Head of Data Science and AI

Head of Data Science and AI (SC) | 12-Month Contract (Somerset, Hybrid)

📍Location:Commutable from Bristol (Somerset) - Hybrid

⏳Contract:12 Months

💰Day Rate:Competitive - Inside IR35

🏢Industry:Government Defence | Data | AI & Machine Learning

🔐Security Clearance:ActiveSC clearance preferredbut not essential—candidates must beeligible for clearance.

The Opportunity

Our client, aleading Data enabler in the government defence sector, is seeking an experiencedHead of Data Science and AIto drive AI innovation, automation, and data science strategy. This high-impact role will lead a team of data scientists and work closely with senior stakeholders tooperationalise machine learning, enhance automation, and ensure responsible AI governance.

This is anexciting opportunity to shape the future of AI and data sciencewithin a Microsoft-centric technology environment usingAzurecloud solutions.

Key Responsibilities

🔹 Develop and execute theAI and Data Science strategy, delivering efficiency and customer benefits.

🔹 Lead and mentor a team of data scientists, overseeingtechnical direction, skill development, and project execution.

🔹 Work with senior stakeholders and executives to align AI initiatives with business objectives.

🔹 OverseeAI governance, ensuring compliance with government and defence standards.

🔹 Stay up to date with industry advancements and emerging AI applications.

🔹 Collaborate with external partners, including other government agencies and industry bodies.

🔹 Providetechnical leadership on machine learning deployment, MLOps, and model performance monitoring.

Key Requirements

✅Expertise in Data Science & Machine Learning, including supervised/unsupervised learning, deep learning, and generative AI.

✅ Strong understanding ofAI ethics, responsible AI practices, and data governance.

✅Technical proficiencyin Python, R, or C++ with experience in AI model deployment.

✅ Experience working withAzure cloud-based data solutions and Microsoft enterprise environments.

✅ Proven track record inleading data science teams, developing capabilities, and driving AI adoption.

✅ Ability toengage with senior stakeholders, influence strategy, and communicate complex AI concepts.

✅ Experience ingovernment, defence, or highly regulated industriesis highly desirable.

Why Apply?

🚀Impactful Role– Shape the AI & Data Science strategy for a major government SaaS client.

💡Cutting-Edge AI– Work withAzure AI & ML technologiesin a Microsoft enterprise environment.

🏡Flexible Working– Hybrid role with a mix ofremote and on-site workin Somerset.

📈High-Profile Exposure– Work with senior executives and government stakeholders.

If you’re adata science leaderwith a passion for AI and automation, we want to hear from you. Apply today or reach out for a confidential discussion.