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Data Science Capability Lead

Financial Conduct Authority
Edinburgh
3 months ago
Applications closed

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Data Science Capability Lead

Division– Data, Technology & Innovation (DTI)

Department– Advanced Analytics

Salary– National – ranging from £59,100 – £80,000 and London from £64,900 – £90,000 per annum (salary offered will be based on skills and experience)

About the FCA

The FCA regulates the conduct of 45,000 firms in the UK to ensure our financial markets are honest, fair and competitive. Follow this link to find out moreAbout the FCA.

The Team/Department

The FCA’s Advanced Analytics department is seeking a Data Science Capability Lead, a pivotal role focused on developing and enhancing data science skills across the organisation. This position is crucial for nurturing a culture of continuous learning and elevating the technical and strategic capabilities of data scientists.

What will you be doing?

  • Leading hackathon-style events:Manage events across Advanced Analytics and the wider FCA to identify and develop cutting-edge data science techniques. These hackathons focus on creating rapid proof-of-concepts that explore innovative approaches and deliver actionable data.

  • Leading the Data Bootcamp Programme:Oversee the upskilling of approximately 60-100 managers and technical specialists annually in data analytics and insights. This programme is designed to deliver targeted, impactful learning experiences that enhance understanding of data tools and methodologies.

  • Overseeing learning and knowledge-sharing opportunities:Manage an internal suite of initiatives such as mentoring, reverse mentoring, Journal Clubs, and Kaggle competitions to foster a culture of continuous professional development.

  • Fostering data science community development:Create and maintain a vibrant data science community within the organisation, encouraging collaboration and sharing best practices.

  • Supporting the graduate pipeline:Facilitate the integration and growth of graduates within the organisation by providing mentorship and structured learning opportunities.

  • Ensuring effective tools and processes:Ensure that data scientists have the necessary tools and processes to perform their roles effectively, collaborating with the management team to enhance efficiency.

Which skills are required?

Minimum

  • Data Science expertise – Strong working knowledge of data science methodologies, analytics tools, and statistical techniques.

  • Leadership & mentorship – Proven experience in mentoring and coaching data scientists or analysts.

  • Stakeholder engagement – Ability to collaborate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Essential

  • Programme & event management – Experience in planning and running large-scale learning initiatives.

  • Project delivery – Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.

  • Supporting graduate & early career talent – Experience in mentoring or integrating graduates into data teams.

  • Building & nurturing a data science community – Demonstrated success in fostering collaboration among data scientists.

  • Optimising data science tools & processes – Track record of improving the efficiency of data science workflows.

  • Hands-on technical proficiency – Experience with Python, R, SQL, or other relevant data science tools.

  • Experience in regulatory environment – Understanding of data science applications within regulatory, financial, or governmental contexts.

  • Knowledge of AI & Machine Learning – Familiarity with emerging trends in AI, ML, and their practical applications.

Benefits of working at the FCA

  • 25 days holiday per year plus bank holidays.

  • Hybrid working (work from home up to 60% of your time).

  • Private healthcare with Bupa.

  • A non-contributory Pension of at least 8%.

  • Life assurance.

  • Income protection.

We welcome applications from candidates who are looking for flexible arrangements.

Application Support

We are dedicated to removing barriers and ensuring our application process is accessible to everyone.

Useful Information and Timeline

  • Advert closing date: Sunday 30th March.

  • CV review/shortlist: w/c 31st March.

  • Interview to assess technical capability and core skills: w/c 7th April.

Got a question?

If you are interested in learning more about the role, please contact: Melanie Dubock at

Applications must be submitted through our online portal. Applications sent via email will not be accepted.

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