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Head of Data Science

Compass Group UK & Ireland
Birmingham
1 week ago
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Location: Birmingham or "Hybrid / Flexible"

Salary: Competitive + Bonus + Benefits

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Lead the future of AI and data-driven innovation.

We’re looking for a visionary and hands-on Head of Data Science to define and execute our enterprise-wide data science strategy. You’ll drive the adoption of Generative AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics across all business sectors, building the capabilities, team, and infrastructure to unlock high-impact, scalable innovation.

What You’ll Be DoingShape Strategy & Lead Innovation

  • Define and deliver the data science vision, spanning GenAI, ML, and advanced analytics.
  • Establish an AI Centre of Excellence to embed a data-first culture across the business.
  • Be the senior voice on AI in leadership forums — shaping how data science drives strategic value.


Build GenAI & ML Solutions

  • Deliver enterprise-scale GenAI apps (e.g. virtual assistants, copilots, RAG systems).
  • Develop robust LLMOps pipelines for scalable AI deployment and governance.
  • Lead classical ML initiatives alongside engineering teams — from training to monitoring.
  • Stay ahead of emerging trends in AI/ML to inform technology adoption.


Enable Data-Driven Decision Making

  • Build tooling and frameworks for experimentation, A/B testing, and predictive modelling.
  • Define ethical and governance standards for responsible AI use.


Lead & Scale the Team

  • Build and mentor a high-performing data science function embedded in product and business teams.
  • Define team structure, tooling, and hiring roadmap to scale capability and impact.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to commercial, product, finance, and marketing leaders.


Your ProfileYou’ll Bring:

  • Proven experience leading enterprise data science teams in complex or product-led environments.
  • A track record of delivering GenAI solutions using LLMs, prompt engineering, and RAG architectures.
  • Deep understanding of experimentation, statistical modelling, and advanced analytics.
  • Hands-on experience with MLOps practices, cloud environments (AWS or Azure), and classical ML model deployment.
  • Proficiency in Python, SQL, and modern data science tools/platforms.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to simplify complex insights into strategic recommendations.


Bonus Points For:

  • Experience with AWS AI tools (SageMaker, Bedrock, Lambda).
  • Familiarity with low/no-code platforms.
  • Knowledge of ethical AI frameworks and responsible innovation practices.


What Success Looks Like

  • Scalable, high-impact data science solutions delivering measurable business value.
  • Widespread adoption of AI/ML and self-serve analytics across teams.
  • A strong, respected AI Centre of Excellence at the heart of business decision-making.
  • A world-class, continuously evolving data science team.
  • Governance frameworks that ensure AI is safe, secure, and ethical.


Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of AI and analytics in a fast-moving corporate environment. You’ll have the autonomy, executive backing, and resources to innovate at scale — building something transformative and lasting. You'll also receive a competitive salary with bonus/pension/private healthcare.

Ready to lead the next generation of data-driven innovation?

Apply now to take the reins of our AI and data science strategy.Seniority level

  • Seniority levelExecutive

Employment type

  • Employment typeFull-time

Job function

  • Job functionEngineering and Information Technology
  • IndustriesFood and Beverage Services

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