Lead Data Scientist

Data Science Festival; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 115,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology distributor in the UK is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to take ownership of challenging modelling work and drive end-to-end delivery. You will develop advanced models while advising on best practices, collaborating closely with the Head of Data Science. Strong hands-on Python and SQL skills, along with experience in cloud environments, are required. This is a hybrid role allowing close involvement with technical decision-making.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience building, validating, and deploying machine learning models into production.
• Strong hands-on Python and SQL skills.
• Experience working in cloud environments (GCP preferred).
• Deep understanding of experimentation and scalable ML design.
• Ability to mentor others and influence technical direction.

Responsibilities

• Act as the senior technical expert within the team.
• Deliver high-impact models and set technical standards.
• Drive complex projects through to production.
• Develop advanced models and improve existing pipelines.
• Shape technical approach and advise on best practices.

Skills

Machine learning model deployment

Python

SQL

Cloud environments (GCP preferred)

Mentoring

Mentoring others

Job description

Lead Data Scientist

Salary: £115,000 – £125,000

Location: London/Hybrid

Data Idols are partnered with a leading technology distributor that is continuing to invest heavily in data. They are looking for a Lead Data Scientist who can act as the senior technical expert within the team, someone who delivers high-impact models, sets technical standards, and leads complex projects through to production.

The Opportunity

As a Lead Data Scientist, you’ll be the go-to technical authority, taking ownership of challenging modelling work and driving end-to-end delivery. You’ll work deeply hands-on, developing advanced models, improving existing pipelines, and ensuring solutions are scalable and production-ready.

You’ll collaborate closely with the Head of Data Science, shaping the technical approach, advising on best practices, and leading major initiatives. While not a people manager, you will support and mentor others by setting the bar for technical excellence and helping guide their development.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives as a senior IC and wants to stay close to the code and modelling while having a strong voice in technical decision-making.

Skills and Experience

• Extensive experience building, validating, and deploying machine learning models into production
• Strong hands-on Python and SQL skills
• Experience working in cloud environments (GCP preferred)
• Deep understanding of experimentation, evaluation, and scalable ML design
• Ability to mentor others and influence technical direction without formal line management

If you’re looking for a role where you can remain hands-on while owning major technical challenges, please submit your CV for initial screening.

Lead Data Scientist