Lead Data Scientist

SBS; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

SBS is seeking a Lead/Principal Data Scientist in the UK to shape and deliver advanced data science solutions across products and client engagements. The role combines deep technical leadership with strategic direction to build scalable AI/ML models and drive product innovation.

The position offers hybrid work with on-site flexibility in London/Paris/Brussels, and a strong emphasis on governance, ethics, and client impact across financial services.

Qualifications

• Masters or higher in AI/CS/Data Science or related field.
• Strong background in ML, Generative AI, and explainable AI (XAI).
• Experience with cloud computing and data security best practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and delivery of advanced analytics, ML, and AI solutions across SBS platforms and client projects.
• Set best practices and standards for data science across the organization.
• Mentor junior and senior data scientists; foster high-performance teams.
• Develop and deploy ML models for customer segmentation, forecasting, and optimization.
• Ensure models are scalable, explainable, and production-ready (MLOps).
• Collaborate with Product, Engineering, and Architecture to embed AI capabilities.
• Identify opportunities to leverage AI/ML for banking products and client outcomes.
• Drive innovation with GenAI, LLMs, and predictive analytics.

Skills

Generative AI

Agentic AI

AI/ML model development

Feature selection

XAI techniques

Python

Java

Open-source AI libraries

GDPR & security standards

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder engagement

Communication & reporting

Cloud deployment

GenAI Retrieval-Augmented Generation

Education

MSc or higher in AI/CS/Data Science

PhD (preferred) or advanced degree in related field

Tools

Open-source AI libraries

Job description

SBS is seeking a Lead/Principal Data Scientist to join its growing Data & AI function in the UK. This is a senior, high-impact role responsible for shaping and delivering advanced data science solutions across SBS products and client engagements.

The successful candidate will combine deep technical expertise with strategic leadership, driving the development of scalable AI/ML models, influencing product innovation, and enabling clients to unlock value from their data.

Location: Greater London (UK), or Paris (France), or Brussels (Belgium)

Hybrid: Flexible Onsite Schedule

Responsibilities

Data Science Leadership

• Lead the design and delivery of advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI solutions across SBS platforms and client projects
• Act as a technical authority for data science, setting best practices and standards across the organization
• Mentor and guide junior and senior data scientists, fostering a high-performance, collaborative team environment
• Develop and deploy machine learning models for use cases such as:
• Customer segmentation and personalization
• Forecasting and optimization
• Ensure models are scalable, explainable, and production-ready
• Work closely with engineering teams to operationalize models within production environments (MLOps)
• Partner with Product, Engineering, and Architecture teams to embed AI capabilities into SBS solutions
• Identify opportunities to leverage AI/ML to enhance banking products and client outcomes
• Drive innovation through experimentation with emerging technologies (e.g., GenAI, LLMs, predictive analytics)

Client Engagement & Stakeholder Management

• Engage with clients and internal stakeholders to understand business challenges and translate them into data science solutions
• Present insights, models, and recommendations to senior leadership and client executives
• Act as a trusted advisor on data strategy and AI adoption
• Support the development of data strategy frameworks, ensuring alignment with regulatory and compliance requirements
• Promote best practices in data governance, model validation, and ethical AI usage

Qualifications

Required Background

• MSc or Higher in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Data Science, or a closely related discipline
• Strong grounding in machine learning, Generative AI, Agentic AI, explainable AI (XAI), and type-2 fuzzy logic systems
• Additional training or certification in cloud computing, software engineering best practices, or data security (desirable)

Required Skills

• Proficiency in Generative and Agentic AI
• Proficiency in AI/ML model development, including feature selection, XAI techniques, and consensus modelling
• Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, Java, or similar) and experience with open-source AI libraries
• Ability to integrate AI models into commercial software architectures and ensure compliance with GDPR and security standards
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills; capable of designing and validating algorithms
• Strong communication skills, stakeholder engagement, and technical reporting
• Experience with Generative AI Retrieval-Augmented Generation, and cloud deployment
• Familiarity with financial data structures and API integration (desirable)

Required Attributes

• Highly motivated, adaptable, and able to work independently while collaborating with academic and industry teams
• Commercial awareness and ability to align technical solutions with business objectives
• Strong organizational skills to manage complex, multi-stage projects
• Strong written and spoken English, with excellent communication skills

Preferred Experience

• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related field
• Experience with GenAI / LLMs and NLP applications
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks in financial services (e.g., GDPR, model risk governance)

Company Overview

At SBS, we’re more than just a technology company, we’re a global fintech partner helping banks and financial institutions transform, innovate, and grow. With over 5,000 employees worldwide and clients in more than 80 countries, our solutions power everything from digital banking and lending to payments and core banking systems.

As part of 74Software, we’re backed by a group of leading software companies delivering mission-critical solutions worldwide. Our focus is on delivering long-term value, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and fostering strong client partnerships. Join us and be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team shaping the future of finance.

Why SBS?

At SBS, we’re committed to supporting our employees in every aspect of their lives, from health and wellbeing to financial security and lifestyle perks.

We offer benefits that allow you to thrive at work and beyond, including health coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, flexible work, career development, competitive pay, and global culture perks.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to providing equal opportunities and ensuring a fair and inclusive recruitment process. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, or any other protected characteristic.