Lead Data Scientist

Next Careers; Leicester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading retail company in Leicester is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to join the eCommerce Data team. You will own the algorithm roadmap for NextAds and design predictive models that enhance ad ranking. The ideal candidate will have a strong educational background in statistics or a related field and at least 4 years of experience in data science, particularly in personalisation systems. This opportunity offers a competitive salary and flexible working arrangements.

Qualifications

• 4 years of experience in Data Science focusing on personalisation or recommendation systems.
• Proven leadership experience to guide projects from conception to deployment.
• Strong proficiency in SQL, Python, and distributed processing (PySpark).

Responsibilities

• Own the algorithm roadmap for NextAds and architect solutions to drive incremental revenue.
• Design test and deploy predictive models to drive internal Ad ranking.
• Optimize algorithms for real-time decisioning and lead development of data science solutions.

Skills

Data Analysis Skills

Machine Learning

Strong communication skills

Proficiency in SQL

Proficiency in Python

Distributed processing (PySpark)

Advanced proficiency in PyTorch

Advanced proficiency in TensorFlow

Education

BSc, MSc or PhD in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science or related field

Tools

MLFlow

Databricks

Azure DevOps

Job description

Description

We are looking for a Lead Data Scientist to join the eCommerce Data team! Based from NEXT Head Office in Enderby Leicestershire with a competitive salary range and great benefits.

Lets talk numbers. When it comes to UK retail its hard to find a bigger name. We sell thousands of items an hour and are expanding our e-commerce business by the second. For anyone in Tech this is the place to learn. To grow. And to thrive.

eCommerce Data provides the department and the business the means to see what is working and what is not by drawing data and analysing patterns of shopping on our site and in general.

About the Role

As a Lead Data Scientist you will own the algorithm roadmap for NextAds architecting novel solutions to drive true incremental revenue. This is a unique opportunity to join a relatively new area of the business within a growing team!

What else is involved

• Architect & Build: Design test and deploy state‑of‑the‑art predictive models (e.g. Two‑Tower Recurrent Neural Networks XGBRanker) that drive the internal Ad ranking and assignment algorithms.
• Optimise Feedback Loops: Increase responsiveness of ad algorithms to real‑world events and outcomes in the pursuit of real‑time decisioning.
• Lead Technical Strategy: Proactively lead the design development and deployment of data science solutions.
• Production Excellence: Write robust scalable production‑grade code and champion best practices.
• Communication and Collaboration: Present outcomes to senior leadership teams and work with stakeholders across the eCommerce team to move towards shared business goals.

You’ll be doing all this from our Leicestershire Head Office. Our offices are inspiring yes. But we understand that life happens. So we’re big on making sure your work works for you which is why we offer flexible working. Bring your energy. Play to your strengths. Make things bigger and better than before.

About You

• BSc, MSc or PhD in Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science or a related field.
• 4 years of experience in Data Science with a focus on personalisation or recommendation systems.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to guide projects from conception to deployment.
• Advanced proficiency in PyTorch or TensorFlow.
• Strong proficiency in SQL, Python and distributed processing (PySpark).
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex data insights into actionable business strategies.

Preferred

• Experience in AdTech.
• Familiarity with MLFlow, Databricks and Azure DevOps.

Key Skills

• Laboratory Experience
• Immunoassays
• Machine Learning
• Biochemistry
• Assays
• Research Experience
• Spectroscopy
• Research & Development
• cGMP
• Cell Culture
• Molecular Biology
• Data Analysis Skills

Employment Type: Full‑Time

Experience: years

Vacancy: 1