Lead Data Scientist

Data Idols; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 115,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology distributor in the UK seeks a Lead Data Scientist to act as the senior technical expert, delivering high-impact models and driving end-to-end delivery. The ideal candidate has extensive machine learning experience and strong skills in Python and SQL. This role encourages hands-on technical work while providing mentorship and influencing the technical direction. Competitive salary offered in a hybrid working environment.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Act as the senior technical expert, delivering high-impact models.
• Develop advanced models and improve existing pipelines.
• Collaborate with the Head of Data Science on major initiatives.

Skills

Building machine learning models

Python

SQL

Cloud environments (GCP preferred)

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.