Data Science Lead

We are looking for an experienced Data Science Lead to join our fast-growing technology team. This role is perfect for someone who is not only an expert in designing and developing cutting-edge AI/ML models but is also excited about applying their skills to tackle society's most pressing challenges. In this role, you will take the lead in advancing our AI/ML capabilities, working alongside engineers, researchers, product and project managers to shape the future of our AI-driven products and projects.

As a Data Science Lead, you'll be a core member of our AlmaX team, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, exploring ad hoc projects, enhancing existing tools, and championing a human-centric AI philosophy. You will be responsible for the full lifecycle of AI/ML model development: from research and prototyping to deployment, monitoring, and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate for this role is an ambitious data science expert with a proven track record in building scalable, reliable AI/ML models. You'll thrive in a technical leadership role, helping to develop both the technical capabilities and career progression of the data scientists and engineers you work with. We're looking for a communicator who can clearly explain complex AI/ML concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, while inspiring your team to push the boundaries of AI research and application.

We are looking for a Data Science Lead to take responsibility for the research, development, deployment, and maintenance of AI/ML models that power our most impactful solutions. As part of our mission, you'll work on diverse projects, combining statistical rigor with intuitive AI solutions that empower users. You'll collaborate closely with engineers, researchers, and policy specialists, playing a pivotal role in crafting tools that are as intuitive as they are powerful. If you're an intrapreneurial thinker eager to mentor a team and build transformative solutions, we'd love to have you onboard., · Lead the design, development, and deployment of scalable, high-impact AI/ML models to address critical challenges.

· Guide and mentor a team of data scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

· Stay ahead of the latest AI/ML advancements and incorporate emerging technologies into our products and processes.

· Manage the full AI/ML lifecycle, from data preprocessing and model development to operationalisation and monitoring in production environments.

· Implement and oversee MLOps frameworks to ensure the smooth deployment, monitoring, and maintenance of models.

· Collaborate closely with the Managing Director, Product Managers, and Engineering Manager to align AI/ML initiatives with organisational goals.

· Ensure AI/ML models are developed with a focus on fairness, transparency, and ethical considerations.

· Present findings and recommendations to senior management, advocating for AI/ML-driven solutions across the company.

· Vocal: You challenge ideas constructively and commit to a direction once a decision is made.

· Innovative: You are always looking to improve and expand our AI/ML capabilities.

· Curious: You have a passion for learning and advancing your technical skills.

· Respectful: You have a collaborative attitude and excel at working in a team environment.

· Purpose-driven: You want to apply AI and data science to projects that matter.

Requirements

· Substantial experience in data science and AI/ML, with a focus on model development and deployment.

· Strong understanding of machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, and predictive modeling techniques.

· Proficiency in Python and data science libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or similar frameworks.

· Experience with AI/ML applications in areas such as natural language processing, recommendations systems, or predictive analytics.

· Experience with MLOps and deploying models in production environments using tools such as Docker, Kubernetes, or cloud-based services (ideally Google Cloud).

· Proven experience leading or guiding a team of data scientists or AI/ML/Software engineers, though we welcome applications from experienced data scientists without management experience as well.

· Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex AI/ML concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

· Fluent in English., · Familiarity with data engineering tools and techniques for preparing large datasets for AI/ML model input.

· Knowledge of cloud-based machine learning services (e.g., Google Cloud AI, AWS Sagemaker).

· Experience with data visualization tools and techniques to communicate AI/ML results effectively.

Alma Economics combines unparalleled analytical expertise with the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.

We are a team of economists, social researchers, data scientists, developers and creatives working together on critical issues facing our society today. Our work spans multiple policy areas, including education, health and social care, housing and homelessness, the environment, public finance, and international development, among others.

Our diverse staff combine decades of experience in economic and social research at the highest levels with the ability to develop state-of-the-art tech tools and powerful communications.

We work with some of the most forward-thinking organisations in the voluntary, public, and private sectors. Our clients include most UK government departments, the Welsh Government, the Scottish Government, councils across the country, arms-length bodies, and several leading charities.

Internationally, we work with major supranational organisations including the World Bank, UNICEF, the WHO, the OECD, and the European Commission, as well as a number of national governments in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia., Alma Economics is a friendly and informal place, and our offices are designed for both work and play. We enjoy working from the office as we foster a strong culture within modern and fun spaces, allowing for casual catch ups, mentoring, brainstorming and teambuilding.

We do not have a one-size-fits-all WfH policy. Most staff members work from home for one or two days during a typical week, while it is also possible to arrange to WfH for more extended periods (e.g., 2-4 weeks) to visit family or travel.

While most staff work 5-day weeks, for most full-time positions we also offer the option of a 4-day working week, either from day one or as an arrangement employees can transition into later in their Alma career.

Our offices are disabled-accessible, and we are committed to providing all necessary support to colleagues that require it, but we are also happy to consider remote working arrangements for applicants with disabilities or health conditions that prevent them from working on-site.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and ensure that no one receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, gender, sexual orientation, disability or physical condition, marital status, race, or religion.

Check out more employment opportunities at Alma Economics and our tips for applicants here: www.almaeconomics.com/tips-for-applicants