Lead Investments Data Scientist

M&G FA Limited; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent asset management firm in Greater London is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to drive data-driven investing. This role involves developing quantitative research and machine learning solutions that enhance investment outcomes. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in data science within investments and a strong programming background in Python and SQL. Responsibilities also include mentoring junior team members and promoting best practices in data science. The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package and supports flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Competitive pension scheme

Private healthcare

Flexible leave

Parental leave

Qualifications

• Strong experience applying data science in investments with proven track record.
• Deep expertise in quantitative research and machine learning applications in trading.
• Hands-on experience with relational databases and big data technologies.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with investment teams to identify data-driven solutions.
• Lead the design and deployment of machine learning models for investment decision-making.
• Communicate complex insights clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Skills

Quantitative research

Machine learning

Python

SQL

Data visualization tools

Cloud computing platforms

Big data technologies

Analytical problem-solving

Education

Advanced degree (MSc/PhD) in a quantitative discipline

Job description

Our purpose is to give everyone real confidence to put their money to work. With a heritage dating back more than 175 years we have a long history of innovation in savings and investments combining asset management and insurance expertise to offer a wide range of solutions.

Our two distinct operating segments Asset Management and Life work together to provide access to balanced long-term investment and savings solutions.

Through telling it like it is owning it now and moving it forward together with care and integrity; we are creating an exceptional place to work for exceptional talent.

We will consider flexible working arrangements for any of our roles and also offer work place accommodations to ensure you have what you need to effectively deliver in your role.

About the Role

Join our Investment Analytics Team as a Lead Data Scientist where you’ll partner with investment professionals and cross‑functional teams to shape the future of data‑driven investing. You’ll play a pivotal role in developing quantitative research and data science solutions that improve investment outcomes.

As Lead you’ll inspire and grow a global data science community fostering technical excellence and innovation and drive the adoption of data science best practice. You’ll also contribute to the development of internal tools and participate in R&D initiatives that keep us at the forefront of the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with investment teams to understand their challenges and identify opportunities for data‑driven solutions and build trusted relationships across the business.
• Translate business problems and opportunities into experiments and end‑to‑end solutions prioritising initiatives that deliver clear measurable value.
• Lead the design development and deployment of quantitative research and machine learning models to enhance investment decision‑making.
• Architect and implement scalable data science and ML systems leveraging cloud platforms and big data tools.
• Prioritise and manage multiple projects ensuring alignment with business objectives and timely delivery.
• Communicate complex technical concepts and insights clearly to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders using compelling storytelling to present assumptions, limitations and drive action.
• Stay abreast of the latest industry and academic developments in data science, quantitative finance and technology identifying those with potential business impact.
• Champion best practices in data science including code quality, security, documentation and agile methodologies.
• Mentor and develop team members fostering a culture of curiosity, innovation and continuous learning.

Experience & Skills

• Strong experience applying data science in investments with a proven track record of delivering end‑to‑end solutions from research prototype to production deployment.
• Deep expertise in quantitative research, backtesting, factor‑based investing and machine learning applications in trading.
• Advanced programming skills in Python and SQL; strong experience with data visualisation tools to present analysis to investment audiences.
• Hands‑on experience with relational databases, cloud computing platforms and big data technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to architect and scale data science and ML systems in a production environment.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex analytics into actionable business insights.
• Strong understanding of the investment process, trading across asset classes and financial markets.
• Proactive analytical and structured approach to problem‑solving with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
• Comfortable working under pressure in a fast‑paced environment; strong prioritisation skills and experience working in agile, iterative teams.
• A curious mindset with appetite to learn new technologies and techniques and to push for practical innovation.
• Advanced degree (MSc / PhD) in a quantitative discipline (Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Financial Engineering) or equivalent.

What we offer

At M&G we’re committed to supporting your wellbeing both at work and beyond. Our benefits are designed to help you balance your professional and personal life while planning confidently for your future.

We offer a competitive pension scheme, Share Save and Share Incentive Plan, flexible leave, parental leave, private healthcare and life assurance, and a supportive inclusive culture. For more details, visit Life at M&G.