Head of Data Science, AI and Data Visualisation

pladis; City Of London; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A global biscuits and confectionery company is seeking a Head of Data Science to shape its AI strategy and lead innovation through data. This role requires expertise in AI/ML, proven leadership skills, and the ability to influence key stakeholders. The successful candidate will drive the development of AI frameworks and enhance data visualization capabilities using Power BI. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing business.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading global data science and AI teams.
• Understanding of MLOps and responsible AI principles.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Define the enterprise-wide AI framework.
• Lead the development of a Responsible AI framework.
• Identify and deliver high-value AI use cases.
• Lead training in AI and data science.

Skills

Leadership

AI/ML lifecycle understanding

Data storytelling

Data visualization

Tools

Power BI

Job description

Want to help us bring happiness to the world? Want to join an ambitious and fast growing global biscuits and confectionery business investing heavily in iconic global brands, infrastructure and people? Then this is the place for you.

As proud bakers and chocolatiers and custodians of iconic global brands, we don’t compromise on the quality of ingredients in our products or on the people we hire. We are looking for entrepreneurial spirits who share our passion for bringing happiness to our consumers and who embody our Winning Traits.

To succeed at pladis you need to be purpose-led, resilient and positive to succeed here because we expect pace and agility, we insist on collaboration and demand accountability. If that is your thing, then pladis offers global ambition, a clear Vision and roadmap for success, challenge, and unrivalled opportunities to learn and make an impact

Click “Apply” to get started.

About the Role

As Head of Data Science, AI and Data Visualisation, you will play a pivotal leadership role in shaping and delivering the AI and data science strategy at pladis. You will be part of a growing and maturing Global Data, Analytics and AI team, working across global and regional squads to unlock value from data assets and enable smarter, faster, and more profitable decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

AI Strategy and Governance

• Define and maintain the enterprise-wide AI Framework, ensuring alignment with business priorities and ethical standards.
• Lead the development and implementation of a Responsible AI framework that is fit for purpose and scalable across pladis.
• Drive the Buy vs Build decision-making process for AI solutions, balancing innovation, cost, and speed to value.

AI Use Case Delivery

• Identify, prioritise, and deliver high-value AI use cases across global and regional business functions.
• Collaborate with product owners, data engineers, and business stakeholders to ensure successful deployment and adoption of AI solutions.
• Monitor and report on the impact of AI initiatives, including business value, user adoption, and model performance.

Capability Building and Community Leadership

• Lead the education and training of the pladis workforce in AI and data science, fostering a culture of data-driven innovation.
• Establish and grow a thriving Community of Practice for Data Science and AI, promoting knowledge sharing and cross-functional collaboration.
• Act as a thought leader and internal champion for AI, representing pladis in external forums and staying ahead of emerging trends.

Data Visualisation and Power BI Enablement

• Define and enforce visualisation standards and best practices to ensure consistency, clarity, and impact in reporting.
• Lead the upskilling of the pladis workforce in Power BI, including training, mentoring, and certification pathways.
• Oversee the development of enterprise dashboards and self-service analytics capabilities that empower decision-makers at all levels.

Qualifications and Experience

• Proven experience in leading data science and AI teams in a global, matrixed organisation.
• Strong understanding of AI/ML lifecycle, MLOps, and responsible AI principles.
• Expertise in data visualisation, particularly with Power BI, and a passion for storytelling with data.
• Demonstrated ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive cross-functional initiatives.
• Experience in building communities of practice and leading capability development programme

pladis is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to hiring a diverse workforce. All openings will be filled based on qualifications without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, age, religion or any other classification protected by law.

We operate a strict Preferred Supplier List. If you are a recruitment agency and wish to submit candidate to be considered for this vacancy, you must have agreed to, and signed, our terms of business. We will not accept CVs from any other sources other than those currently on our PSL. We will not pay a fee for any candidate that has not been represented by a provider on our PSL.