Head of Data Science

Location: Birmingham or "Hybrid / Flexible"
Salary: Competitive + Bonus + Benefits
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Lead the future of AI and data-driven innovation.
We're looking for a visionary and hands-on Head of Data Science to define and execute our enterprise-wide data science strategy. You'll drive the adoption of Generative AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics across all business sectors, building the capabilities, team, and infrastructure to unlock high-impact, scalable innovation.

Head of Data Science

Location: Birmingham or "Hybrid / Flexible"
Salary: Competitive + Bonus + Benefits
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Lead the future of AI and data-driven innovation.
We're looking for a visionary and hands-on Head of Data Science to define and execute our enterprise-wide data science strategy. You'll drive the adoption of Generative AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics across all business sectors, building the capabilities, team, and infrastructure to unlock high-impact, scalable innovation.

• Define and deliver the data science vision, spanning GenAI, ML, and advanced analytics.

• Establish an AI Centre of Excellence to embed a data-first culture across the business.

• Be the senior voice on AI in leadership forums - shaping how data science drives strategic value.

• Deliver enterprise-scale GenAI apps (e.g. virtual assistants, copilots, RAG systems).

• Develop robust LLMOps pipelines for scalable AI deployment and governance.

• Lead classical ML initiatives alongside engineering teams - from training to monitoring.

• Stay ahead of emerging trends in AI/ML to inform technology adoption.

• Build tooling and frameworks for experimentation, A/B testing, and predictive modelling.

• Define ethical and governance standards for responsible AI use.

• Build and mentor a high-performing data science function embedded in product and business teams.

• Define team structure, tooling, and hiring roadmap to scale capability and impact.

• Act as a trusted advisor to commercial, product, finance, and marketing leaders.

• Proven experience leading enterprise data science teams in complex or product-led environments.

• A track record of delivering GenAI solutions using LLMs, prompt engineering, and RAG architectures.

• Deep understanding of experimentation, statistical modelling, and advanced analytics.

• Hands-on experience with MLOps practices, cloud environments (AWS or Azure), and classical ML model deployment.

• Proficiency in Python, SQL, and modern data science tools/platforms.

• Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to simplify complex insights into strategic recommendations.

• Experience with AWS AI tools (SageMaker, Bedrock, Lambda).

• Familiarity with low/no-code platforms.

• Knowledge of ethical AI frameworks and responsible innovation practices.

• Scalable, high-impact data science solutions delivering measurable business value.

• Widespread adoption of AI/ML and self-serve analytics across teams.

• A strong, respected AI Centre of Excellence at the heart of business decision-making.

• A world-class, continuously evolving data science team.

• Governance frameworks that ensure AI is safe, secure, and ethical.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of AI and analytics in a fast-moving corporate environment. You'll have the autonomy, executive backing, and resources to innovate at scale - building something transformative and lasting. You'll also receive a competitive salary with bonus/pension/private healthcare.

Ready to lead the next generation of data-driven innovation?
Apply now to take the reins of our AI and data science strategy.

Job Reference: compass/TP 195431