Lead Data Scientist

AXA UK; Bristol, Bolton; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading insurance company in the United Kingdom is seeking a talented Lead Data Scientist to lead innovative projects using advanced analytics and AI. In this role, you will design and productionise machine learning models, collaborate with teams, and mentor junior Data Scientists. The position offers competitive salary, annual bonuses, and flexible working arrangements. Candidates must have strong expertise in Python, R, and machine learning techniques.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Annual bonuses

Contributory pension scheme

Life Assurance

Private medical cover

28 days annual leave

Employee discounts

Qualifications

• Proven experience in delivering end-to-end data science projects.
• Strong technical expertise in machine learning and AI.
• Proficiency in Python, R, and SQL.

Responsibilities

• Act as a technical leader in data science and AI.
• Design and productionise machine learning models.
• Mentor junior Data Scientists.

Skills

Machine learning

AI

Python

R

SQL

Stakeholder engagement

Collaborative mindset

Continuous learning

Tools

Azure

Databricks

Vector DB

Job description

Description

Are you passionate about turning data into actionable insights? Do you thrive on leading innovative projects that make a real difference? AXA Commercial is seeking a talented Lead Data Scientist to join our dynamic Commercial Data Science team. You'll be at the forefront of applying advanced analytics and artificial intelligence to create tangible value for our customers and the business. Your expertise will help shape data-driven strategies, optimise processes, and enhance customer experiences across the organisation.

As our Lead Data Scientist, you'll have the chance to collaborate with a skilled team of Data Scientists, Analysts, and Engineers, harnessing cutting‑edge tools like Azure Databricks to uncover insights and develop scalable solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to explore diverse datasets, solve complex use cases, and lead end‑to‑end projects that drive strategic decision‑making and operational excellence.

At AXA we work smart, empowering our people to balance their time between home and the office in a way that works best for them, their team and our customers. You'll work at least two days a week (40%) away from home, moving to three days a week (60%) in the future. Away from home means either attendance at one of our office locations, visiting clients or attending industry events. We’re also happy to consider flexible working arrangements, which you can discuss with Talent Acquisition.

What you’ll be doing:

• Act as a technical leader in data science and AI, setting standards and guiding best practices.
• Design, build, and productionise machine learning models and analytics products that deliver business value.
• Collaborate with senior stakeholders to identify opportunities, define requirements, and translate business challenges into data‑driven solutions.
• Oversee the performance and reliability of deployed models, ensuring continuous improvement and scalability.
• Mentor and support junior Data Scientists, fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
• Apply advanced techniques such as predictive modelling, generative AI, and statistical analysis to solve complex problems.
• Work with cloud‑based platforms and tools such as Azure, Databricks, and ML services, to deliver robust solutions.
• Ensure models are embedded into operational processes through MLOps best practices.
• Communicate insights and recommendations effectively to technical and non‑technical audiences.

Due to the number of applications we expect to receive for this role, we reserve the right to close this advert earlier than the listed closing date to ensure we’re able to effectively manage interest. Therefore, if you’re interested in joining us at AXA, please don’t hesitate to apply.

What you’ll bring:

• Proven experience in delivering end‑to‑end data science projects, from ideation to production.
• Strong technical expertise in machine learning, AI, and advanced analytics techniques.
• Proficiency in Python, R, SQL, and familiarity with cloud and ML tools such as Azure, Databricks, and Vector DB.
• Experience with MLOps and integrating models into production environments.
• Ability to assess model performance and apply techniques like data mining, predictive modelling, and generative AI.
• Skilled in stakeholder engagement and translating business needs into actionable solutions.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to mentor and guide junior team members.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying ahead of developments in the data science landscape.

As a precondition of employment for this role, you must be eligible and authorised to work in the United Kingdom.

What we offer:

• Competitive annual salary dependent on experience
• Annual company & performance‑based bonus
• Contributory pension scheme (up to 12% employer contributions)
• Life Assurance (up to 10 x annual salary)
• Private medical cover
• 28 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• Opportunity to buy up to 5 extra days leave or sell up to 5 days leave
• Wellbeing services & resources
• AXA employee discounts

To apply, click on the ‘apply for this job’ button, you’ll then need to log in or create a profile to submit your CV. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer and don’t discriminate against employees or potential employees based on protected characteristics. If you have a long‑term condition or disability and require adjustments during the application or interview process, we’re proud to offer access to the AXA Accessibility Concierge. For our support, please send an email to leanne.white@axa‑insurance.co.uk.
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Who we are:

AXA Commercial protects businesses, from multinationals to micro start‑ups, giving them the confidence to thrive. We’re currently making our biggest ever investment to develop the expertise and skills we need to be the best. We’re a vibrant community where everyone is supported to learn, develop, and take ownership of their work.