Lead Data Scientist

Data Science Festival; City of London; Hybrid; GBP 115,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology distributor in London is seeking a Lead Data Scientist to act as the senior technical expert within the team. You will deliver high-impact models, set technical standards, and lead complex projects. This hands-on role requires expertise in Python and SQL, experience in cloud environments, and the ability to mentor others. If you thrive on technical challenges and enjoy influencing decisions in a collaborative environment, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience building, validating, and deploying machine learning models into production.
• Strong hands‑on Python and SQL skills.
• Experience working in cloud environments (GCP preferred).
• Deep understanding of experimentation, evaluation, and scalable ML design.
• Ability to mentor others and influence technical direction without formal line management.

Responsibilities

• Act as the senior technical expert within the team.
• Deliver high-impact models and set technical standards.
• Lead complex projects through to production.
• Collaborate closely with the Head of Data Science.
• Shape technical approach and advise on best practices.

Skills

Machine learning model development

Python

SQL

Cloud environments (GCP preferred)

Mentoring and influencing

Job description

Lead Data Scientist

Salary: £115,000 – £125,000

Location: London/Hybrid

Data Idols are partnered with a leading technology distributor that is continuing to invest heavily in data. They are looking for a Lead Data Scientist who can act as the senior technical expert within the team, someone who delivers high-impact models, sets technical standards, and leads complex projects through to production.

The Opportunity

As a Lead Data Scientist, you’ll be the go-to technical authority, taking ownership of challenging modelling work and driving end-to-end delivery. You’ll work deeply hands‑on, developing advanced models, improving existing pipelines, and ensuring solutions are scalable and production‑ready.

You’ll collaborate closely with the Head of Data Science, shaping the technical approach, advising on best practices, and leading major initiatives. While not a people manager, you will support and mentor others by setting the bar for technical excellence and helping guide their development.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives as a senior IC and wants to stay close to the code and modelling while having a strong voice in technical decision‑making.

Skills and Experience

• Extensive experience building, validating, and deploying machine learning models into production
• Strong hands‑on Python and SQL skills
• Experience working in cloud environments (GCP preferred)
• Deep understanding of experimentation, evaluation, and scalable ML design
• Ability to mentor others and influence technical direction without formal line management

If you’re looking for a role where you can remain hands‑on while owning major technical challenges, please submit your CV for initial screening.