Principal Data Scientist

Aviva; London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Principal Data Scientist, where you'll drive innovation in the insurance sector through advanced analytics and machine learning. This exciting role involves leading a high-profile data science team, collaborating with diverse stakeholders, and developing creative solutions that enhance decision-making. With a focus on Pricing & Underwriting Analytics, you'll have the opportunity to unlock value from data and shape the future of insurance. Enjoy a supportive work environment that promotes inclusivity, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to invest in your well-being and career growth.

Benefits

Bonus opportunity - 12% of annual salary

Generous pension scheme - up to 14% contribution

29 days holiday plus bank holidays

Up to 40% discount on products

Up to £1,200 of free shares annually

Supportive parental and carer’s leave

Flexible benefits including cycle to work

Paid volunteering days

Wellbeing support and tools

Qualifications

• Proven ability to solve complex problems using advanced analytics.
• Strong communication skills to explain complex concepts clearly.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team to deliver impactful data-driven solutions.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to improve business outcomes.

Skills

Statistics

Machine Learning

Deep Learning

AI

Communication Skills

Strategic Thinking

Commercial Awareness

Cross-functional Collaboration

Education

Degree in Mathematics

Degree in Statistics

Degree in Computer Science

Postgraduate Qualification (MSc)

Job description

Aviva is seeking a dynamic Principal Data Scientist to drive innovation within our Retail team.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to join a high-profile data science team shaping the future of insurance through advanced analytics. As the industry evolves rapidly, Aviva is investing heavily in machine learning and analytics as core capabilities.

Our team is recognized as a centre of excellence within the Global Data Science Department, delivering insights that enhance decision-making across the group.

About the job:

As a data science leader in Personal Lines, you will collaborate with diverse stakeholders to understand challenges and develop innovative solutions that improve outcomes for the business and customers. You will develop a deep understanding of business strategies and lead a team to deliver impactful solutions, exploring creative approaches to unlock value from data.

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in Pricing & Underwriting Analytics within personal lines insurance.

Skills and experience we’re looking for:

• Proven ability to solve complex problems using expertise in Statistics, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, or AI.
• Strong communication skills to explain complex concepts clearly to various audiences.
• Strategic thinking with strong commercial awareness.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams or external partners.
• Highly numerate, with a degree or postgraduate qualification (e.g., MSc) in Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science (preferred but not essential).

What you’ll get for this role:

We invest in our colleagues, offering numerous benefits:

• Bonus opportunity - 12% of annual salary, performance-dependent.
• Generous pension scheme - up to 14% contribution from Aviva.
• 29 days holiday plus bank holidays, with options to buy or sell days.
• Up to 40% discount on Aviva products and other retailer discounts.
• Up to £1,200 of free Aviva shares annually via our Matching Share Plan and Save As You Earn scheme.
• Supportive policies including parental and carer’s leave.
• Flexible benefits, including sustainability options like cycle to work.
• Opportunities to make a difference through Aviva Communities and paid volunteering days.
• Focus on wellbeing with support and tools available.

Learn more and calculate your total Aviva Reward on our website.

Aviva is for everyone:

We promote inclusivity and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Even if you don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. We support flexible working arrangements, including part-time and job share options.

Most of our staff work around 50% in offices, combining flexibility with collaboration.

For more about working at Aviva, visit our careers page.

We interview every disabled applicant who meets the minimum criteria. Please notify us of any disclosed disabilities after applying.

Apply online or contact Martyn Biddulph at 07826 556 965 or [e-mail] for alternative application methods.

About the company

We protect 33 million customers from life's uncertainties, offering life, general, health insurance, and asset management. Our unique position allows us to serve as a comprehensive insurer, focusing on customer-centric, sustainable solutions for a brighter future.