science experience in finance, investment, or related fields.
• Proficiency in Python and statistical modeling.
• Experience with time series analysis and data quality assessment.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end data research projects from ideation to delivery.
• Evaluate new data sources and assess commercial value.
• Mentor a small team and collaborate with research, data and technology stakeholders.

Skills

Python

Time series analysis

Statistical analysis

Data science

Tools

Pandas

NumPy

Job description

The client is seeking a Director of Data Research to lead a data research function focused on supporting investment professionals with data-driven insights. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on technical expertise, overseeing the evaluation of new data assets, shaping research initiatives, and building scalable capabilities that influence commercial outcomes. The environment is high-growth and collaborative, bringing together research, data, and technology teams to address complex business challenges.

The Director will define the strategy for identifying and evaluating new data sources, assess the quality and commercial value of datasets, and design statistical analyses and modeling to validate potential data assets. Responsibilities include driving end-to-end research projects, improving data evaluation frameworks and processes, and supporting the adoption of advanced analytical techniques such as AI. The role also involves managing and mentoring a small team, fostering technical excellence, and working closely with stakeholders across various teams to develop new research opportunities.

Ideal candidates will have strong commercial experience in data science, statistics, quantitative research, or related fields, with proficiency in Python and experience applying statistical analysis and time series techniques to complex datasets. A solid understanding of data quality assessment, feature engineering, and modeling is essential, along with strong communication skills to explain technical findings to diverse audiences. Experience evaluating new datasets, leading research projects, and working with alternative data, financial data, market intelligence, or data products is considered advantageous.