Head of Data Science

Description

Head of Data Science

Purpose

Were entering a new era where AI is no longer experimental - its operational embedded and transformative. From large-scale machine learning to generative AI and intelligent automation data science is now central to how we innovate compete and deliver value.

As Head of Data Science you will define and lead our data science vision - translating cutting-edge AI capabilities into real-world business impact. Youll shape how advanced analytics ML and emerging AI technologies are applied across the organisation ensuring we move beyond pilots into scaled production-grade AI solutions.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a talented and ambitious team while directly influencing strategic outcomes - turning data into decisions and models into measurable value.

Location

We operate a hybrid working model. This role will require a flexible approach to attending one of our offices with an expectation of being on-site approximately 12 days per week depending on business needs meetings and key stakeholder engagement.

Whats in it for you

• Up to 115000
• 15% bonus
• Work Life Smarter our commitment to a flexible and hybrid working culture
• Generous pension scheme starting at 6% rising to 10%
• A unique wellbeing programme that looks after the whole you
• Access to multiple learning platforms to support your individual development
• Active and diverse networks that build community support wellbeing and advocate for change
• A comprehensive set of benefits including discounts on big brands gymflex memberships and paid volunteering leave - see our full list of benefitshere.

Plus youll play an integral role in protecting the commercial value of Arqivas sites - a critical part of how we deliver for our customers.

Accountabilities

Set the direction

• Define and lead a forward-looking data science and AI strategy aligned to business priorities
• Partner with senior stakeholders to translate ambition into clear investable roadmaps
• Identify where emerging AI capabilities - such as generative AI foundation models and intelligent agents - can unlock competitive advantage

Deliver measurable business impact

• Lead the development of advanced analytics machine learning and AI solutions that solve complex business problems
• Ensure solutions are production-ready scalable and embedded into business workflows
• Oversee the full lifecycle - from problem shaping through to deployment and value realisation
• Drive adoption of modern practices such as MLOps model monitoring and responsible AI governance

Develop and lead a high-performing team

• Develop mentor and inspire a team of data scientists and ML engineers
• Foster a culture of experimentation continuous learning and applied innovation
• Set a high-performance bar - focused on outcomes impact and measurable value

Champion AI across the organisation

• Act as a trusted advisor and translator between technical and business audiences
• Promote best practice in data ethics AI governance and model transparency
• Stay at the forefront of industry developments - bringing in new tools platforms and ways of working

Skills/ Experience

• Proven experience leading and developing data science teams creating an environment where people can learn grow and deliver value.
• A track record of delivering AI and machine learning solutions that have achieved measurable business outcomes not just technical proofs of concept.
• Deep hands-on expertise across machine learning advanced analytics and modern data platforms (e.g. Databricks Snowflake) with the ability to contribute directly when needed.
• Practical experience taking models from experimentation to production with a strong understanding of what works what doesnt and the trade-offs involved in delivering AI at scale.
• Experience operationalising models using robust engineering MLOps and model governance practices.
• Strong knowledge of emerging AI technologies including large language models generative AI and agentic AI combined with the judgement to separate genuine opportunities from hype.
• The ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on delivery helping teams solve complex problems and overcome technical obstacles.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at executive level and translate technical complexity into clear business outcomes and action.

Our Tech Stack

Youll be joining a team that has invested heavily in a modern cloud-native data and AI platform. We build on Databricks Lakehouse and AWS using technologies such as Python PySpark dbt MLflow Unity Catalog and modern CI/CD practices to take ideas from experimentation to production.

Our data scientists work alongside data engineers architects and product teams on a shared platform with access to the tooling needed to develop machine learning generative AI and agentic AI solutions at enterprise scale.

Our Commitment

We believe great data science goes beyond algorithms. It requires curiosity collaboration and responsibility. Youll play a key role in ensuring we use data and AI in a way that is ethical transparent and trusted.

Why Arqiva:

We enable a switched-on world to flow. As the UKs leader in TV and radio broadcast and the countrys top smart utilities platform we are shaping the future of connectivity.

Our infrastructure delivers media and data exactly wheretheyreneeded-whetherthatsbringing TV and radio to your home or sending smart meter data to your utility provider. Our technology works quietly behind the scenes connecting millions every day.

Butitsnot just what we doitshow we do Arqivayoullfind real connection: supportive teams active colleaguenetworksand plenty of ways to get involved and feel part of our you the space and support togrow-whetherthatsdevelopingyour skills trying something new or taking on fresh because there is more to life than work our rewards and benefits are designed to support your wellbeing yourlifestyleand what matters most to you.

Our commitment toDiversity & Inclusion

At Arqivawerecommitted to building a workplace where everyone feels valued heard and empowered to succeed. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences and we work hard to remove barriers so every colleague can thrive. If you need any adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process please reach out to

If this sounds like the right next step for youwedlove to hear from you!

#LI-KM1

Required Experience:

Director

Employment Type : Full-Time
Experience: years
Vacancy: 1