Head of Data Science & AI

Head of Data Science & AI - Perm Role - Remote (UK) - Salary Upto £120K + Bonus

Our global management consultancy is seeking a visionary Head of Data Science & AI to lead the data and AI-driven transformation of our organization and client solutions. As the Head of Data Science & AI.

You will leverage technologies such as Databricks, PySpark, Azure Data Factory, Knowledge Graphs, Power BI, and SSRS to enhance decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and enable AI integration across the firm. Your leadership will foster collaboration with senior management and key stakeholders, ensuring that data-driven solutions align with the company's strategic objectives and drive client success.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Data Strategy & Governance:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive data strategy that aligns with the company’s objectives, focusing on creating a unified data ecosystem across all global operations.
• Oversee the design and execution of data governance frameworks, ensuring compliance, data quality, and security at all levels of the data lifecycle.
• Lead the adoption of best practices for data management and data governance, ensuring that all data-related activities align with industry standards and legal requirements.

2. AI & Data Science Integration:

• Spearhead the integration of AI technologies and machine learning models to enhance business processes, improve client outcomes, and create new revenue opportunities.
• Lead the development of AI-driven analytics solutions that address business challenges, providing insights that influence strategic decision-making at the global level.
• Oversee the implementation of advanced machine learning algorithms, predictive models, and automation tools to drive both internal and client-facing solutions.

3. Data Analytics & Reporting:

• Lead the creation and deployment of actionable reporting and data visualization solutions, utilizing Power BI and SSRS to enable real-time business insights for clients and internal stakeholders.
• Design and manage global dashboards and analytics reports that provide key performance indicators (KPIs), trends, and actionable insights across business units.
• Work closely with consulting teams to translate client needs into effective data solutions, enabling data-driven recommendations in a consultative manner.

4. Platform Integration & Optimization:

• Oversee the integration of key data platforms, including Databricks, PySpark, Azure Data Factory, and Knowledge Graphs, ensuring they are utilized to their full potential across global data initiatives.
• Optimize data pipelines, ETL processes, and analytics workflows to enhance system performance, scalability, and efficiency in cloud-based environments.
• Ensure the effective and efficient utilization of data technologies, integrating them across various business units to deliver business value.

5. Leadership & Team Development:

• Manage and mentor a high-performing, global team of data scientists, engineers, and analysts to build a collaborative, data-driven culture.
• Lead recruitment efforts, foster professional development, and establish a strong culture of innovation, ensuring the team stays at the forefront of data science and AI trends.
• Collaborate with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to align data and AI projects with broader company and client goals, ensuring strategic objectives are met.

6. Client Engagement & Consultative Approach:

• Lead the development of customized data and AI solutions for clients across various industries, tailoring approaches to each client’s unique needs and challenges.
• Act as a subject matter expert, delivering strategic insights and recommendations to clients based on data-driven analysis.
• Work closely with client-facing teams to drive the adoption of data solutions, supporting client relationships with technical expertise and thought leadership.

7. Global Collaboration & Cross-Functional Alignment:

• Collaborate with global leadership and consulting teams to align data initiatives with company objectives and client demands.
• Ensure cross-functional coordination between data science, analytics, IT, and business teams to drive successful implementation of data and AI solutions.
• Act as a key liaison between technical teams and non-technical stakeholders, bridging the gap between business goals and data-driven solutions.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Must have experience as a Data Architect.
• Databricks (big data analytics and machine learning platform)
• PySpark (distributed data processing for large datasets)
• Knowledge Graphs (for advanced data relationships and insights)
• Power BI and SSRS (business intelligence, reporting, and visualization tools)
• Azure Data Factory (cloud data integration and ETL solutions)
• Advanced AI and Machine Learning techniques (including supervised, unsupervised learning, NLP, deep learning)
• Strong understanding of data architecture, ETL processes, and data integration frameworks.
• Proven experience in leading global teams, managing complex data-driven projects, and working in cross-functional environments.
• Expertise in data governance, data security, and compliance best practices across global operations.
• Experience with cloud computing platforms, especially Azure, and managing cloud-based data ecosystems.
• Deep knowledge of advanced analytics, data modeling, and AI-driven solutions across diverse industries.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree Master’s in Data Science, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven track record of successfully leading large-scale AI and data initiatives for global clients.
• Experience working in a global management consultancy or similar advisory environment.