Principal Data Consultant - Northwest

83zero Ltd; Whitehaven; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A consulting firm specializing in Data Science & AI is seeking a Principal Consultant to lead client engagements and deliver data-driven solutions. The role requires significant hands-on experience and SC clearance is mandatory. Successful candidates will work in hybrid settings, collaborating closely with clients and stakeholders to drive business value through advanced data solutions. Join an innovative team focused on redefining the value of data science in various industries.

Qualifications

• Significant hands-on Data Science experience, ideally within consulting.
• Depth in Machine Learning and Predictive Modelling.
• Comfortable leading in hybrid models.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end delivery of Data Science and AI projects.
• Architect data models, ML pipelines, and LLM-powered solutions.
• Mentor junior team members and champion data science best practices.

Skills

Hands-on Data Science experience

Machine Learning

Predictive Modelling

LLM frameworks (Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Hugging Face)

Clear business narratives

Consulting experience

Stakeholder influence

Data governance

Job description

Principal Consultant - Data Science & AI - Northwest of England

💰 £80,000 - £100,000 base

📍 Hybrid - client-facing (multiple days per week on-site)

🔒 SC Cleared or SC Clearable - Essential

About the role

We're looking for a Principal Consultant in Data Science & AI to lead client engagements that transform how organisations use data. Working as part of a small, high-impact Data Science & AI squad (typically paired with a Senior Consultant), you'll design and deliver advanced data‑driven solutions - from Proof of Concept through MVP, Alpha and Beta stages. You'll spend multiple days per week on client site, engaging face-to-face with stakeholders, shaping strategy, and translating cutting‑edge data science into business value. Because of the nature of our clients, SC Clearance (or the ability to obtain it) is non‑negotiable.

What you'll do

• Lead the end‑to‑end delivery of Data Science and AI projects for enterprise clients.
• Architect and validate data models, ML pipelines, and LLM‑powered solutions.
• Oversee Proof of Concept, MVP, Alpha and Beta phases, ensuring measurable outcomes.
• Operate as the senior on‑site consultant, engaging directly with stakeholders several times a week.
• Mentor junior team members and champion data science best practice.
• Advise on data governance, model performance, and responsible AI principles.

What we're looking for

• Significant hands‑on Data Science experience, ideally within consulting or digital transformation.
• Depth in Machine Learning, Predictive Modelling, and LLM frameworks (Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Hugging Face, etc.).
• Ability to translate complex data science outcomes into clear business narratives.
• Comfortable leading engagements in hybrid models - client site and remote.
• Confident, credible communicator able to influence senior stakeholders.
• Must be SC Cleared or SC Clearable - this is mandatory.

Why join

Join a disruptive consulting firm redefining how Data Science & AI deliver value. Expect autonomy, experimentation, and the opportunity to work with some of the UK's most forward‑thinking organisations - all within a culture that prizes intelligence, agility, and client impact.